Kampgrounds of America (KOA) announced that MacKenzie Powell and Autumn Weimer have acquired the Soo Line Trail/Onamia KOA Journey in Minnesota, with plans to expand camping accommodations, introduce on-site ATV and UTV rentals, and strengthen partnerships with local businesses to support tourism in Mille Lacs County.
The campground, located in Minnesota’s Northwoods, provides direct access to the Soo Line Trail system, a feature the new owners said attracted them to the property.
Powell and Weimer, who grew up participating in outdoor activities including camping, hunting, fishing and off-road riding, said they intend to build on the campground’s existing appeal while expanding its offerings for campers and off-road enthusiasts.
Beginning in 2026, the campground will offer Polaris Adventures ATV and UTV rentals through Ride Soo Line, allowing guests to rent vehicles on-site for access to the surrounding trail network.
The owners also plan to add more campsites, increase the number of full hook-up sites, expand cabin accommodations and plant additional trees to improve shade and privacy throughout the property.
“Because both of us have spent our whole lives in the outdoors, we’re extremely excited to build on what makes this campground special and create a place where guests can enjoy camping, adventure and time outside all in one location,” Autumn Weimer, owner of the Soo Line Trail/Onamia KOA Journey, said in a press release.
“From direct trail access to new rental opportunities and future campground improvements, we’re really looking forward to welcoming both returning and new guests for an unforgettable stay in Minnesota’s Northwoods,” Weimer added.
The Soo Line Trail/Onamia KOA Journey includes 46 campsites with tent camping and 17 full hook-up sites, along with pull-through sites measuring up to 80 feet for larger recreational vehicles and toy haulers.
Guests without RVs can stay in one of five indoor lodging accommodations in the main building, while a new camping cabin is scheduled to be added during the 2026 season.
According to KOA’s annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, campers contributed $66 billion to local economies in 2025, with the average camper spending more than $200 per day while traveling. The report also found that 33% of campers are interested in visiting small towns and 38% are drawn to historic sites, highlighting the potential economic impact of campground tourism on surrounding communities.
They expect the campground to continue contributing to Mille Lacs County by attracting visitors who spend time at grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, fishing charters and other recreation-related businesses.
They also said they are working to build partnerships with local business owners and support community events and charitable initiatives tied to the region’s outdoor recreation sector.
The Soo Line Trail/Onamia KOA Journey is one of more than 500 KOA campgrounds operating across the United States and Canada. Located at 10889 Stevens Road in Onamia, the campground is open from May 1 through Oct. 19.