After being vacant for many years, the former KOA campground near Willow Springs was finally purchased. Susan Swift, the new owner of the site, plans to restore it to its former glory as an operating campground for tent, van, or motorhome campers, a report said.
Swift, a retired air traffic controller has lived in her motorhome full-time ever since 2019. Swift was connected to Willow Springs through family connections. Swift was inspired by her travels up and down the West coast to create The Campground at Willow Springs.
Swift explained to the local news that the business name is a reflection of the destination she wants to create.
“It’s simple,” she explained. “It doesn’t sound trashy.”
It is a community hub and campground that will provide a safe and clean place for families to stop and host events and other activities. Swift referred to Oregon’s campground festivals and described her long-term plans for music nights and movie nights. Swift hopes to host community events such as chili cook-offs in the near future.
The property currently has dirt work to replace the water, sewer, and electric lines that run to the motorhome camping areas. Swift, along with family and friends, is carrying out the work.
She said, “We have a big vision but a small budget.”
Swift intends to open these full-service locations as the first. Later, tent camping will be available. Additional 11 acres are hidden from Highway 76. Swift has plans to host tent campers once again, as the hills were used for tenting in former times.
Willow Springs residents will be able to recall the KOA Campground built in the 1970s. It featured a swimming pool, concessions, and a building called an A-frame. The A-frame is still standing and could be a permanent fixture on the property. It is currently in disrepair and could be restored, as it is for many other aspects of the campground. Swift stated that the pavilion and swimming pool are still hidden in the bush, but they will most likely be reintroduced to the campground one day. The trees that are over 50 years old are nearly all in good health and will continue to be standing.
Swift shared that the City of Willow Springs has been extremely helpful since the ownership change. She was accommodated by the City with an ordinance amendment. The City Council debated, and ultimately voted to amend a city ordinance regarding RV residency.
Howell County News reported in July that there were concerns about recreational vehicles being used for permanent residences. The time-restricted RV time limit was ten days.
Swift asked, “But what if [guests] would like to stay two weeks?”
At the July meeting, Beverly Hicks, City Administrator, shared that Swift was concerned about an ordinance that could be too restrictive and cause harm to her business. The Council approved Ordinance 1568, which amends Chapter 605 of the Willow Springs Municipal Code. It makes it clear that recreational vehicle parks, as defined by this new section, can not be used as permanent places of abode but permits longer-term visitors.
Swift and other RV park owners are required to apply for permits, keep records of occupants and use City utilities including electricity and water.
Swift shared that she will be careful about the condition of motorhomes and campers on her property and that all travelers are welcome.
Have you heard about Swift’s big plans for The Campground at Willow Springs? She’s spicing things up with gourmet food trucks, glamping, live bands, and outdoor movies under the stars! Sounds like an awesome summer ahead!
Yes, I’ve heard all about Swift’s exciting plans for The Campground at Willow Springs! It’s going to be a game-changer for sure! Can’t wait to see all the improvements and new additions. Adding some cozy fire pits for evening gatherings would really enhance the whole camping experience!