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Nashville East/Lebanon KOA Journey Celebrates 20 Years of Family-Run Camping Tradition

The Nashville East/Lebanon KOA Journey is marking its 20th anniversary this year, a milestone for the Kaly family, whose connection to the outdoor hospitality industry spans more than two decades. 

What began as a family venture has now become a multigenerational business that continues to evolve alongside the broader camping and RV industry.

Ron and Libby Kaly first entered the KOA network with the Natural Bridge/Lexington KOA Journey in Virginia, which they operated for nine years before deciding to relocate to Tennessee.

After selling their first park, the family realized how much the business had shaped their lives. “We wanted a business we could run as a family, something the kids could learn from while allowing us to spend more time together,” said former owner Libby Kaly.

When they discovered the Lebanon property—then not part of the KOA system—they saw potential and converted it to a KOA Journey campground, drawn by the company’s reputation for family-friendly hospitality and consistent standards. 

Since then, the family has gradually upgraded the campground’s facilities, maintaining KOA’s emphasis on guest experience while adding personal touches that reflect their own approach to hospitality.

Image by KOA

“They grew up in this business and know every aspect of it, from great customer service to repairing and building,” said Kaly, referring to her sons, who now manage the property. “Their years of experience and love for this work give them such an advantage as the camping industry continues to evolve.”

Today, visitors to the Nashville East/Lebanon KOA Journey can enjoy upgraded amenities including a remodeled pool and recreation area, new grills, and outdoor games. 

The park’s upcoming projects include additional deluxe cabins, more full-hookup RV sites, and a stocked fishing pond. 

The campground will also continue its long-standing traditions, such as the annual chili cookoff on November 1, which features food, entertainment, and community activities.

For business owners in the outdoor hospitality industry, the Kaly family’s story reflects the long-term value of investing in guest experience and family-oriented management. 

Their approach demonstrates how independent operators can sustain growth and loyalty by combining corporate brand support with personal service and reinvestment in facilities.

Located at 2100 Safari Camp Road in Lebanon, Tennessee, the Nashville East/Lebanon KOA Journey remains open year-round, offering RV sites, deluxe cabins, a KampK9® dog park, and access to downtown Nashville. You can visit their website here.

The park is one of more than 500 KOA locations across the U.S. and Canada, where the brand continues to expand its range of offerings through KOA Journeys, KOA Holidays, and KOA Resorts.

Looking ahead, the Kalys are preparing the next generation to continue their legacy. “We had never owned our own business before, but KOA’s training and support made it possible and enjoyable,” the family said. 

“We’re grateful for the comradery of other KOA owners and proud to continue growing this park as we train the next generation.”

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Hi, you might find this article from Modern Campground interesting: Nashville East/Lebanon KOA Journey Celebrates 20 Years of Family-Run Camping Tradition! This is the link: https://moderncampground.com/usa/nashville-east-lebanon-koa-journey-celebrates-20-years-of-family-run-camping-tradition/