Kampgrounds of America (KOA) marked a major recovery milestone with the grand reopening of Asheville East KOA Holiday, nearly a year after Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage to the property.
The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music, tours, activities, a cookout, and refreshments, welcoming campers and community members back to the riverside destination.
The reopening marks a significant step forward for both KOA and the local outdoor hospitality sector, which faced widespread damage during the storm.
The celebration drew local officials, KOA representatives, and residents who supported the campground’s yearlong recovery effort.
The Asheville East KOA Holiday sustained extensive flooding and erosion during the hurricane, which destroyed nearly every on-site structure.
After months of rebuilding, the campground has reopened with 69 RV sites, 32 tent sites, two camping cabins, and one deluxe cabin available for guests.
“We are deeply grateful to first responders and the local community for their immediate and continued support throughout our recovery,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of KOA.
“This journey has been one of resilience and steady progress, and we are proud to once again provide camping and lodging options that support tourism and connect visitors to the beauty of Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains,” O’Rourke added.
KOA has adopted a phased approach to the property’s full reopening. The first phase includes the front section of the campground, with plans to restore the back section over time.
The campground’s prime location along the Swannanoa River remains central to KOA’s vision of rebuilding a vibrant outdoor destination.
KOA leaders emphasized that the reopening represents more than just infrastructure recovery—it highlights the strength of the local tourism and outdoor hospitality industries. The campground’s restoration is expected to contribute to regional economic growth as travelers return to the area.
“My wife Lisa and I are delighted to be back in Buncombe County, a place close to our hearts where so many friends and family live,” said Doug Wisz, general manager at Asheville East KOA Holiday. “We’re proud to help restore this cherished campground and bring it back to life for everyone to enjoy.”
Local business leaders also underscored the reopening’s symbolic importance for the broader community.
“This represents more than a ribbon-cutting. We see the spirit of resilience that defines our community,” said Cheryl Hyde, executive director of the Black Mountain-Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce.
“The Asheville East KOA Holiday is not only a beloved destination for campers, but also a hub of connection for our region. Its return is a sign of strength and renewal, reminding us that when we come together, we can rebuild, grow, and welcome visitors back to the beauty of the Swannanoa Valley,” Hyde added.
The reopening adds momentum to KOA’s broader recovery and growth strategy across its network of more than 500 open-to-the-public campgrounds in the U.S. and Canada. The company continues to invest in improving campground infrastructure, technology, and guest experiences.
The Asheville East KOA Holiday will operate year-round, offering visitors convenient access to outdoor recreation, local attractions, and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.
Featured image by Asheville East KOA Holiday