South Padre Island KOA Holiday has been named Kampgrounds of America (KOA) 2026 Owned Asset of KOA (OAK) Campground of the Year, recognizing the South Texas property for outstanding operational performance, guest satisfaction, and innovation across KOA’s company-owned portfolio.
The award was announced at KOA’s annual Convention & Expo in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Managed by General Manager Kristi Cline and Assistant Manager Randy Stene, South Padre Island KOA Holiday demonstrated record results across multiple performance metrics in 2025.
“Kristi and her team have created a true coastal oasis for KOA guests,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of KOA.
“Their commitment to quality, innovation, and guest experience exemplifies the KOA standard of hospitality. They continually exceeded guest expectations, even while managing large capital projects at the campground. This team’s energy and leadership set the bar for operational excellence across our owned portfolio,” O’Rourke added.
Located at the southern tip of Texas, the campground offers views of Laguna Madre Bay, direct beach access, and proximity to attractions including the South Padre Island Birding Center and Sea Turtle, Inc.
In 2025, the campground completed several major development projects aimed at enhancing guest experience and long-term operations.
The property added 22 new waterfront KOA Patio Sites, providing premium RV accommodations with spacious patios, upscale furnishings, full hookups, and landscaped surroundings.
A new recreation building now serves as a community hub, featuring a modern bathhouse, full kitchen, guest laundry, and a small fitness center.
Operational capacity was increased through a new maintenance and office building, which includes staff offices, maintenance areas, and a commercial laundry.
The campground also reinforced its shoreline with a new sea wall, improving both sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
Guest feedback highlighted the park’s clean facilities, attentive service, and welcoming atmosphere.
One reviewer described it as “the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure,” noting that “the staff treats you like family.”
KOA acknowledged the support of regional and development staff in achieving the property’s success, including OAK Regional Vice President Robyn Koromhas, Regional Revenue Manager Corey Wilkinson, Regional Marketing Manager Makenzie Peter, and Development Project Manager Eric Koromhas.
“Even while undertaking a major development project, the South Padre Island KOA Holiday team drove growth in camper nights and improved guest satisfaction,” Jill Currier, senior vice president, OAK operations at KOA, said.
“Their focus on service excellence and performance ensures every guest enjoys the high-quality experience KOA is known for,” Currier added.
The campground hosts over 200 sites, including pull-thru RV sites, Deluxe Cabins, and premium tent options. Amenities include a year-round heated pool, fishing pier, event pavilion, and waterfront recreation rentals.
South Padre Island KOA Holiday is located at 1 Padre Boulevard, South Padre Island, Texas. Additional information is available on the campground’s website.
Featured image by South Padre Island KOA Holiday