The Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday in Ohio is marking its 50th anniversary this September, celebrating a half-century of family-centered outdoor hospitality.
Founded by Leo and Carol Soehnlen, the campground has grown from a former church camp into a year-round destination that continues to welcome generations of campers.
Leo entered the hospitality business after starting his career on a dairy route, delivering ice cream mix to Dairy Queen stores in Northeast Ohio.
In 1968, he purchased an 11-acre former church camp that featured cabins, a dormitory, and a cement pool.
He transformed it into Bear Creek Swim & Toboggan Club, complete with refrigerated twin toboggan slides that became a regional attraction for more than two decades.
Carol joined Leo’s journey in an unexpected way. After a horseback riding accident, she met Leo while recovering in his office.
“While I was waiting in his office with my leg propped up, I started calculating the day’s receipts,” Carol recalled. “Leo was so impressed he decided to keep me around.”
The couple married in 1975, raised five children, and began building a family business together.
In October 1975, the Soehnlens expanded their vision by purchasing a 75-acre farm adjoining the original property.
After spotting an advertisement for Kampgrounds of America (KOA) in a trade magazine, they partnered with the brand and opened the Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday. The location has operated under the KOA flag ever since.
Today, the campground features 100 sites, including six patio sites and 13 cabins and cottages. A five-acre fishing lake anchors the property, which also includes horseback riding and ATV trails spanning 180 acres. Campers have access to mini golf, a game room, a swimming pool, paddleboats, and a KampK9 dog park.
The site also hosts themed family weekends from May through October, providing structured activities that appeal to visitors across generations.
Seasonal programming has become part of the campground’s appeal, drawing repeat guests from across the region.
Expansion continues as demand for outdoor accommodations grows. The Soehnlens are adding 39 new pull-through and patio sites, along with a new playground, laundry facility, and restrooms to serve guests.
The business remains family-run, with daughter Chris, her husband Tom, and their daughters Natalie and Gina now actively involved in daily operations.
Carol said their success has relied on values developed over decades of guest interaction. “Surround yourself with friendly people, be patient, solve problems, and listen before you speak. Love your work, love your guests, and create a place where families can make memories,” she said in a press release.
Featured image by Canton/East Sparta KOA Holiday via koa.com
