A new KOA is set to open Aug. 1 near exit 379 on Highway 15 south of Seward.
Alyssa Hendrix, the owner of Lincoln West KOA Holiday, said this project has been in the works since April 1, 2020. Due to issues with COVID-19 and permitting struggles, the KOA began construction on Nov. 1, 2022.
With the park nearing completion, Hendrix said the period between August 2024 and April 2025 will be a period to see what improvements need to be made before next year’s camping season.
The park will be open to the public starting in August, and only those who make reservations and stay at the park will be able to benefit from the amenities, Hendrix said. This KOA will have a swimming pool and spa, a playground with a jumping pillow and other family-oriented games, according to Hendrix.
The park will have seven tent sites, three deluxe cabins that are fully furnished, three camping cabins and 158 full-hookup RV sites, Hendrix said.
Having owned a salon for 16 years, Hendrix said she has had plenty of business experience, but learning about the camping industry and the difficulties with construction has taught her many new things.
“It's been a humongous learning experience for me, but it's been an amazing and really cool development,” Hendrix said. “I've been able to learn and be a part of and understand that side of things a lot more.”
One thing Hendrix is looking forward to is her connection to the Kiwanis Club. Hendrix said she has maintained strong connections to those in the organization and that she plans to keep it that way even with her new business venture.
The first showing of her respect for the group comes with three flags being put at the front entryway.
“Kiwanis has always been an organization that's kind of been dear to my heart for as many years as I've lived here,” Hendrix said. “My previous business was very active in their organization as well, so I wanted them to feature their flags out here.”
On July 24, Kiwanis members brought a KOA flag, a Nebraska flag and an American flag.
“So every RV that's either staying or passing will be able to enjoy what we stand for,” Hendrix said.
Moving forward, Hendrix said she wants to work closer with the community and have plenty of local merchandise available for those coming to the KOA as well as inform guests of places to go within the county.
One local trait the KOA will have from the start is coffee from Neutral Grounds, according to Hendrix.
“This kind of gives the ability to provide more of a welcoming… base for people to really know what Seward County has to offer, so we want to stay all local in a lot of our stuff,” Hendrix said.
