April 16, 2025 2 min read
At HEST, we’re all about enhancing the camping experience—and we found a kindred spirit in KOA. With over 500 locations across North America, KOA has been a go-to for campers seeking adventure, comfort, and connection. To celebrate our recent collaboration on the new HEST x KOA Camp Pillow, we caught up with the KOA team to chat about outdoor hospitality, the inspiration behind our custom pillow design, and what makes KOA such a beloved basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts. Here's what they had to say.
What was the inspiration behind the artwork used in the HEST X KOA Pillow?
How would you describe KOA’s brand mission?
What is unique about the KOA experience for campers or first-time visitors?
We are constantly told by first-time visitors that KOA was fun, they felt safe, and were well taken care of. We pride ourselves on the term ‘outdoor hospitality’ and how our yellow shirted staff serve guests.How many KOA’s are in America?
Over 500 across 49 states and 10 provinces
Can you tell us more about the KOA camper? What are they looking for during their time at a KOA?
Hiking, Fishing, and Biking tend to be the top activities that people do at a KOA, but most of the time, KOA serves as a solid basecamp for other outdoor adventures. KOA is the family-friendly, pet-friendly place to gather as a group to celebrate birthdays, retirement, father’s day, Independence day, or tailgate pre & post sporting events!
How did HEST and KOA become brand friends?
KOA met HEST at the Overland Expo part of Outdoor Retailer’s conference and became fast friends after seeing so much overlap in our love for the outdoors, camping, and high quality products!
How much do you think a KOA customer could benefit from a good night’s sleep from HEST when camping/adventuring outdoors?
KOA campers, like any outdoors person, seek the best night’s sleep as they travel away from home. Most of the time, outdoor activities are more strenuous and require a better night’s sleep and HEST’s product line provides this better than any other brand.
With Summer upon us, what are you most excited about when it comes to camping season?
Using our new HESTxKOA camping pillow out in the wild, of course!