Fort Collins / Poudre Canyon KOA

They met in 1957 and became instant friends when their German background gave them common ground. They were best men at each other's wedding, and six years ago, Guenter Kippschull and Helmut Roy became business partners.

Guenter and his wife, Theresa own two KOA businesses since 1987. Before that, they owned a bowling alley and would travel in a rented motor home with their kids for a month each year. The camping business appealed to the family aspect of the Kippschull's life, and they traded in their bowling shoes for a yellow KOA shirt.

Working outdoors and working together was a big allure for the couple. Their campgrounds are smaller, and the couple has an active approach to their management. They are particularly proud of the park grounds with the beautiful flowers and inviting pool.

They are also proud of their partnership with the Roys. Helmut used to own and operate an auto repair shop, while his wife, Ann, was a homemaker to their three children. One day Guenter approached Helmut about being a partner. Their close friendship became a close business partnership, and both couples remain the best of friends today.

Helmut and Ann are extremely pleased with the clean, quiet and safe park they oversee at the Fort Collins KOA, while Guenter and Theresa are most happy to offer families a place to build memories at the Fort Collins North KOA. "Families come in, and I think of them planning their vacation and waiting all year to have this special family time," Theresa said. "After all these years, that idea still pleasures me very much."