Quilly’s Big Fish RV Park, co-owned by Katie McLeod and her father Orrin, has been recognized as a standout in outdoor hospitality, tying for first place in the prestigious Small Park of the Year category at OHCE®2024. Situated in Texas, this charming park is part of the Quilly’s umbrella, which also includes two other campgrounds—another in Texas and one in Mississippi, their success shining across multiple states.
Quilly’s Big Fish RV Park began as a family venture. Katie and her father partnered to purchase their first park in 2021. Within that year, they acquired not one, but three parks, including Quilly’s Big Fish RV Park. The early days were a whirlwind of learning and growth, but their shared passions and goals never wavered.
Reflecting on her journey, Katie spoke about her initial exposure to the broader Outdoor Hospitality Industry. “I went to my first OHCE® in 2023 when it was in Kansas City during the rebrand, and it was amazing. The networking, the education, it was a game-changer for me.” From there, Katie’s involvement deepened, leading her to the George O’Leary National School of Outdoor Hospitality, where she earned a scholarship for attendance.
Owning a small park comes with unique challenges. “We’re more quickly affected by fluctuations in occupancy rates and the economy,” Katie explained, citing rising insurance costs and property taxes as recent hurdles. Yet, it’s the close-knit relationships with guests that make it all worthwhile.
“I know my guests by name, their kids’ names, their grandkids’ names,” Katie said, her voice lighting up as she recounted a warm memory. “There’s a winter Texan who visits every year, her name is Joanne, and this year, she surprised me by arriving early, and seeing her RV pull in made my whole week.” These connections are the heart of Quilly’s Big Fish, creating a sense of family that guests treasure.
Katie’s passion for community extends beyond her park. As president of her local RV Park Council, she spearheads initiatives that make a difference. One standout project partnered with the Girl Scouts to implement a can recycling program. “Recycling in rural Texas is tough, but this program hit two birds with one stone,” Katie said. “The environment benefits, the Girl Scouts gain community service hours, and they earn a little money from the cans. It’s a win-win.”
Through charity events and partnerships, Quilly’s has also raised funds for local causes, showcasing their commitment to their community and beyond. “I hope what stood out to the judges was our dedication, not just to our guests, but to our employees and the entire community,” Katie reflected.
Winning the Small Park of the Year award was a humbling experience for Katie. “Sometimes, it feels like it’s just little old me,” she laughed. “But this recognition shows that all the hard work, the long hours, and the sacrifices are making a difference. We’re truly putting our stamp on the Outdoor Hospitality Industry.”
Katie’s gratitude extends to her team as well. “We’re a small operation, but every person plays a critical role. This award is as much theirs as it is mine.”
As Katie looks to the future, she’s focused on growth and innovation. “I want to keep building my community, expanding our winter Texan program, and implementing more green initiatives,” she shared. With the recent expansion of Quilly’s to 100 sites, the park is set to welcome even more guests while maintaining the personal touch that sets it apart.
Katie’s vision for Quilly’s Big Fish RV Park is clear: a place where guests feel like family, where community thrives, and where every stay is memorable. Her determination and heart make this small park a shining example of what’s possible in outdoor hospitality.
Congratulations to Katie and the team at Quilly’s Big Fish RV Park on this well-deserved honor!
