HOUSTON, Nov. 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TJO 10×10 Management and Great Escapes RV Resorts are proud to announce that Johanna Mason, General Manager of Jellystone Park Watts Bar Lake in Loudon, Tennessee, has been named the 2026 recipient of OHI’s Outdoor Hospitality Industry Leadership Award.
Presented on November 9 during OHI’s Awards of Excellence at the Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo in Fort Worth, the award recognizes an individual whose leadership, generosity, and commitment have strengthened not only their own organization but the outdoor hospitality industry as a whole.
In presenting the award, OHI described Mason as a leader with an “others-first, solution-driven mindset” who uses her experience to make the people and organizations around her stronger.
“Recognition from OHI speaks to the respect Johanna has earned across this industry, and we couldn’t be prouder to see her honored on a national stage,” said Troy Sheppard, Chief Operating Officer of TJO 10×10 Management. “What sets her apart is how generously she invests in others, from her team at Watts Bar Lake to fellow operators, franchisees, and the students she hopes to bring into this field. She represents the very best of our company and the future of outdoor hospitality.”
Mason’s leadership extends well beyond her own park. She serves as Treasurer of the Yogi Advisory Council, where she represents multi-park operators and helps bring franchisee concerns forward with a focus on progress and workable solutions. She is also an active member of OHI Young Professionals and a trusted resource for fellow General Managers across the industry.
Her commitment to professional development and mentorship has been central to her impact. Mason received scholarships to attend the George O’Leary National School of Outdoor Hospitality for two consecutive years, earned her Outdoor Hospitality Professional designation, and continues to collaborate with fellow participants on ways to support future attendees. OHI has since featured Mason’s National School experience to encourage others to participate in the program.
She is equally passionate about developing the next generation of hospitality professionals. At the University of Tennessee’s Big Orange Hospitality Day, Mason spoke with high school students about careers in campground and resort operations.
Closer to home, she has helped strengthen relationships between Jellystone Park Watts Bar Lake, the City of Loudon, and the broader regional hospitality community, while also supporting local tourism and recreation initiatives.
OHI summarized Mason’s leadership during the presentation:
“Her leadership isn’t limited to a title, a committee, or a single initiative. It’s simply how she operates. She shares what she knows, she makes people feel included, she celebrates others, and leaves teams and communities stronger than she found them.”
“Johanna’s impact on our company and the RV industry is a reflection of who she is as a leader,” said Kelly Edington, Director of RV Operations for TJO 10×10 Management. “She leads with an others-first mindset, always looking for ways to support her team, our company, and the industry as a whole. Perhaps most importantly, she never just brings a problem; she brings a solution.”
TJO 10×10 Management and Great Escapes RV Resorts congratulate Johanna Mason on this well-deserved recognition and celebrate the impact she continues to make on her team, her community, and the outdoor hospitality industry.
About Great Escapes RV Resorts
With 21 premier resorts across 11 states, Houston-based Great Escapes RV Resorts creates outdoor getaways that bring families together. The portfolio spans Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resorts, KOA locations, and Great Escapes RV Resorts, each pairing RV sites, cabins, and glamping with pools, nonstop activities, and themed events built for all ages. Operated by TJO 10×10 Management, Great Escapes is focused on one goal: making every stay the highlight of the year. Plan your next adventure at greatescapesrvresorts.com.
Media Contact:
Marley Tenenholtz
Senior Marketing Manager, Great Escapes RV Resorts
marley@tjo10x10mgmt.com
859.816.9018
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e939d4b4-828e-46a7-a2c2-522cebb02ba1
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