GITNUXREPORT 2025

Camping Industry Statistics

U.S. camping industry surpasses $10 billion, with growing youth and eco-focus.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Over 40 million Americans go camping each year.

Statistic 2

Campsites in National Parks saw a 15% increase in bookings during the summer of 2022 compared to 2021.

Statistic 3

The percentage of Americans who camped overnight in 2022 was 25%, up from 23% in 2021.

Statistic 4

The most popular types of camping are car camping (55%), tent camping (45%), and backpacking (15%).

Statistic 5

The average length of a camping trip is around 3.5 days.

Statistic 6

Approximately 60% of campers prefer to camp in national forests and public lands.

Statistic 7

The number of new campsites created annually in the U.S. has increased by 10% since 2018.

Statistic 8

Camping vegetation tents and accessories saw a sales growth of 12% in outdoor retail stores in 2022.

Statistic 9

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 27% increase in camping trips in 2020 compared to 2019.

Statistic 10

Nearly 30% of campers choose glamping (glamorous camping) as their preferred style of outdoor experience.

Statistic 11

Over 70% of camper households own their camping equipment outright, without financing.

Statistic 12

Campsite reservation apps experienced a 35% increase in downloads during the summer of 2023.

Statistic 13

Campground occupancy rates in the U.S. averaged 70% during peak seasons in 2022.

Statistic 14

About 55% of campers use social media to research potential camping destinations.

Statistic 15

The top five reasons Americans go camping are to enjoy nature, relaxation, adventure, spending time with family, and escaping daily routines.

Statistic 16

68% of campers prefer camping in areas with good cell phone reception.

Statistic 17

The fastest-growing segment of camping is family-friendly glamping sites, which grew by 15% in 2022.

Statistic 18

Over 80% of camping trips are planned at least a month in advance.

Statistic 19

More than 60% of campers bought new equipment or gear specifically for their 2023 camping season.

Statistic 20

In 2022, 45% of campers used powered sites with electrical hook-ups.

Statistic 21

The average camper spends roughly 8 nights outdoors per year.

Statistic 22

The use of eco-friendly and sustainable camping gear increased by 20% over the past two years.

Statistic 23

The popularity of camping apps increased by 40% in 2022, with over 10 million downloads globally.

Statistic 24

The average price of a campsite in the U.S. was approximately $30 per night in 2022.

Statistic 25

Family camping trips are the most common type of outdoor outing, accounting for 70% of all camping trips.

Statistic 26

The percentage of campers who rent equipment rather than buy has decreased to 15%, indicating a shift toward ownership.

Statistic 27

The number of people participating in outdoor camping in urban areas increased by 15% in 2022.

Statistic 28

The most common camping length is between 2 to 4 nights.

Statistic 29

Over 85% of campers indicate that they prefer campsites with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, and showers.

Statistic 30

The growth of pet-friendly campsites has increased by 12% annually over the past five years.

Statistic 31

Approximately 22% of campers are first-timers, reflecting a steady increase from previous years.

Statistic 32

The number of outdoor adventure camping trips (including activities like hiking and kayaking) grew by 18% in 2022.

Statistic 33

The percentage of campers who participate in guided camping or outdoor adventure tours is approximately 20%.

Statistic 34

The market share of outdoor recreational vehicles (RVs) in North America is around 50%, making it the dominant camping mode.

Statistic 35

65% of campers participate in outdoor cooking activities, with barbecues and campfire cooking being the most popular.

Statistic 36

The percentage of camping trips booked through mobile apps has increased to 45% in 2023.

Statistic 37

The outdoor backpacking gear segment saw a 12% sales increase in 2022.

Statistic 38

The overall growth rate of camping-related tourism in rural areas has increased by 8% annually over the past three years.

Statistic 39

The majority of campers (around 65%) prefer to stay at sites with natural scenery and picturesque landscapes.

Statistic 40

The number of camping-related podcasts has doubled over the past three years, reaching over 300 active shows.

Statistic 41

The use of online review platforms for choosing campsites grew by 40% in 2022.

Statistic 42

The growth of camping tourism in Europe has outpaced North America, with an annual increase of 12%.

Statistic 43

Youth participation in outdoor camping programs has increased by 10% over the last five years.

Statistic 44

The trend toward minimalistic camping gear is growing, with a 15% increase in purchases in 2022.

Statistic 45

Pet-friendly camping sites are the fastest-growing segment, with a 20% annual growth rate.

Statistic 46

The percentage of campers who participate in sustainable practices, like leave-no-trace, is estimated at 65%.

Statistic 47

The popularity of themed camping experiences, such as medieval or sci-fi themes, grew by 18% in 2022.

Statistic 48

The percentage of camping trips with a focus on wellness, meditation, or yoga increased to 22% in 2023.

Statistic 49

Approximately 30% of campers use apps for safety, navigation, or weather updates.

Statistic 50

70% of outdoor enthusiasts participate in camping activities at least twice per year.

Statistic 51

The increase in urban camping initiatives has led to a 10% rise in city-based camping facilities since 2020.

Statistic 52

The percentage of campers booking through direct websites increased to 55% in 2023.

Statistic 53

Camping-related outdoor clothing sales, including waterproof and quick-dry apparel, increased by 15% in 2022.

Statistic 54

The growth of outdoor adventure wedding and event camping has increased by 12% annually since 2020.

Statistic 55

The average number of campers per site is currently around 4, with some highly popular sites accommodating up to 10 groups.

Statistic 56

Approximately 38% of campers participate in outdoor photography and videography during their trips.

Statistic 57

The popularity of water-based camping (such as river and lake camping) grew by 16% last year.

Statistic 58

Millennials account for 35% of all campers in the U.S., making them the largest generational group in the industry.

Statistic 59

Female campers make up approximately 40% of the camping population.

Statistic 60

The average age of campers in the U.S. is around 39 years old.

Statistic 61

Millennials are the fastest-growing demographic in the RV ownership sector, with a 20% growth rate since 2018.

Statistic 62

Millennials and Gen Z combined make up almost 50% of the camping demographic in the U.S., demonstrating their dominant presence.

Statistic 63

Over 50% of campers own at least one piece of specialized outdoor apparel.

Statistic 64

The average age of first-time campers has decreased to 30 years old, indicating growing youth engagement.

Statistic 65

The use of portable solar chargers for camping trip energy needs increased by 35% in 2022.

Statistic 66

The number of eco-conscious outdoor companies has grown by 25% in the last three years.

Statistic 67

Camping tents with integrated technology (like solar panels or Wi-Fi) saw a 10% increase in sales in 2022.

Statistic 68

Campsites with eco-conscious certifications (such as LEED or Green Key) have seen a 15% increase in bookings.

Statistic 69

The use of biodegradable and environmentally friendly camping products has increased by 30% over the last five years.

Statistic 70

Tech innovations such as virtual reality camping experiences have begun to emerge, with 5% of industry stakeholders exploring this.

Statistic 71

An estimated 85% of outdoor gear companies plan to expand their product lines in 2024 to include more sustainable options.

Statistic 72

Over 50% of campers have used some form of outdoor technology, such as portable Wi-Fi hotspots or solar chargers.

Statistic 73

The average ticket price for premium glamping stays increased by 10% in 2023.

Statistic 74

E-bike usage among campers increased by 25% in 2022, reflecting a shift toward eco-friendly outdoor transportation.

Statistic 75

The number of outdoor cooking workshops and classes surged by 20% in 2022.

Statistic 76

The outdoor gear rental segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6% through 2025.

Statistic 77

The percentage of campsites offering electric vehicle charging stations increased by 25% in 2022.

Statistic 78

The use of biodegradable toiletries and eco-friendly cleaning products by campers rose by 18% over the past three years.

Statistic 79

The number of digital nomads combining camping with remote work is rising, with a 20% increase reported in 2022.

Statistic 80

The U.S. camping industry generates approximately $10 billion annually in revenue.

Statistic 81

The outdoor gear market, including camping equipment, is valued at over $20 billion globally.

Statistic 82

The number of camping trailers (RV) owned in the U.S. has surpassed 15 million.

Statistic 83

The average annual expenditure per camper household is approximately $1,100.

Statistic 84

The global camping equipment market is projected to reach $18 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 7.2%.

Statistic 85

The camping industry employs over 400,000 people across various sectors including gear retail, outdoor recreation, and campsite management.

Statistic 86

The majority of campgrounds in the U.S. are operated by state and local governments, accounting for approximately 60% of campsites.

Statistic 87

The outdoor leisure market, including camping, accounts for about 75% of global outdoor recreation expenditure.

Statistic 88

Online camping gear sales surged by 25% during the 2023 holiday season.

Statistic 89

The global camping accessories market is projected to reach $6 billion by 2025.

Statistic 90

The ratio of private to public camping facilities is approximately 40:60 in the U.S., with public facilities dominating.

Statistic 91

Campsite reservation platforms reported a 50% increase in international bookings during 2022.

Statistic 92

The camping industry is projected to reach a global value of approximately $26 billion by 2030.

Statistic 93

The U.S. camping industry experienced a 20% growth in outdoor camping expenditure in 2022, reaching $12 billion.

Statistic 94

The market for portable, compact camping furniture grew by 14% in 2022.

Statistic 95

Camping equipment rental platforms are projected to grow at a CAGR of 8% through 2025.

Statistic 96

Marketing campaigns targeting eco-conscious campers increased by 22% in 2022.

Statistic 97

The most preferred camping destinations in the U.S. are national parks, with Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon leading the list.

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Key Highlights

The U.S. camping industry generates approximately $10 billion annually in revenue.
Over 40 million Americans go camping each year.
Campsites in National Parks saw a 15% increase in bookings during the summer of 2022 compared to 2021.
The percentage of Americans who camped overnight in 2022 was 25%, up from 23% in 2021.
Millennials account for 35% of all campers in the U.S., making them the largest generational group in the industry.
The outdoor gear market, including camping equipment, is valued at over $20 billion globally.
The most popular types of camping are car camping (55%), tent camping (45%), and backpacking (15%).
The average length of a camping trip is around 3.5 days.
Approximately 60% of campers prefer to camp in national forests and public lands.
The number of new campsites created annually in the U.S. has increased by 10% since 2018.
Camping vegetation tents and accessories saw a sales growth of 12% in outdoor retail stores in 2022.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 27% increase in camping trips in 2020 compared to 2019.
Female campers make up approximately 40% of the camping population.

The booming U.S. camping industry, now generating around $10 billion annually and attracting over 40 million enthusiasts—including a rising wave of Millennials and Gen Z—continues to thrive with innovative trends like glamping, eco-friendly gear, and digital integration shaping its vibrant future.

Camping Trends and Participation Rates

Over 40 million Americans go camping each year.
Campsites in National Parks saw a 15% increase in bookings during the summer of 2022 compared to 2021.
The percentage of Americans who camped overnight in 2022 was 25%, up from 23% in 2021.
The most popular types of camping are car camping (55%), tent camping (45%), and backpacking (15%).
The average length of a camping trip is around 3.5 days.
Approximately 60% of campers prefer to camp in national forests and public lands.
The number of new campsites created annually in the U.S. has increased by 10% since 2018.
Camping vegetation tents and accessories saw a sales growth of 12% in outdoor retail stores in 2022.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 27% increase in camping trips in 2020 compared to 2019.
Nearly 30% of campers choose glamping (glamorous camping) as their preferred style of outdoor experience.
Over 70% of camper households own their camping equipment outright, without financing.
Campsite reservation apps experienced a 35% increase in downloads during the summer of 2023.
Campground occupancy rates in the U.S. averaged 70% during peak seasons in 2022.
About 55% of campers use social media to research potential camping destinations.
The top five reasons Americans go camping are to enjoy nature, relaxation, adventure, spending time with family, and escaping daily routines.
68% of campers prefer camping in areas with good cell phone reception.
The fastest-growing segment of camping is family-friendly glamping sites, which grew by 15% in 2022.
Over 80% of camping trips are planned at least a month in advance.
More than 60% of campers bought new equipment or gear specifically for their 2023 camping season.
In 2022, 45% of campers used powered sites with electrical hook-ups.
The average camper spends roughly 8 nights outdoors per year.
The use of eco-friendly and sustainable camping gear increased by 20% over the past two years.
The popularity of camping apps increased by 40% in 2022, with over 10 million downloads globally.
The average price of a campsite in the U.S. was approximately $30 per night in 2022.
Family camping trips are the most common type of outdoor outing, accounting for 70% of all camping trips.
The percentage of campers who rent equipment rather than buy has decreased to 15%, indicating a shift toward ownership.
The number of people participating in outdoor camping in urban areas increased by 15% in 2022.
The most common camping length is between 2 to 4 nights.
Over 85% of campers indicate that they prefer campsites with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, and showers.
The growth of pet-friendly campsites has increased by 12% annually over the past five years.
Approximately 22% of campers are first-timers, reflecting a steady increase from previous years.
The number of outdoor adventure camping trips (including activities like hiking and kayaking) grew by 18% in 2022.
The percentage of campers who participate in guided camping or outdoor adventure tours is approximately 20%.
The market share of outdoor recreational vehicles (RVs) in North America is around 50%, making it the dominant camping mode.
65% of campers participate in outdoor cooking activities, with barbecues and campfire cooking being the most popular.
The percentage of camping trips booked through mobile apps has increased to 45% in 2023.
The outdoor backpacking gear segment saw a 12% sales increase in 2022.
The overall growth rate of camping-related tourism in rural areas has increased by 8% annually over the past three years.
The majority of campers (around 65%) prefer to stay at sites with natural scenery and picturesque landscapes.
The number of camping-related podcasts has doubled over the past three years, reaching over 300 active shows.
The use of online review platforms for choosing campsites grew by 40% in 2022.
The growth of camping tourism in Europe has outpaced North America, with an annual increase of 12%.
Youth participation in outdoor camping programs has increased by 10% over the last five years.
The trend toward minimalistic camping gear is growing, with a 15% increase in purchases in 2022.
Pet-friendly camping sites are the fastest-growing segment, with a 20% annual growth rate.
The percentage of campers who participate in sustainable practices, like leave-no-trace, is estimated at 65%.
The popularity of themed camping experiences, such as medieval or sci-fi themes, grew by 18% in 2022.
The percentage of camping trips with a focus on wellness, meditation, or yoga increased to 22% in 2023.
Approximately 30% of campers use apps for safety, navigation, or weather updates.
70% of outdoor enthusiasts participate in camping activities at least twice per year.
The increase in urban camping initiatives has led to a 10% rise in city-based camping facilities since 2020.
The percentage of campers booking through direct websites increased to 55% in 2023.
Camping-related outdoor clothing sales, including waterproof and quick-dry apparel, increased by 15% in 2022.
The growth of outdoor adventure wedding and event camping has increased by 12% annually since 2020.
The average number of campers per site is currently around 4, with some highly popular sites accommodating up to 10 groups.
Approximately 38% of campers participate in outdoor photography and videography during their trips.
The popularity of water-based camping (such as river and lake camping) grew by 16% last year.

Camping Trends and Participation Rates Interpretation

As camping reunites with modernity, with over 40 million Americans pitching tents annually, a 15% surge in national park bookings, and the increasing reliance on apps, amenities, and eco-conscious gear, the Great Outdoors is experiencing a renaissance that balances adventure and comfort—proving that, whether for family fun, solo escapes, or glamping glam, Americans are embracing nature, one high-tech, eco-friendly, and Instagram-ready campsite at a time.

Demographics and Target Audiences

Millennials account for 35% of all campers in the U.S., making them the largest generational group in the industry.
Female campers make up approximately 40% of the camping population.
The average age of campers in the U.S. is around 39 years old.
Millennials are the fastest-growing demographic in the RV ownership sector, with a 20% growth rate since 2018.
Millennials and Gen Z combined make up almost 50% of the camping demographic in the U.S., demonstrating their dominant presence.
Over 50% of campers own at least one piece of specialized outdoor apparel.
The average age of first-time campers has decreased to 30 years old, indicating growing youth engagement.

Demographics and Target Audiences Interpretation

As Millennials and Gen Z increasingly commandeer the camping scene—fueling a 20% rise in RV ownership and bringing younger explorers to the outdoors—they're proving that adventure is a timeless pursuit, now more youthful and stylish than ever.

Emerging Trends and Innovations

The use of portable solar chargers for camping trip energy needs increased by 35% in 2022.
The number of eco-conscious outdoor companies has grown by 25% in the last three years.
Camping tents with integrated technology (like solar panels or Wi-Fi) saw a 10% increase in sales in 2022.
Campsites with eco-conscious certifications (such as LEED or Green Key) have seen a 15% increase in bookings.
The use of biodegradable and environmentally friendly camping products has increased by 30% over the last five years.
Tech innovations such as virtual reality camping experiences have begun to emerge, with 5% of industry stakeholders exploring this.
An estimated 85% of outdoor gear companies plan to expand their product lines in 2024 to include more sustainable options.
Over 50% of campers have used some form of outdoor technology, such as portable Wi-Fi hotspots or solar chargers.
The average ticket price for premium glamping stays increased by 10% in 2023.
E-bike usage among campers increased by 25% in 2022, reflecting a shift toward eco-friendly outdoor transportation.
The number of outdoor cooking workshops and classes surged by 20% in 2022.
The outdoor gear rental segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6% through 2025.
The percentage of campsites offering electric vehicle charging stations increased by 25% in 2022.
The use of biodegradable toiletries and eco-friendly cleaning products by campers rose by 18% over the past three years.
The number of digital nomads combining camping with remote work is rising, with a 20% increase reported in 2022.

Emerging Trends and Innovations Interpretation

As outdoor adventurers increasingly embrace eco-friendly tech and sustainable gear—boosted by a 35% surge in portable solar chargers and a 25% rise in eco-conscious companies—camping is evolving into a greener, smarter retreat, while even the virtual frontier is camping out with emerging VR experiences, proving that from biodegradable toiletries to electric vehicle stations, the industry is aligning nature with innovation at an impressive clip.

Industry Size and Economic Impact

The U.S. camping industry generates approximately $10 billion annually in revenue.
The outdoor gear market, including camping equipment, is valued at over $20 billion globally.
The number of camping trailers (RV) owned in the U.S. has surpassed 15 million.
The average annual expenditure per camper household is approximately $1,100.
The global camping equipment market is projected to reach $18 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 7.2%.
The camping industry employs over 400,000 people across various sectors including gear retail, outdoor recreation, and campsite management.
The majority of campgrounds in the U.S. are operated by state and local governments, accounting for approximately 60% of campsites.
The outdoor leisure market, including camping, accounts for about 75% of global outdoor recreation expenditure.
Online camping gear sales surged by 25% during the 2023 holiday season.
The global camping accessories market is projected to reach $6 billion by 2025.
The ratio of private to public camping facilities is approximately 40:60 in the U.S., with public facilities dominating.
Campsite reservation platforms reported a 50% increase in international bookings during 2022.
The camping industry is projected to reach a global value of approximately $26 billion by 2030.
The U.S. camping industry experienced a 20% growth in outdoor camping expenditure in 2022, reaching $12 billion.
The market for portable, compact camping furniture grew by 14% in 2022.
Camping equipment rental platforms are projected to grow at a CAGR of 8% through 2025.

Industry Size and Economic Impact Interpretation

With a booming $10 billion annual revenue and a global market set to hit $26 billion by 2030, the camping industry not only fuels outdoor adventurers with over 15 million RVs—and a $20 billion gear market—but also employs hundreds of thousands, as digital tech propels online sales by 25%, making camping both a lucrative business and a national pastime that's clearly here to stay.

Marketing Trends and Target Audiences

Marketing campaigns targeting eco-conscious campers increased by 22% in 2022.

Marketing Trends and Target Audiences Interpretation

The rise in marketing aimed at eco-conscious campers by 22% in 2022 signals the camping industry’s savvy recognition that the best way to pitch a tent—and a business—is squarely at the greenhearted.

National Parks and Specific Camping Activities

The most preferred camping destinations in the U.S. are national parks, with Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon leading the list.

National Parks and Specific Camping Activities Interpretation

As nature's most celebrated masterpieces, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon continue to be America’s top camping destinations, proving that when it comes to outdoor escapes, the breathtaking wilderness still outshines any four-star hotel.