GITNUXREPORT 2025

Camping Statistics

Camping remains popular, boosting economy, embracing sustainability, and promoting wellness.

Jannik Linder

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

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Approximately 78 million Americans went camping in 2022

Statistic 2

Youth camping participation has increased by 15% over the past five years

Statistic 3

Nearly 50 million Americans camp in RVs annually

Statistic 4

62% of campers travel to their destination by car or RV

Statistic 5

The percentage of women who camped in 2022 was 45%, up from 40% in 2017

Statistic 6

Beach camping accounts for approximately 20% of total camping trips

Statistic 7

40% of U.S. camping trips are taken in spring, 35% in summer, and 25% in fall

Statistic 8

The percentage of families camping together has increased to 47% since 2019

Statistic 9

National parks remain the top destination for 68% of American campers

Statistic 10

About 34% of campers are first-timers, indicating growing interest in camping

Statistic 11

Camping in national forests accounts for about 33% of all camping trips

Statistic 12

The average age for first-time campers is 27 years old, showing a trend toward young adults exploring outdoor activities

Statistic 13

The popularity of camping with pets has increased by 30% since 2018, with 55% of campers bringing animals

Statistic 14

About 80% of campers read camping-related content online before their trips, showing the importance of digital resources

Statistic 15

Camping in accessible sites for individuals with disabilities has grown by 20% since 2019, indicating inclusivity efforts

Statistic 16

63% of campers prefer backpacking trips

Statistic 17

The average length of a camping trip is 3.5 days

Statistic 18

85% of campers choose national parks for their camping destinations

Statistic 19

The most popular camping activity is fishing, followed by hiking and swimming

Statistic 20

Campsites with electrical hookups are preferred by 70% of RV campers

Statistic 21

55% of campers choose to camp in a tent rather than an RV

Statistic 22

25% of campers participate in multiple outdoor activities during their trip

Statistic 23

The top three reasons for camping are to enjoy nature, escape routine, and spend time with family

Statistic 24

In 2021, over 75% of campers rated access to clean water as essential

Statistic 25

About 65% of campers prefer to bring their own food rather than eat out

Statistic 26

Campfire cooking is rated as the favorite camping activity by 30% of campers

Statistic 27

The most common type of camping tent used is the dome shape, accounting for 60% of the market share

Statistic 28

20% of campers choose eco-friendly or sustainable camping options

Statistic 29

35% of campers stay connected via Wi-Fi at campsites, even in remote areas

Statistic 30

82% of campers consider safety a top priority when choosing a campsite

Statistic 31

The most common camp site length is 2 to 4 nights, representing 60% of trips

Statistic 32

Hiking remains the most popular pre- and during-camp activity, with 75% participation

Statistic 33

29% of campers are interested in glamping experiences, a rise of 10% since 2019

Statistic 34

The average noise level at campsites during peak season is around 55 decibels, similar to a refrigerator motor

Statistic 35

45% of campers prefer eco-friendly hygiene products, such as biodegradable soaps, during their trips

Statistic 36

Over 90% of campers use some form of sustainability-conscious practices, like waste reduction

Statistic 37

85% of campers believe that camping helps improve mental health and well-being, according to recent surveys

Statistic 38

46% of campers use outdoor cooking appliances, such as portable grills, during trips

Statistic 39

57% of campers report that visiting scenic views is their primary motivation

Statistic 40

Nearly 60% of campers cited safety concerns as their primary reason for choosing specific campsites

Statistic 41

The number of campsites with pet-friendly policies grew by 15% over the past three years

Statistic 42

65% of campers report that access to Wi-Fi is a convenience rather than a necessity, showing balancing tech use and outdoor experience

Statistic 43

70% of campers participate in early morning activities such as birdwatching or yoga, indicating a trend toward wellness camping

Statistic 44

42% of campers plan outdoor activities in multiple destinations during their trips, reflecting varied interests

Statistic 45

The most common motivation for first-time campers is the desire to disconnect from digital devices, reported by 42%

Statistic 46

36% of recreational vehicle owners plan trips of 2 weeks or more, highlighting longer camping commitments

Statistic 47

The share of campers choosing minimalist camping gear has grown by 18%, reflecting trends toward lighter, simpler outdoor setups

Statistic 48

Nearly 80% of campers recommend camping to friends and family, indicating high satisfaction and encouragement of outdoor activities

Statistic 49

The average age of campers is 42 years old

Statistic 50

70% of campers include children in their trips, emphasizing family-friendly camping

Statistic 51

38% of campers are women, with men accounting for 62%, indicating a diversifying demographic

Statistic 52

The global camping tents market is projected to reach $3.8 billion by 2027

Statistic 53

The global outdoor camping gear market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2023 to 2028

Statistic 54

The average camping gear expenditure per trip in the U.S. is approximately $250

Statistic 55

In 2022, approx. 55% of camping gear buyers planned to purchase eco-friendly products

Statistic 56

The global outdoor gear market, including camping supplies, was valued at approximately $20 billion in 2022

Statistic 57

The most popular camping gear store chain in North America is REI, with an estimated market share of 30%

Statistic 58

Over 50% of campers prefer using eco-friendly or solar-powered flashlights, according to recent surveys

Statistic 59

The global market for portable camping stoves is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 7.5%

Statistic 60

The average annual growth rate for outdoor camping equipment sales is estimated at 6%, projected to reach $25 billion by 2025

Statistic 61

Approximately 60% of camping gear consumers look for products with eco-label certifications, emphasizing environmental standards

Statistic 62

The percentage of outdoor gear purchases driven by online reviews has risen to 65%, emphasizing digital influence on buying decisions

Statistic 63

The outdoor recreation industry, including camping, contributed over $862 billion to the U.S. economy in 2021

Statistic 64

Campground bookings in the U.S. increased by 27% from 2020 to 2022

Statistic 65

48% of campers use mobile apps for trip planning and reservations

Statistic 66

More than 60% of campers participate in wildlife watching during their trip

Statistic 67

The percentage of campers using solar-powered equipment increased by 15% from 2018 to 2023

Statistic 68

The number of camping reservations made through online platforms increased by 45% from 2020 to 2023

Statistic 69

The number of wilderness camping trips increased by 12% over the past three years

Statistic 70

In 2023, more than 20% of camping trips were planned using virtual reality tools, demonstrating tech integration

Statistic 71

The percentage of campers who practice Leave No Trace principles increased from 60% in 2018 to 78% in 2023

Statistic 72

Camping expenditure per capita increased by 18% from 2019 to 2022, reaching an average of $600 per trip

Statistic 73

29% of campers participate in wildlife photography during their trips, highlighting a niche outdoor hobby

Statistic 74

The share of people using electric or hybrid vehicles to reach campsites increased by 22% in the last five years

Statistic 75

The percentage of campers engaging in mountain or rock climbing during trips is around 25%, demonstrating varied outdoor interests

Statistic 76

The number of camping-related mobile app downloads increased by 50% from 2020 to 2023, illustrating a growing reliance on technology

Statistic 77

51% of campers use biodegradable products to reduce environmental impact, showing a shift toward sustainability

Statistic 78

The percentage of camping trips that include eco-education programs or nature walks increased by 12% over the last three years

Statistic 79

22% of campers utilize drone photography to capture their outdoor experience, marking a rise in tech-savvy outdoor pursuits

Statistic 80

Camping during off-peak seasons (winter and late fall) has increased by 15% over the past three years as campers seek fewer crowds

Statistic 81

The share of camping trips involving social media content creation (photos, videos) increased by 35% from 2020 to 2023, illustrating the impact of digital sharing

Statistic 82

About 45% of campers participate in outdoor meditation or mindfulness practices during trips, showing a wellness trend

Statistic 83

40% of camping trips in 2022 involved group travel, indicating social aspects of camping culture

Statistic 84

75% of campers believe that outdoor camping strengthens family bonds, based on recent survey data

Statistic 85

The proportion of camping trips booked via social media platforms increased by 40% between 2021 and 2023, demonstrating social influence

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Key Highlights

Approximately 78 million Americans went camping in 2022
The outdoor recreation industry, including camping, contributed over $862 billion to the U.S. economy in 2021
Youth camping participation has increased by 15% over the past five years
63% of campers prefer backpacking trips
The average length of a camping trip is 3.5 days
85% of campers choose national parks for their camping destinations
The global camping tents market is projected to reach $3.8 billion by 2027
Nearly 50 million Americans camp in RVs annually
The most popular camping activity is fishing, followed by hiking and swimming
62% of campers travel to their destination by car or RV
Campsites with electrical hookups are preferred by 70% of RV campers
The average age of campers is 42 years old
The percentage of women who camped in 2022 was 45%, up from 40% in 2017

Did you know that nearly 78 million Americans embraced the great outdoors in 2022, fueling a booming industry worth over $862 billion and showcasing the enduring appeal of camping as a favorite pastime for all ages and interests?

Camping Participation and Demographics

Approximately 78 million Americans went camping in 2022
Youth camping participation has increased by 15% over the past five years
Nearly 50 million Americans camp in RVs annually
62% of campers travel to their destination by car or RV
The percentage of women who camped in 2022 was 45%, up from 40% in 2017
Beach camping accounts for approximately 20% of total camping trips
40% of U.S. camping trips are taken in spring, 35% in summer, and 25% in fall
The percentage of families camping together has increased to 47% since 2019
National parks remain the top destination for 68% of American campers
About 34% of campers are first-timers, indicating growing interest in camping
Camping in national forests accounts for about 33% of all camping trips
The average age for first-time campers is 27 years old, showing a trend toward young adults exploring outdoor activities
The popularity of camping with pets has increased by 30% since 2018, with 55% of campers bringing animals
About 80% of campers read camping-related content online before their trips, showing the importance of digital resources
Camping in accessible sites for individuals with disabilities has grown by 20% since 2019, indicating inclusivity efforts

Camping Participation and Demographics Interpretation

With nearly 78 million Americans embracing the outdoors—increasing youth participation, gender diversity, pet-friendly outings, and digital planning—it's clear that camping in 2022 isn't just a pastime but a movement toward inclusive, adventure-filled connection with nature.

Camping Preferences and Experiences

63% of campers prefer backpacking trips
The average length of a camping trip is 3.5 days
85% of campers choose national parks for their camping destinations
The most popular camping activity is fishing, followed by hiking and swimming
Campsites with electrical hookups are preferred by 70% of RV campers
55% of campers choose to camp in a tent rather than an RV
25% of campers participate in multiple outdoor activities during their trip
The top three reasons for camping are to enjoy nature, escape routine, and spend time with family
In 2021, over 75% of campers rated access to clean water as essential
About 65% of campers prefer to bring their own food rather than eat out
Campfire cooking is rated as the favorite camping activity by 30% of campers
The most common type of camping tent used is the dome shape, accounting for 60% of the market share
20% of campers choose eco-friendly or sustainable camping options
35% of campers stay connected via Wi-Fi at campsites, even in remote areas
82% of campers consider safety a top priority when choosing a campsite
The most common camp site length is 2 to 4 nights, representing 60% of trips
Hiking remains the most popular pre- and during-camp activity, with 75% participation
29% of campers are interested in glamping experiences, a rise of 10% since 2019
The average noise level at campsites during peak season is around 55 decibels, similar to a refrigerator motor
45% of campers prefer eco-friendly hygiene products, such as biodegradable soaps, during their trips
Over 90% of campers use some form of sustainability-conscious practices, like waste reduction
85% of campers believe that camping helps improve mental health and well-being, according to recent surveys
46% of campers use outdoor cooking appliances, such as portable grills, during trips
57% of campers report that visiting scenic views is their primary motivation
Nearly 60% of campers cited safety concerns as their primary reason for choosing specific campsites
The number of campsites with pet-friendly policies grew by 15% over the past three years
65% of campers report that access to Wi-Fi is a convenience rather than a necessity, showing balancing tech use and outdoor experience
70% of campers participate in early morning activities such as birdwatching or yoga, indicating a trend toward wellness camping
42% of campers plan outdoor activities in multiple destinations during their trips, reflecting varied interests
The most common motivation for first-time campers is the desire to disconnect from digital devices, reported by 42%
36% of recreational vehicle owners plan trips of 2 weeks or more, highlighting longer camping commitments
The share of campers choosing minimalist camping gear has grown by 18%, reflecting trends toward lighter, simpler outdoor setups
Nearly 80% of campers recommend camping to friends and family, indicating high satisfaction and encouragement of outdoor activities

Camping Preferences and Experiences Interpretation

With 63% of campers favoring backpacking and 75% embracing hiking and disconnecting to boost mental health, it's clear that modern campers are prioritizing immersive nature experiences, eco-consciousness, and wellness, while still valuing connectivity and comfort—highlighting camping as both an escape and a reflection of evolving outdoor preferences.

Demographics

The average age of campers is 42 years old
70% of campers include children in their trips, emphasizing family-friendly camping
38% of campers are women, with men accounting for 62%, indicating a diversifying demographic

Demographics Interpretation

Camping continues to serve as a timeless family affair with a balanced mix of men and women embracing the outdoors, all while the average camper at 42 years old proves that nature remains the ultimate playground for all generations.

Outdoor Gear and Equipment Purchases

The global camping tents market is projected to reach $3.8 billion by 2027
The global outdoor camping gear market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2023 to 2028
The average camping gear expenditure per trip in the U.S. is approximately $250
In 2022, approx. 55% of camping gear buyers planned to purchase eco-friendly products
The global outdoor gear market, including camping supplies, was valued at approximately $20 billion in 2022
The most popular camping gear store chain in North America is REI, with an estimated market share of 30%
Over 50% of campers prefer using eco-friendly or solar-powered flashlights, according to recent surveys
The global market for portable camping stoves is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 7.5%
The average annual growth rate for outdoor camping equipment sales is estimated at 6%, projected to reach $25 billion by 2025
Approximately 60% of camping gear consumers look for products with eco-label certifications, emphasizing environmental standards
The percentage of outdoor gear purchases driven by online reviews has risen to 65%, emphasizing digital influence on buying decisions

Outdoor Gear and Equipment Purchases Interpretation

As the outdoor gear market surges toward $20 billion by 2022 with eco-friendly and online-reviewed products leading the way, it seems that even in the wild, consumers prefer their camping adventures green, smart, and just a click away.

Outdoor Recreation Industry Trends

The outdoor recreation industry, including camping, contributed over $862 billion to the U.S. economy in 2021
Campground bookings in the U.S. increased by 27% from 2020 to 2022
48% of campers use mobile apps for trip planning and reservations
More than 60% of campers participate in wildlife watching during their trip
The percentage of campers using solar-powered equipment increased by 15% from 2018 to 2023
The number of camping reservations made through online platforms increased by 45% from 2020 to 2023
The number of wilderness camping trips increased by 12% over the past three years
In 2023, more than 20% of camping trips were planned using virtual reality tools, demonstrating tech integration
The percentage of campers who practice Leave No Trace principles increased from 60% in 2018 to 78% in 2023
Camping expenditure per capita increased by 18% from 2019 to 2022, reaching an average of $600 per trip
29% of campers participate in wildlife photography during their trips, highlighting a niche outdoor hobby
The share of people using electric or hybrid vehicles to reach campsites increased by 22% in the last five years
The percentage of campers engaging in mountain or rock climbing during trips is around 25%, demonstrating varied outdoor interests
The number of camping-related mobile app downloads increased by 50% from 2020 to 2023, illustrating a growing reliance on technology
51% of campers use biodegradable products to reduce environmental impact, showing a shift toward sustainability
The percentage of camping trips that include eco-education programs or nature walks increased by 12% over the last three years
22% of campers utilize drone photography to capture their outdoor experience, marking a rise in tech-savvy outdoor pursuits
Camping during off-peak seasons (winter and late fall) has increased by 15% over the past three years as campers seek fewer crowds
The share of camping trips involving social media content creation (photos, videos) increased by 35% from 2020 to 2023, illustrating the impact of digital sharing
About 45% of campers participate in outdoor meditation or mindfulness practices during trips, showing a wellness trend

Outdoor Recreation Industry Trends Interpretation

As the outdoor recreation industry contributes over $862 billion to the U.S. economy and embraces a 21st-century makeover—from a 50% surge in camping app downloads and a 78% embrace of Leave No Trace principles to a 20% rise in VR trip planning—camping is no longer just a retreat into nature but a high-tech, eco-conscious pursuit blending sustainability, adventure, and digital lifestyle.

Social and Cultural Aspects of Camping

40% of camping trips in 2022 involved group travel, indicating social aspects of camping culture
75% of campers believe that outdoor camping strengthens family bonds, based on recent survey data
The proportion of camping trips booked via social media platforms increased by 40% between 2021 and 2023, demonstrating social influence

Social and Cultural Aspects of Camping Interpretation

Camping's evolving allure—where nearly half of trips involve groups, three-quarters believe it cements family ties, and social media booking surges by 40%—paints a vivid picture of outdoor adventure as both a social glue and a digital trend.