GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Camping Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Camping Statistics

  • Approximately 40 million Americans, or 14% of the U.S. population over age six, went camping in 2013.
  • In 2019, 768,000 new households started camping.
  • The South Atlantic region of the U.S. is the most popular region for camping.
  • 63% of camping participants reside in a household that is married.
  • Approximately 36% of campers don't plan their trips more than a month in advance.
  • 10% of American households plan on camping more because of COVID-19.
  • More than four out of five millennial parents went camping three or more times in 2018.
  • Campers who camp with children (38%) are more likely than those who never do so (30%) to camp more.
  • Individuals are 5 times more likely to camp in rural areas than urban areas.
  • Individuals from non-white groups represent 26% of all campers in the United States.
  • 60% of campers participate in multiple outdoor activities.
  • Roughly 70% of all camping nights are in public campgrounds.
  • In Canada, spending on camping gear and in camping grounds amounted to over 1.9 billion CAD in 2018.
  • The United States has a total of 18,006 public and private campgrounds.
  • Approximately 77 million households in the U.S. have someone who camps at least occasionally.
  • Approximately 56% of campers camp most often in public campgrounds.
  • The average distance traveled by campers in the U.S. to their campsite is 186.7 miles.
  • In 2020, 46% of North American campers reported being new to the activity.
  • 35% of campers say that better campground wifi would make them camp more.

Table of Contents

Knowing the details and understanding the trends in camping can enrich your outdoor experience and help you enjoy this popular pastime even more. In this blog post, we will delve into various camping statistics, emphasizing not only the common trends, such as frequency and popular locations, but also exploring the demographic details and shifts in interest over time. Whether you are an avid camper or an outdoor enthusiast with your tent still packed up, these statistics will provide surprising insights into this favorite American pastime.

The Latest Camping Statistics Unveiled

Approximately 40 million Americans, or 14% of the U.S. population over age six, went camping in 2013.

Unraveling the sleeping bag of camping popularity in the U.S., the data revealing that roughly 40 million Americans, equivalent to 14% of the populace over age six, geared up for camping in 2013, provides significant insight on the outdoor activity’s wide appeal. This numeric illustration not only affirms camping as a cherished American pastime, but also underscores its potential as a booming market for camping gear manufacturers, affording them a substantial customer base. It also offers eco-conscious policymakers valuable context reflecting on how many people interact with natural environments, aiding in fine-tuning conservation efforts. Hence, this statistic equips various sectors with a clearer understanding of the scale and impact of camping in the nation.

In 2019, 768,000 new households started camping.

Unveiling a significant surge in the camping sphere, data from 2019 accentuated the inception of 768,000 new households into the camping community. This figure not only underlines an escalating enthusiasm for outdoor adventures but also suggests a potential expansion in the camping industry. It serves as a critical benchmark that signifies a shifting trend towards nature-based activities. For prospective campers and stakeholders within this industry, such information can be instrumental in planning and strategy development, ultimately enhancing their camping experiences and business growth respectively.

The South Atlantic region of the U.S. is the most popular region for camping.

Pacificating adventure-seekers to the whispers of the trees and the music of the wild, the South Atlantic region brings in the epitome of tranquility with a gentle brush of adrenaline rush for campers across the U.S., promising an unmatched experience. The statistic giving this region the credit as the most popular camping destination essentially beckons recreational vehicle (RV) manufacturers, camping gear companies, and outdoor adventure services with prosperous opportunities for strategic business expansion while appealing to aspiring campers and adventurers with a vibrant, crowd-pleasing scene. Additionally, such data could potentially shape travel and tourism initiatives, advocating for the maintenance and protection of these crowd-drawing natural spaces.

63% of camping participants reside in a household that is married.

Delving into the heart of camping demographics, an intriguing insight emerges – a substantial 63% of camping participants reside in households characterized by marital bonds. This tidbit of information is illuminating for readers in that it uncovers the significant relationship between married life and outdoor recreational pursuits like camping. When dissecting camping trends, this statistic offers a valuable lens through which to appreciate the appeal of camping activities among married households. It may inspire camping gear manufacturers, campsite owners, and travel marketers to tailor their strategies and products to cater more effectively to this dominant demographic, thereby potentially sparking a more flourishing camping culture.

Approximately 36% of campers don’t plan their trips more than a month in advance.

Diving deeper into the exciting realm of camping analytics, we stumble upon a fascinating revelation, that nearly 36% of campers embark on their adventurous journeys without planning more than a month ahead. This intriguing data point heightens the perception of spontaneity associated with camping. It signalizes the impromptu spirit shared by a large portion of this community and provides useful insights for camping-related businesses. For instance, campgrounds, gear suppliers, and travel bloggers might want to adapt their strategies to cater to these spontaneous adventurers, ensuring a steady stream of information and last-minute booking options to accommodate this significant demographic.

10% of American households plan on camping more because of COVID-19.

In the grand tapestry of camping statistics, the fact that 10% of American households intend to camp more due to COVID-19 provides a striking testament to the shifting outdoor recreation behaviors in response to a global pandemic. This percentage marks a significant portion of the population that views the solitude and open spaces of camping as favorable circumstances amidst social distancing measures. For camping gear manufacturers, park agencies, outdoor activity planners, and enthusiasts, this subtle shift ignites a spectrum of opportunities and challenges, from increased sales of camping equipment to the management of overcrowded natural reserves, thus painting a fresh, invigorating perspective in our understanding of the dynamics of camping.

More than four out of five millennial parents went camping three or more times in 2018.

Highlighting the active involvement of millennial parents, specifically their frequent camping experiences, gives an interesting perspective into their recreational preferences. The statistic—that over 80% of millennial parents embarked on camping trips at least three times in 2018—sheds light on an emerging trend, simultaneously underscoring a growing interest and inclination towards nature and outdoor activities among this generation. This crucial data point offers valuable insights for businesses and marketers in the camping and outdoor industry, enabling them to devise strategies tailored to engage this demographic effectively.

Campers who camp with children (38%) are more likely than those who never do so (30%) to camp more.

In the realm of outdoor adventure, decoding camper behaviors presents intriguing insights. For instance, the observed statistic that nature enthusiasts camping with children (38%) have a greater propensity to camp more frequently than individuals who never do so (30%) can be a critical talking point. Within a blog post geared towards Camping Statistics, this information sheds light on family-oriented camping’s acceleration, underscoring the importance of designing camping sessions or gear explicitly targeting this segment. Additionally, it emphasizes how camping can facilitate familial bonding by being transformed into a regular activity, potentially catalyzing a new trend in the Camping world.

Individuals are 5 times more likely to camp in rural areas than urban areas.

Highlighting the increased preference for rural camping underscores the allure of nature’s tranquility that entices outdoor enthusiasts. This fact could sharply contrast an urban backdrop, awash with light pollution and a cacophony of sounds, incompatible with the ideal serene camping experience. It offers readers insight into popular trends, allowing them to align themselves with, or challenge, the norm. Notably, for entities within the tourism industry, it suggests a demand surge for amenities and services supporting rural camping, potentially influencing business strategy and decisions.

Individuals from non-white groups represent 26% of all campers in the United States.

Highlighting the statistic that 26% of all campers in the United States come from non-white groups adds a vibrant splash of cultural diversity to the American camping landscape in the context of this blog post. It underscores the growing inclusivity of outdoor recreational activities and the gradual shift from traditional demographics, revealing a broadening interest in camping across multicultural lines. Consequently, by presenting an opportunity for camping service providers to better tailor their offerings, it leaves a trail of implications for future marketing, facility development, and targeted outreach efforts that aim for a more diverse and inclusive environment in the camping industry.

60% of campers participate in multiple outdoor activities.

Digging into the world of camping, our data unveils a fascinating trend; a healthy 60% of campers immerse themselves in multiple outdoor adventures. This compelling stat breathes a new life into our understanding of modern camping enthusiasts, painting a colorful picture of multi-faceted explorers rather than single-activity participants. Within the canvas of a blog post about Camping Statistics, this infuses a broader perspective about the subject, shaping the narrative direction and informing tailored recommendations. Hence, the blog can effectively cater to its readers, who are not just confined to their tents but are passionate about a spectrum of outdoor endeavors.

Roughly 70% of all camping nights are in public campgrounds.

Unraveling the allure of the great outdoors, the statistic unveils a vivid testament of our intrinsic bond with nature. Roughly 70% of all camping nights being spent in public campgrounds paints a substantial importance of public facilities in quenching our quest for wilderness experiences. Within the pantheon of camping statistics, this figure isn’t a cursory footnote, but rather, it positions public campgrounds as essential pillars within the camping realm. It underscores their unmatched availability, accessibility, and above all, their undeniable role in making camping an affordable, yet unparalleled respite broadening our perspective of the world around us.

In Canada, spending on camping gear and in camping grounds amounted to over 1.9 billion CAD in 2018.

Highlighting a fact like “In Canada, spending on camping gear and camping grounds exceeded 1.9 billion CAD in 2018” provides strong quantitative context within a blog post about camping statistics. It sheds light on the economic significance and market size that outdoor activities like camping hold within Canada Specifically. Not only is this indicative of camping’s popularity within the country, but it also prompts potential investors and businesses within the camping industry to acknowledge Canada as a potentially lucrative market. Furthermore, it emphasizes the level of commitment Canadian campers have in terms of investment in their leisure activities. Therefore, this figure can be a motivational tool to enhance and maintain camping facilities and services, ensuring the growth and sustainability of the industry in Canada.

The United States has a total of 18,006 public and private campgrounds.

Envisioning the vast landscapes of America adorned with over 18,000 public and private campgrounds offers a captivating realm of potential adventures for camping enthusiasts, making this striking statistic an indispensable cornerstone of a blog post about Camping Statistics. The enormous variety and quantity of campgrounds shed light on the sheer scope of camping opportunities, from rugged backcountry sites to family-friendly amenities, all across the country. It also emphasizes the significance of camping in American culture and outdoor recreation, catering to different styles and preferences of campers. Consequently, the statistic is a testament to how camping, a popular American pastime, is robustly supported nationwide, thereby inspiring more people to explore the great outdoors and embrace the camping lifestyle.

Approximately 77 million households in the U.S. have someone who camps at least occasionally.

The striking revelation that nearly 77 million households in the U.S. engage in camping at least occasionally presents an alluring canvas for businesses and marketers operating within the realm of outdoor activities. This notable figure, emerging from beneath the veil of obscurity, paints a vibrant panorama of the camping landscape in the country. It not only underscores the significant popularity of camping as a leisure activity among Americans, but also sets the stage for in-depth analysis into the socio-economic elements behind this cultural phenomenon. This crucial statistic pioneers deeper conversations about camping trends, colorful demographics, seasonal variations, gear preferences and much more.

Approximately 56% of campers camp most often in public campgrounds.

Delving into the world of campers, we find that more than half, specifically around 56%, tend to gravitate towards public campgrounds. This statistic illuminates the preferences of the outdoor adventurer community, hinting at a potential interplay between accessibility, cost effectiveness, and the allure of shared experiences that public campgrounds provide. It also offers valuable insights to campground planning authorities and providers of camping gear as they decode consumer behaviors. Thus perceptively underscoring the importance of public campgrounds, the data becomes an integral part of our conversation on camping statistics.

The average distance traveled by campers in the U.S. to their campsite is 186.7 miles.

With the insight that campers in the U.S. cover an average distance of 186.7 miles to their campsite, potential adventure seekers can get a feel of the commitment and adventure quotient involved in camping. This represents not merely the physical distance, but also the extent to which camping enthusiasts are willing to disconnect from their daily environments to connect with nature. Additionally, businesses within the camping and outdoor industry, including tent manufacturers, RV companies, and outdoor gear businesses might utilize this data to forecast demand, position their marketing strategies, and optimize their supply chain routes for campers journeying such considerable distances.

In 2020, 46% of North American campers reported being new to the activity.

Highlighting the fact that nearly half of North American campers in 2020 were first-timers underscores a significant trend in outdoor recreational activities. This figure illustrates an accelerating interest in camping, perhaps induced by a pandemic-driven shift towards outdoor, socially distanced activities. It complements the post’s narrative by providing a quantified image of changing dynamics in the camping landscape, heightening the importance of keeping up with trends for stakeholders such as camping gear manufacturers, campsite operators, outdoor educators, and indeed, anyone engaging within the outdoor recreation industry.

35% of campers say that better campground wifi would make them camp more.

Highlighting the statistic that a noticeable 35% of campers express a desire for improved campground wifi to boost their camping frequency brings to light an influential factor in modern camping trends. In a digital age where connectivity is increasingly important, even in the midst of nature, it emphasizes the growing demand for technology integration in outdoor recreation. The figure serves as a crucial piece of advice for campground owners to drive increased visits and looks at the interplay between technology and nature in the blog about Camping Statistics. This insightful data helps shape the understanding of a contemporary camper’s needs and potential strategies to enhance their outdoor experience.

Conclusion

Understanding camping statistics highlights the growing popularity of this outdoor activity. Multiple insights, such as frequency of camping trips, variations due to geographical location or season, and preferred camping styles, all contribute to a more comprehensive picture of this trend. It’s evident that camping appeals to a diverse range of age groups and backgrounds due to its versatility, health benefits, and potential for adventure. The increasing interest in camping also suggests an exciting future for the outdoor industry.

References

0. – https://www.www.campgroundviews.com

1. – https://www.northoutdoors.com

2. – https://www.www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

3. – https://www.www.statista.com

4. – https://www.www.outsideonline.com

5. – https://www.www.arvc.org

6. – https://www.www.campendium.com

7. – https://www.www.americasstateparks.org

8. – https://www.thedyrt.com

9. – https://www.www.census.gov

10. – https://www.outdoorindustry.org

11. – https://www.koa.com

FAQs

What proportion of Americans go camping every year?

Approximately 40 million Americans, or about 14% of the population over age six, go camping each year.

How frequently do most campers go camping?

According to surveys, the average camper goes camping 5.4 times per year.

What is the most popular type of camping?

Tent camping is the most popular type of camping, with more than 86% of campers choosing this style.

What percentage of campers participate in outdoor activities?

Almost all campers - approximately 92% - report participating in multiple outdoor activities during their camping trips.

What is the average length of a camping trip?

The average length of a camping trip for Americans is 4.4 days.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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