Camping Statistics 2023

Feb 23, 2021

It seems that more and more people are becoming camping enthusiasts. 40 million Americans went camping in 2016; one year later, that number rose by another 500,000. The RV industry also increased by 7% as well. People love to be outdoors and even rave about the benefits of camping and how it changes their way of life. Below, you'll find out more about the camping industry and the reasons why people can’t get enough of it.

Article Contents

What is Camping? Camping Statistics

Why Do People Like Camping? Benefits of Camping

Why Go Camping?: Reasons to Go Camping

Statistics (Editors Picks)

In 2016 40.5 million Americans went camping 2016
From 2015-2016, camping gained 500,000 participants.
Campers logged in a total of 587.2 million camping days or 14.5 days per person.
The average age for a first-time camper was 10 years old.
The camping industry is part of a segment called the “outdoor recreation” industry.
The outdoor recreation industry generated 890 billion in 2018
Better Sleep: camping can help reset and improve your circadian rhythm
Relieve Stress: not being attached to a schedule or normal distractions can help reduce stress levels.

What is Camping?

Camping Statistics

Campers logged in a total of 587.2 million camping days or 14.5 days per person.

The camping industry is part of the “outdoor recreation” industry. The outdoor recreation industry generated 890 billion in 2018. People's love and enthusiasm for outdoor recreation really show in how they spend their money. Everything from sleeping bags, eco-friendly camping equipment, and modern technology is constantly being bought to appease the camping masses. In 2016, 40.5 million people went camping. Together, those campers logged 587.2 million camping days, which averages out to 14.5 days per person. Even in the pandemic, people still planned to take their camping trips and be with nature.

Key Statistics:

In 2016 40.5 million Americans went camping 2016.
From 2015-2016, camping gained 500,000 participants.
Campers logged in a total of 587.2 million camping days or 14.5 days per person.
The average age for a first-time camper was 10 years old.
The camping industry is part of a segment called the “outdoor recreation” industry.
The outdoor recreation industry generated 890 billion in 2018.

Why Do People Like Camping?

Benefits of Camping

Tent window looking over mountains and flowers

The outdoor enthusiast will tell you about all of the health benefits of camping. Fresh air, being around with friends and family, and unplugging from social media are always the first things they bring up. However, camping does have some health benefits that one can take advantage of. Not relying on clocks or a schedule while out in the outdoors can positively affect your sleep schedule. It can alleviate stress and also reset your circadian rhythm during and after the camping trip. Building the campsite and parting in camping activities such as hiking, swimming, and fishing is a great exercise that is good for one's health. Finally, the noises of nature, along with the quiet of nature, can help ease the mind allowing you to meditate and embrace the calmness of nature.

Key Statistics:

Better Sleep -Camping can help reset and improve your circadian rhythm.
Relieve Stress- not being attached to a schedule or normal distractions can help reduce stress levels.
Relationship building- being around friends and family while doing activities help build and strengthen bonds.
Unplug- lack of cell service can help shut off the world of social media and refresh the mind
Meditation- the sounds of nature, fresh air, and lack of cell phone reception can help center the mind and achieve mental calmness.
Great food- camping is known for its fun, resourceful food.
Exercise- camping demands a lot of physical activity. Setting up the tent and organizing the camping area can be a workout in its self. This doesn't include all the hiking and walking you’ll be doing.

Sources:
https://koa.com/blog/the-benefits-of-camping-why-camping-is-good-for-you/
https://thedyrt.com/magazine/lifestyle/unexpected-benefits-of-camping/
https://www.eurekacamping.com/blog/article/10-health-benefits-camping

Why Go Camping?

Reasons to Go Camping

Tent in Field

Camping helps with problem-solving.

Maybe you’re not much of a camping enthusiast or rarely camp at all and are thinking, “should I go camping?” Well, if the health benefits were not enough to sway you, there are some more upsides camping has to offer. For starters, you don't have to travel to a national park or far scenic destination to enjoy a camping trip; it could be in your backyard. Exploring the local campsites and what your city has to offer is a great way to get to know your area and be outdoors. Also, camping is a very inexpensive way to take a vacation. Where it's in a local area or a national park. Camping also helps with problem-solving. While in the wilderness, problems may occur that would require thinking fast and solve the issue. Finally, camping can introduce you to new experiences that one would never consider. Like how little you can be with our how little you can be connected with the outside world.

Key Statistics:

Camping is an affordable getaway
Explore your own back yard
Camping helps with problem-solving
Camping introduces you to new experiences

Sources:
https://www.big4.com.au/tips-and-inspiration/tips-advice/camping/6-important-reasons-why-camping-is-good-for-you
https://www.10best.com/interests/outdoor-adventures/plan-camping-trip-now-10-reasons/
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/camping/why-camp.htm
https://koa.com/blog/the-benefits-of-camping-why-camping-is-good-for-you/

Conclusion

A lot of camping enthusiasts will argue about what real camping is. Whether it's tent camping, glamping, nature camping, or Rving, what matters most is that you are outdoors. 40.5 million Americans are already camping, and the numbers expect to grow. Even in a pandemic, Americans still made sure they had time to camp and experience the outdoors. Embrace your backyard and camping lots, or travel to a new one. Camping is an affordable way to vacation, and it can make it as expensive or inexpensive as you want it to be.

Camping Tent Night