BIPOC campers accounted for a disproportionate share of new camping participants in 2025, with individuals from these communities 53% more likely to camp for the first time compared to the overall population, according to data released by The Dyrt.
The findings, published in the company’s 2026 Camping Report Presented by Toyota Trucks, indicate a notable demographic shift that is contributing to the growth of the broader camping community.
The report draws on surveys of thousands of The Dyrt users, a representative sample of United States residents, and campground operators across all 50 states.
The increase in participation among BIPOC campers signals expanding access and engagement in outdoor recreation, with implications for campground operators, equipment manufacturers, and tourism stakeholders.
According to a press release, Kevin Long said the trend aligns with the company’s efforts to broaden participation in camping.
“Camping in the great outdoors is for everybody, and it’s so encouraging to see these statistics for first-time campers from the BIPOC community,” Long said.
“It’s always been part of The Dyrt’s mission to make camping more accessible for everyone. We want this camping community we’re all a part of to continue to grow,” Long added.
The report also found that experienced BIPOC campers were 10% more likely to try a new type of camping in 2025 compared to the overall camping population.
Preferences for specific camping styles showed notable variation, with BIPOC respondents 55% more likely to favor truck camping.
Participation in truck camping among BIPOC users of The Dyrt increased 122% from 2024 to 2025, while camper van camping among the same group rose 60% during the same period.
Individual experiences highlighted in the report underscore increased exploration and travel among BIPOC campers. One respondent described extended trips through multiple western states and visits to established campgrounds.
The report also examined the impact of external factors on camping participation, including the 43-day federal government shutdown in 2025 and staffing reductions at national parks. One in five BIPOC campers reported disruptions to their camping plans as a result of these federal actions, indicating that access challenges persist despite overall growth in participation.