As spring break 2024 approaches, Campspot’s latest report unveils the trending states and cities for camping enthusiasts, offering valuable insights for campground and outdoor hospitality operators.
The analysis, based on January searches for travel dates between March 1 and April 15, 2024, highlights the shift towards domestic travel, deemed more economical this year according to Kayak’s 2024 travel report.
Florida leads the pack as a preferred destination, with Oxford and Daytona Beach capturing campers’ interest. Oxford, nestled in Southwest Florida, promises a serene camping experience with attractions like Lake Griffin State Park.
Daytona Beach, on the other hand, appeals to those seeking vibrant beachside activities and nightlife. The average daily rates in these cities stand at $20 and $55, respectively, indicating a range of affordable camping options.
Utah’s breathtaking national parks, including Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, and Bryce Canyon, make it a top choice for outdoor adventurers. Moab, with its proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and Salt Lake City, a gateway to over 20 national parks, offer diverse experiences with average daily rates of $90 and $40.
Tennessee, known for the Great Smoky Mountains and its rich music heritage, features Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg as its top spring break cities. These destinations, with average daily rates of $40 and $105, respectively, blend natural beauty with cultural attractions.
California’s diverse landscapes from Big Sur’s beaches to the Sierra Nevada mountains attract campers to Friant and Santa Barbara. These cities, offering access to Yosemite National Park and beachside camping, have average daily rates of $20 and $55, showcasing the state’s wide range of outdoor experiences.
Georgia’s historic Savannah and tranquil Eastman are highlighted for their unique offerings, from cobblestone streets to fishing at the Dodge County Public Fishing Area, with an average daily rate of $45 in both cities.
Alabama’s Gulf Shores and Maplesville stand out for their outdoor activities and scenic beauty, with average daily rates of $45, offering campers a mix of beachside fun and quiet, small-town charm.
Arizona, with its iconic landscapes including the Grand Canyon and Sedona’s red rocks, features Phoenix and Tucson as top destinations. These cities, with average daily rates of $20 and $15, cater to those seeking desert adventures and cultural experiences.
North Carolina’s Charlotte and Goldston offer a blend of urban and natural attractions, from the U.S. National White Water Center to Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, with average daily rates of $50 and $40.
South Carolina, with Myrtle Beach and Charleston, provides options for beachside camping and historical exploration, both with an average daily rate of $45.
Texas completes the list with Austin and Blanket, offering a year-round camping destination and serene lakefront views, both with an average daily rate of $40.
For campground and outdoor hospitality operators, these trends underscore the importance of understanding consumer preferences and the potential for increased demand in these areas.
By aligning services and amenities with the interests highlighted in Campspot’s report, operators can attract more visitors and enhance their camping experience. This insight is crucial for the campground industry, as it navigates the preferences of a diverse range of campers seeking memorable spring break experiences across the United States.
Featured image by Broad River Campground via Campspot
