Family camping trips have surged in popularity, with more than 118 million families camping from 2020 to 2023. This increase is shaping a “new generation of lifelong campers,” according to Kampgrounds of America (KOA).
In their recent Families & Kids report, KOA explores how camping strengthens family bonds and influences future camping habits.
Camping has become a vital aspect of family life, with over three-fourths of family campers believing that it enhances relationships. The report highlights the significance of these experiences, noting that 43% of camping families were inspired by a love for the outdoors, while one-third cited the need to escape. Another third mentioned camping as part of a larger family trip.
Family campers also tend to be more frequent campers, with 34% taking three or more trips in 2023, compared to 23% of other campers. Moreover, 54% of family campers plan to camp more this year than they did last year, compared to 40% of other campers.
New camping families are also contributing to the demographic profile of campers. White families represent only 38% of the new camper population, a contrast to the 62% of all other campers.
KOA president and CEO, Toby O’Rourke, emphasized the importance of engaging children in camping activities. “This report highlights that the future of camping and outdoor hospitality rests with our youth,” O’Rourke said. “Children who camp with their families are far more likely to continue camping as adults, making it crucial to engage them in outdoor activities now to ensure a vibrant, enduring camping culture for generations to come.”
When it comes to planning camping trips, 58% of guests who camp with children report that their children’s interests influence their destination choices. Furthermore, grandparents are playing a role in family camping traditions, with 37% taking their grandchildren on camping trips without the parents.
New camping families are increasingly drawn to campgrounds offering a wide range of services and amenities, with 62% choosing such locations for their first camping experience. Additionally, 93% of families report using camping as a way to foster an appreciation for the natural world among their children.
The report also highlights the diversity within family camping demographics. Millennials make up 46% of family camper households. Additionally, Asian campers have seen the highest increase in camping participation since 2019, with a 30% uptick.
Multi-generational camping is also on the rise, with nearly three in 10 Generation Z campers and two in 10 millennials taking trips with their parents or grandparents. Hispanic and Black households are likely to engage in multi-generational camping.
Additional reports focusing on various aspects of camping and outdoor hospitality will be released in the coming weeks. To access the full 2024 Families & Kids report, visit their website here.
