The Dyrt revealed that over 50% of campers chose to bring their dogs on camping trips in 2023. This trend, detailed in the app’s 2024 Camping Report sponsored by The All-New Toyota Tacoma, underscores a significant shift towards pet-inclusive outdoor experiences.
According to the report, 53.7% of respondents camped with their dogs, and a smaller yet notable 5.8% included cats in their outdoor adventures. The variety of camping companions extended beyond traditional pets, with some campers reporting outings with chickens, box turtles, guinea pigs, and parrots.
Sarah Smith, founder of The Dyrt, shares her personal experience with Brandy, aka The Dyrt Dog, emphasizing the deep bond and the operational adaptability of running the business remotely from a camper van. Smith’s narrative highlights the integral role of pets in the lives of camping enthusiasts.
“Sometimes it seems like she has to pack more gear than us, but it’s so amazing to have her with us 24/7 as we work and enjoy campgrounds across the country,” Smith said.
To accommodate the rising trend of camping with pets, campground owners and managers are prioritizing pet-friendly amenities. Dog parks have become the third most requested feature at campgrounds, following Wi-Fi and pickleball courts. This shift not only caters to the needs of pet owners but also opens new revenue and customer satisfaction avenues for the outdoor hospitality industry.
RV camping, in particular, shows a strong preference for pet companionship, with a 20.8% higher likelihood of campers bringing pets compared to other forms of camping. This demographic shift suggests that RV parks and campgrounds need to consider more pet-oriented services and facilities.
Steven M. from Utah, a regular camper with The Dyrt, shares his personal experience, illustrating the quintessential American camping scene with his dog, Lola. His story reflects the broader cultural narrative where camping with pets is synonymous with outdoor bliss.
The state of Washington leads in pet-friendly camping, with statistics showing an 8% and 24% higher tendency for camping with dogs and cats, respectively. This regional trend provides valuable insights for campground operators looking to target market segments effectively.
With over 12 million reviews and information on 70,000 campgrounds, The Dyrt has become an indispensable resource for planning pet-accompanied camping trips. This extensive database not only aids campers in their decision-making but also offers campgrounds a platform to showcase their pet-friendly credentials.
The burgeoning trend of camping with pets underscores a broader shift in the outdoor recreation industry. Campgrounds and RV parks that embrace and promote pet-friendly policies and amenities are likely to see increased patronage and customer loyalty.
The significant presence of pets in the camping scene is a pivotal development for the outdoor hospitality sector. By aligning services with the preferences of pet-owning campers, industry stakeholders can harness this growing market segment, enhancing the camping experience for all and securing a competitive edge in the evolving outdoor hospitality landscape.