With summer temperatures soaring, travelers increasingly opt for cooler, nature-centric destinations to escape the heat. Woodland campgrounds, offering shade and refreshing outdoor activities, have become popular for vacationers seeking relief from the blazing sun. According to Pitchup.com, the trend is gaining momentum, with summer bookings for woodland sites experiencing significant growth.
Pitchup.com, a booking platform for campgrounds, reports a 70% increase in the use of its “bush” filter, which allows travelers to find larger, forested areas. The demand spike highlights the shift from typical beach getaways to more serene, shaded environments.
Many travelers opt for peaceful retreats in the woods or mountains as temperatures rise, seeking cooler weather and a quieter setting. According to a Pitchup.com report, “travelers are trading the typical beach getaway for a relaxed summer spent in the shade of the woods or mountains.”
Pitchup.com’s ‘Coolest’ Woodland Campgrounds
Among the popular destinations is Thunder Mountain Camp in Arkansas’ Ouachita National Forest. This 100-acre campground provides visitors with a secluded escape, featuring activities like kayaking, tubing, and hiking along tree-covered trails. Its location outside the Ozarks makes it an under-the-radar option for those seeking a more peaceful retreat.
In Vermont, Chipman Inn offers a woodland experience within the Green Mountain National Forest. Campers are surrounded by maple trees, creating a setting ideal for hiking and biking. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Middlebury or dine at the on-site inn, combining convenience with nature’s tranquility.
New Hampshire’s Hummingbird Center in the White Mountains also caters to eco-conscious travelers. In addition to outdoor activities, this permaculture farm offers educational experiences in sustainability, such as workshops on solar water heating and wood-fired cooking.
The growing demand for cooler, shaded camping destinations is not limited to the United States. Pitchup.com reported that a woodland campground in Devon, England, has seen an 850% rise in bookings compared to last year, while a forest campground in Slovenia reported a 68% increase.
Travelers are also prioritizing shady and woodland settings over sun-soaked beaches. Reviews from campers at forested sites further emphasize this preference.
According to Pitchup.com, Sarah S., who visited Moulins de la Vergne in August 2024, noted the peaceful atmosphere, describing it as “a lovely peaceful campsite” with “plenty of shade under a mixed habitat of trees.”
Similarly, Vladimir R., who stayed at Burnbake Campsite in Corfe Castle, praised the wooded area for its shade and space between pitches, stating that it was a “fabulous” campsite.
“Fabulous campsite! And that is saying something for someone like me who normally doesn’t like camping. [The] woodland area of the campsite was so shaded and lovely with enough space between pitches and near all the great facilities,” Vladimir said.
The trend extends to families seeking outdoor fun and relaxation. Tommy B., who camped at Adventure Pirate in August 2024, shared his positive experience, noting the shaded areas and family-friendly amenities. “We found a pitch in the woods with lots of shade which was perfect in the 30-degree heat,” he said. “This is the best campsite we’ve ever been to and will definitely come again.”
The surge in bookings for these shaded, forested locations underscores the changing preferences of summer travelers, reflecting a growing desire for peaceful, cooler vacation options amid rising global temperatures.
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