Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has unveiled its 10th annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, shedding light on the evolving preferences and behaviors of modern campers. According to the report, the desire to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with nature and loved ones has significantly increased. This shift is driving more people to explore the outdoors, with KOA campgrounds serving as a popular destination.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, 4.4 million new campers have taken to the outdoors each year, according to the report. Among the 51% of campers who have embarked on road trips in the past year, a notable 76% included camping as part of their journey. These figures indicate a pronounced shift towards outdoor activities as a means of leisure and wellness.
“Over the last decade, we’ve observed a significant increase in active camping households,” said Diane Eichler, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Kampgrounds of America, Inc. “Our research shows that in the past ten years, over 40 million North Americans tried camping for the first time. Camping has evolved from a cherished outdoor pastime to an established leisure travel segment, reflecting a growing desire among travelers to connect with nature and loved ones.”
The report also highlights a growing focus on wellness among campers. An impressive 79% of travelers plan to incorporate activities like forest immersion, meditation, yoga, and mindful strolls into their camping trips. This trend underscores the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature and the increasing popularity of camping as a holistic wellness activity.
In addition to traditional camping, the report reveals a significant interest in glamping. Over the past year, 58% of campers have tried glamping, and 36% of guests plan to experience it for the first time this year. KOA caters to this demand with a range of accommodations, from traditional tent camping and RV sites to deluxe cabins and unique glamping options like safari tents. This variety ensures that campers of all experience levels can find suitable accommodations to enhance their outdoor adventures.
KOA campgrounds, with over 500 locations across North America, offer a diverse array of amenities, including swimming pools, playgrounds, organized recreational activities, and puppy playgrounds. These features provide both relaxation and adventure for campers, making it easier for families and individuals to create lasting memories in the great outdoors.
On June 5th, Diane Eichler conducted a nationwide media tour live from KOA’s first and oldest campground in Billings, Montana. The tour covered unique findings from the report, top trends and preferences of campers, and insights into how campers prioritize health and wellness. Eichler also shared insider tips and recommended destinations for the upcoming camping season.
The survey methodology for the report involved 4,100 completed surveys from U.S. and Canadian households, with a margin of error of +/- 1.82 percentage points for U.S. households and 2.83 percentage points for Canadian households. The results were statistically balanced to reflect the overall population's age, gender, and ethnicity, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the findings.
KOA has been a leader in outdoor hospitality for over 60 years, offering unparalleled support to campground owners and operators. With its mission of connecting people to the outdoors and each other, KOA continues to be a cornerstone of the camping industry, adapting to the evolving needs and preferences of modern campers.
