National Camping Month- A Look at Camping in the U.S.

June 03, 2024

June marks National Camping Month- a celebration of getting outside and sleeping under the stars.

For National Camping Month, we're breaking down KOA's 2024 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report and the top Midland products for camping.

CAMPING IN THE PAST DECADE

Here is a look at the how the frequency in which families are camping has changed over the last 10 years.

Households that identify as campers have increased by 16.5 million, a 23% increase
The number of households that have camped in the past year has increased by 21.6 million, a 68% increase
New campers make up 9% of guests
Since 2014, there has been a 98% increase in households that camp three or more times annually

All types of camping have seen a rise in popularity.

Tent usage has increased by 9.6 million or, 56%
RV usage up by 6.4 million or, 96%
Cabin/glamping has increased by 7 million, 101%

NEW CAMPERS

KOA's report has taken a look at the new camper profile in 2023. According to the report, nearly half of new guests at KOA properties reported a positive first time camping.

Quick Statistics

64% of new campers do not have children in the household
Nearly 1 in 4 new campers have a household income of over $100,000
Nearly 2/3 of new campers are from suburban or rural areas
45% of new campers are from diverse backgrounds

Camping Generationally

Silent Generation- 3%
Baby Boomer- 25%
GenX- 22%
Millennial- 28%
GenZ- 21%

2024 TRAVEL GOALS

KOA's report also took a look at what is motivating people in their 2024 travel experiences. The report states that the number one travel goal is to slow down to enjoy experiences. It's a priority for 57% of travelers.

Here's a look at the camping priorities KOA found.

Slowing down and being in the moment- 57%
Travel experience that allow for a recharge- 50%
Having a variety of experiences- 41%
Ability to check off several travel bucket list items- 17%
Being spontaneous- 34%
Travel that requires physical activity- 25%
Seeking type of travel experienced before pandemic, but still haven't been able to- 16%
Taking a group trip- 16%
Uncertain- 6%

TOP MIDLAND RADIOS FOR CAMPING

X-Talker T71VP3 Two-Way Radio

A top-seller, this walkie talkie is perfect for any camping excursion.

It's so easy to use that the whole family can easily grab one and start communicating.

With it's seriously impressive battery life, the T71 is perfect for trips, ensuring you won't have to be too worried about losing power while communicating.

The T71 also features Weather Alert Radio with Weather Scan so you can keep an eye on conditions in the area.

Midland ER40 Emergency Crank Radio

This emergency crank NOAA Weather Radio will be sure to let you know if severe weather is on the way to your area. You'll get the latest information straight from the National Weather Service.

It has several different ways of receiving power so you don't have to worry about that. The power sources include a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, solar panel, and hand crank.

When the campsite is dark, look no further. The ER40 has a flashlight with SOS strobe that'll come in handy if you find yourself in emergency situations.

Don't let safety be an after thought!