The Dyrt, a consumer camping app, recently completed a survey showing nearly a third of consumers who camped in 2023 (31.2%) did so during the winter.
The Dyrt said winter camping increased by 40% between 2019 and 2021. The new survey shows the trend continuing, the company said.
The Dyrt CEO Kevin Long said, “The fact that the rate of winter camping remains level from the height of the pandemic is remarkable. “Travelers have every option available to them again, but winter camping remains at an all-time high. People bought the gear, braved the elements and fell in love with enjoying the great outdoors at a quieter, cozier time of year.”
The survey found clothing and gear advancements made camping in colder, wetter climates more feasible and enjoyable. Winter-specific tents can shield consumers from low temperatures, high winds and overnight snowfalls, the Dyrt said. Once inside the tent, a portable heater and zero-degree sleeping bag provide comfort, the company added.
One respondent, who said he was new to winter camping, experienced winter in seven states during a recent long road trip. Another respondent from Oregon said the cold and short daylight hours provide a challenge but she feels good aligning herself with the seasons’ change.
The Dyrt said the proliferation of glamping accommodations at campsite areas means winter camping does not require roughing it.
“Plus, more than half of campers today camp in RVs, trailers or vans,” the company said, “so they are well equipped to head to warmer camping destinations in the South.”
