Kampgrounds of America, Inc.’s (KOA) Monthly Research Report for November found a significant increase in healthy holiday travel expectations.
Holiday travel among consumers who camp registered exceptionally high, KOA said, with 90% of respondents surveyed anticipating travel between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Of the consumer respondents who do not camp, 60% expected holiday travel this year.
Consumers who are traveling for Thanksgiving said 45% expect to camp. KOA said the holiday is the most popular winter camping holiday, ahead of Hannukah (36% camping).
Whitney Scott, KOA’s senior vice president of strategy, said she was enthusiastic about the shift in travel trends.
“We are witnessing a remarkable surge in interest for camping during the holiday season,” Scott said. “It is a testament to how outdoor experiences like camping are becoming integral to more than just secular travel. Families and individuals are seeking out the tranquility of nature to enhance their holiday traditions.”
More than a third of consumers who camp (36%) said they definitely will camp this year, nearly double the 19% who reported the same in 2022.
In all, KOA found over 60% of consumers who camp are likely to winter camp, including 60% who plan to do so for the first time.
“The surge in interest for winter camping, particularly in the northern states, is a clear indicator of unmet demand for winter recreation and travel,” Scott said. “This should be seen as a golden opportunity for outdoor hospitality to expand and innovate their offerings into new seasons and areas.”
