Kampgrounds of America, Inc.’s (KOA) 2025 Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report found camping has continued to persevere amid changes.
Key changes have taken place around the company industry, including the pandemic, economic uncertainty and a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts beginning their camping experiences. The report found consumers have not swayed from partaking in camping.
KOA predicts an industry evolution or reset because of the changes. Despite the changes, KOA CEO Toby O’Rourke said she has seen tremendous camping growth over the past five years.
“While camping was down slightly year-over-year, we anticipate a resurgence in returning travelers to camping this year,” O’Rourke said, “with 72% of campers believing camping is the most cost-effective travel option.”
The report noted the pandemic disrupted the outdoor hospitality industry, with shifts in participation levels and consumer demographics. During the pandemic, consumers who camped were younger, more diverse and more likely to work or study on the road. The report indicates today’s consumers closely resemble 2019 consumers who camp, signaling a potential market stabilization.
However, economic uncertainty last year led to a slight decline in camping activity. Travelers responded to financial stress, political unrest and major weather events by staying closer to home. So far in 2025, economic anxiety continues to shape consumer behavior. More than two-thirds of consumers surveyed (68%) said news and political climate are affecting their 2025 travel plans.
The report said financial concerns led to shifts in travel plans and spending habits. The number of consumers planning to cut back on camping doubled in the latest report, from 13% to 26%. While boomers tend to be more cautious with their travel spending due to rising costs, millennials remain optimistic about maintaining or increasing their travel budgets.
Canadians also reported behavioral changes because of economic concerns. Nearly one-third (31%) of consumers expect to spend less on travel this year than last year, and 50% say the economy has worsened since January. Concerns like gas prices and overall economic strain are pushing 57% of Canadian consumers who camp toward provincial campgrounds, which are often less costly than private alternatives.
KOA reported a new generation is transforming how people engage with the camping industry. While camping participation from millennials and Gen X has remained stable, Gen Z increased its involvement since 2019. Boomers also reported a 4% increase in 2024.
The percentage of consumers who camp who are also under age 30 is consistent with 2019 levels. The report said the findings indicated a broader diversity in age groups entering the camping scene.
Gen Z and millennials make up 61% of new consumers who camp.
The report showed a rise in interest in cabins, glamping and campgrounds offering full amenities. Younger consumers, often coming from urban environments, were found to seek convenience, local culture and nature without sacrificing comfort.
Additionally, the new generation of consumers who camp places a strong emphasis on wellness, mental health and pet-friendly experiences. Nearly half of Gen Z consumers who camp use camping as a way to support their mental health. The report found many are attracted to wellness-focused trends such as “barefoot grounding” and “camping after dark.”
Pets are increasingly central to the camping experience, with over half of millennial and Gen Z consumers who camp saying they bring dogs camping.
O’Rourke said the report’s findings show a dynamic reset in the camping landscape.
“Despite economic pressures, it is clear that the outdoor hospitality industry provides significant value for personal well-being and contributes positively to local communities,” she said, “ensuring its continued strength and resilience.”
KOA projects 1 million new households will try camping for the first time in 2025. The report found 62% of consumers who began camping within the past three years said they plan to continue.
