Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) is marking Black History Month by releasing its 2022 Black Community Camping Snapshot, highlighting the continued growth of camping popularity among Black U.S. audiences.
Black campers represent 8 million camping households in the U.S. Over a quarter of those households (27%) were new to camping in 2021, based on data collected by KOA as part of its monthly research reports. This increase is a stark contrast to the 3.1 million Black camping households in 2017. This demographic of campers has grown 158% over the last five years.
The KOA report includes other data points representing interests and behaviors of this group, including:
- 61% of Black campers prefer tent camping over other lodging options
- 46% take more than three camping trips a year
- One-third of Black campers plan to purchase an RV in 2022
- 60% camp with multi-generational groups
- 72% of Black campers are either Millennial or Gen Z
- Biking (43%), fishing (31%) and canoeing/kayaking (31%) are among the top camping recreation activities
KOA said it celebrates and encourages Black camping, highlighting Black stories on its Youtube channel. Additionally, KOA has created ongoing partnerships with Black influencers and content producers.
To view full report, as well as past editions of the annual North American Camping Report, visit the KOA Press Room.
