In July, the camping sector in the United States remained stable compared to 2021. The concerns that had emerged after the increase in fuel prices are easing somewhat, also because prices have reversed the trend. According to the monthly report from Kampgrounds of America (KOA), 15.93 million families will attend campgrounds in July, although some admitted to having changed plans due to economic factors.
“This year is very different than 2021, and we’re encouraged that people are still turning to camping as a vacation option,” said Whitney Scott, chief marketing officer of Kampgrounds of America. “Even amidst uncertainty from external factors, campers are proving the importance of the activity as they make plans. People are finding ways to camp because it’s a part of their lifestyle.”
While lower gas prices are less of a concern compared to previous months, shifting economic considerations have caused 77% of camping households to adjust their camping plans. Shifts include taking trips closer to home, fewer camping trips, or staying in locations longer. In the past 30 days, 12% said they canceled some of their camping plans. It is also notable that other travel is also affected by financial concerns, with 35% of campers indicating they have or plan to replace another vacation option with a camping trip in 2022.
Amongst the subset of campers who say they will not be camping this year, financial reasons, difficulty finding a site and not having vacation time were the top reasons. Gas prices, which have dropped slightly, fell as a reason for not camping.
The July Monthly Research Report also shared how far in advance campers are booking. Most (20%) indicated that they reserve their campsites three to five months in advance. Similar amounts said they prefer to book one month (18%) or six to twelve months (18%) in advance.
Reise + Camping 2026: from 25 February in Essen, Germany, the major tourism and outdoor trade fair