NEWS | New Report Shows Diversity is Increasing in the U.S.A Camping Community
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) recently released their 2021 North American Camping Report and their KOA 2021-2022 Camping Omnibus Survey results, showcasing recent changes in camper demographics and the camping industry.
Diversity in the great outdoors is on the rise
Of 2020s 10.1 million first-time campers, 60% were people of color or from non-white communities. And nearly half of first-time Black and Hispanic campers shared that they started camping last year for reasons directly tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Safety first
36% of campers said that safety was their top priority when it came to camping and choosing a campsite. In the last 12 months, instances of feeling unsafe while camping because of one’s race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability have decreased by 7%.
Reports also show that private campgrounds have been some of the safest locations for women and people of color to visit the outdoors, with 90% of visitors saying they felt safe and comfortable while camping at privately-owned sites.
Young and active
Camping is attracting younger generations. The majority of campers, including 60% of first-time campers, were under 40 years-old in 2020. GenZ campers were the least likely to solo camp, with 96% opting to camp with friends, family, and/or other individuals.
Likewise, the number of groups camping with children increased 5% in the last year, as more families turned to camping as a vacation outing.
Read the full Kampgrounds of America report here.
Where to next?
- NEWS | Tarragona Campsites Named Among The Best in Europe
- WELLBEING | Brilliant Books To Inspire Your Outdoor Adventures & Wellbeing
- CAMPING GEAR | Snug as a Bug In The Night Owl 3 In 1 Sleeping Bag – Review