The Rise of Solo Camping: A Thriving Trend in Outdoor Adventure

In the realm of outdoor adventures, the trend of solo camping has gained significant momentum, marking its third consecutive year of increase. According to recent research from The Dyrt, an all-encompassing camping app featuring every public and private campground across the United States, around 30.6% of campers reported spending at least one night camping alone in 2024. This shift illustrates a changing landscape in the camping community, showcasing the popularity of solitude.

The statistics come from The Dyrt's 2025 Camping Report, a comprehensive analysis presenting the latest trends and figures in the camping industry. This report aggregates information gathered from surveys across three primary groups: active users from The Dyrt's community, a representative sample of U.S. residents, and campground managers in all 50 states. The findings reveal a remarkable growth in solo camping, rising from just 18.8% in 2021 to 24% in 2022, and then 29.8% in 2023.

Kevin Long, the CEO of The Dyrt, attributes the rise of solo camping to a newfound appreciation for this experience. He states, “Solo camping is reflective of a trend that has transitioned into a new normal. The camping boom has led many individuals, who would have never ventured out alone, to discover the immense value of spending time in solitude. Even just a night or two alone in nature can serve as a refreshing reset.”

The motivations behind solo camping are varied, with the primary reason being the appeal of solitude—cited by 69% of solo campers. Other reasons for camping alone include friends or family being unavailable (50.6%), last-minute decisions (28.4%), and incorporating camping into a larger solo road trip (25.9%). Interestingly, solo campers are not entirely isolated; nearly half of them (49.7%) mentioned camping alongside their dogs, enhancing the companionship and security during their outdoor experience.

Kris A., a camper from Colorado, shares, “Having a dog with me during solo camping adventures adds a layer of safety, plus they lift my spirits. No matter if we're hiking, exploring lakes, or just relaxing around the campsite, my dog makes every moment more enjoyable.”

The consistency of solo camping statistics—hovering around 30% for two consecutive years—may suggest that this trend is firmly established. Solo camping is popular across various age demographics, but it appears that campers in the Pacific Region are the most inclined to embark on solo camping adventures.

Kyra E., a camper from Georgia, provides insight into her motivations for solo camping, stating, “I recently invested in a new car equipped with a tow hitch and sunroof, essentials for my road trips. This journey was as much practical, as I wanted to focus on mastering my new towing experience without distractions.”

The Dyrt continues to highlight these evolving trends within the camping community, offering an array of resources for campers, including a comprehensive database of campgrounds, glamping sites, and user-generated reviews. With its PRO version, The Dyrt enhances camping experiences by providing essential planning tools and alerts for campground reservations, enabling adventurers to discover new destinations seamlessly.

As the popularity of solo camping continues to rise, it's evident that this solitary endeavor is reshaping how individuals engage with nature and seek rejuvenation through outdoor experiences. With each passing year, the camping community expands, welcoming more enthusiasts who are keen to explore the tranquility that solo adventures offer.

For those looking to dive into this new trend, The Dyrt serves as a vital resource to simplify the camping experience, ensuring that solitude in nature is just a few taps away.