Camping Ranks as Third Most Popular Activity Among Americans in 2025

The Dyrt, a well-reputed app focused on discovering the best campsites, recently published intriguing findings regarding outdoor activities in America. According to their latest report, which involved a survey of 1,000 U.S. residents, camping has secured its position as the third most favored activity among outdoor enthusiasts for the year 2025. In the rankings, walking and swimming took the top two spots, underscoring the diverse interests of outdoor adventurers.

Understanding the Survey Insights

The insights shared in The Dyrt’s 2026 Camping Report, sponsored by Toyota Trucks, reveal a comprehensive picture of camping's popularity. Participants were asked about the outdoor activities they engaged in as part of formal or informal groups in the past year. The Top 5 activities are:
1. Walking
2. Swimming
3. Camping
4. Hiking
5. Gardening

Interestingly, while many may assume that hiking would rank higher than camping, the data shows a significant twist. Kevin Long, CEO of The Dyrt, expressed his surprise to see camping outpacing hiking. “Camping is an accessible outdoor activity,” he noted. Even with the necessary gear, such as tents or RVs, the vast majority of campsites are easily reachable by vehicle, with numerous locations also equipped to accommodate those with disabilities.

The Accessibility Factor

The ease of access to campsites appears to play a crucial role in the growing popularity of camping. The Dyrt meticulously catalogues information about campgrounds, including whether they feature drive-in sites where campers can park adjacent to their sleeping quarters. This transparent communication benefits everyone but especially aids individuals with mobility challenges. One camper from Colorado, Madeline M., shared, “Finding our new regular camping spot was the highlight of my year! It’s beautiful and just level enough that my husband can navigate in his wheelchair.”

With 2025 marking the second-highest number of campers on record at 82.4 million—just shy of the 84.8 million from 2023—it's evident that many Americans are flocking to nature for relaxation and recreation. Notably, the report estimates there were around 2.6 million first-time campers last year, with participants indicating a median of six camping trips taken. Even more impressive, a substantial 85% of adults in America have reportedly gone camping at least once in their lives.

Conclusion

The Dyrt’s 2026 Camping Report shines a light on the evolving landscape of outdoor activities in the U.S., positioning camping firmly at the forefront alongside walking and swimming. The favorable nature of camping, with its combination of accessibility and enjoyment, indicates a promising future for the activity, ensuring that it remains a beloved tradition across generations of Americans. For anyone interested in planning their next outdoor adventure, The Dyrt continues to serve as a valuable resource for locating the best camping spots and making the most of your time outside.

To explore more about The Dyrt and the findings of the 2026 Camping Report, check out The Dyrt.