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The 2026 KOA Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report

Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) has unveiled its 12th Annual Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report, shedding light on the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality. The report indicates a robust connection between camping and the growing emphasis on wellness and community in travel.

Outdoor Hospitality's Economic Impact

The Outdoor Hospitality sector has made an impressive mark, contributing a staggering $66 billion to local economies in 2025—a significant $5 billion increase from the previous year. An important highlight is the number of campers in North America, which soared past 52 million households in 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic participation levels. The pandemic introduced a plethora of first-time campers between 2020 and 2022, many of whom have continued the camping tradition, reinforcing the sector's growth. As KOA's President and CEO Toby O'Rourke pointed out, "Camping is no longer a niche market; it is a vital part of North America’s travel economy."

Spending Patterns and Younger Generations

The report showcases that younger generations and families with children are leading the charge in outdoor spending, with average daily expenditures exceeding $200 per person, excluding accommodations. Notably, 35% of adults consider camping the easiest vacation choice for families, while the same percentage regards it as the most affordable form of travel. This shows a transformative trend towards embracing camping as an attractive leisure activity.

A Shift Towards Analog Camping and Wellness

Perhaps the most significant finding from this year's report is the shift in camping motivations toward wellness. Approximately 77% of campers believe that simply being in nature is sufficient for fulfillment, without the need for structured activities or extravagant amenities. This reflects a broader generational shift towards prioritization of mental and physical well-being. Almost half of campers are now booking trips specifically to enhance their mental health, signaling a fundamental change in the outdoor hospitality landscape. O'Rourke states, "Nature isn’t a luxury; it’s a proven method for wellness."

Campgrounds as Social Hubs

In a world increasingly marked by social isolation, the report highlights that a significant 75% of campers perceive campgrounds as “third places,” fostering genuine community connections outside of home and work. This is especially impactful for younger campers, with 43% of Gen Z respondents noting that they maintain long-term contact with fellow campers. Meanwhile, 40% of Millennials emphasize the value of neighborly interactions in creating memorable experiences. This trend underscores the growing role of campgrounds in combating social fragmentation.

Glamping and Market Expansion

The advent of glamping is notably reshaping the market, accounting for 29% of camping experiences in 2025. This luxurious camping option has become a gateway for many first-time campers, with 31% opting for such accommodations. Additionally, older generations, particularly Boomers, are rediscovering camping after a hiatus, suggesting a renewed focus on lifestyle and leisure experiences.

Looking Ahead: The Open Road Era of 2026

As we look to 2026, campers plan to embark on more ambitious adventures, with 31% intending to spend more nights camping compared to the previous year. Increased interest in road trips and cultural explorations, such as celebrating the historic Route 66 Centennial, indicates a thriving future for outdoor hospitality.

Comprehensive Research Methodology

The survey for this report was conducted across a random sample of 4,088 households in the U.S. and Canada, reflecting a broad demographic insight into the camping market. It continues KOA’s commitment to delivering precise and actionable insights into the outdoor hospitality landscape.

Kampgrounds of America is dedicated to connecting individuals to nature and each other, positioning itself as a leader in outdoor hospitality and continuously adapting to the evolving needs of travelers.