2017 Camping Trends

Millennials are heading outdoors, according to a new study by Kamping Association of America and millennial travel expert Contiki.

KOA’s study finds millennials make up 38 percent of the 75 million active camper households in the United States, and 51 percent of those millennials plan to increase the number of times they camp this year. Contiki reports a 19 percent increase in bookings across camping itineraries in comparison to last year.

One of the top camping trends this year, according to the study, is exotic European camping, which often feature multiday, multi-destination treks through several European destinations. Instagram also plays a role in camping decisions, with destinations like Reno Tahoe’s Emerald Bay State Park and Key West’s Boyd’s Campground seeing high numbers of campers due to the unparalleled natural beauty.

New digital resources contribute to the increase in camping, like the Tentrr app, which lists campsites all over the United States with tents, cots, a fire pit, grill, water, toilets, picnic tables and more. With 55 sites and counting, campers can enjoy great sites as well as a variety of outdoor activities, no more than 30 minutes from each site.

Another major trend in camping for the 18–35 age group is music festival camping — the perfect way to meet new people, enjoy the outdoors and save some money at festivals across the United States and abroad. Top camping festivals include Coachella, CountryFest and the Electric Forest Festival.