The Kampgrounds of America (KOA) Monthly Research Report for July reported that more than 21.5 million households camped over the Fourth of July holiday, a number on par with 2022.
Interestingly, the survey found most campers (56%) share that they have been postponing trips to later in the summer or fall. Among all leisure travelers, 32% have postponed trips.
“We must examine challenges campers may be facing even as we’re seeing high participation,” Whitney Scott, senior vice president of strategy at Kampgrounds of America. “We know that campers are an enthusiastic group that will adjust their plans to continue camping, whether that means shifting dates or picking different locations. We’re looking at what leads to those shifts to better serve our guests.”
Most campers surveyed say that weather conditions have led them to adjust their camping plans. Sixty-two percent have altered their plans due to weather, with 22% changing where they camp and 18% revising the nature of their trip. Another 22% of campers admit that weather has led them to cancel their camping.
The July report also assessed concerns with campground overcrowding. More than 70% of campers note overcrowding in either 2022, 2023 or both. Of those that speak about overcrowding, 73% learned about it via word-of-mouth rather than first-hand experience (39%).
“Campers are sharing that overcrowding is affecting them,” Scott said. “However, some of this might be more chatter than reality. That said, whether real or perceived, we must examine space and capacity with a critical lens to continue providing the best experience for campers across the industry.”
Click here to see the full report.
