The KOA Monthly Research Report – January Edition projects that 70 percent of those who camped in 2021 plan to do so again in 2022, meaning the outlook is strong for another year of camping industry growth.
“Camping has become the preferred way to enjoy the outdoors over the past year, and our research indicates that will continue,” said Whitney Scott, chief marketing officer of Kampgrounds of America. “It’s encouraging to see intent to camp remaining strong in 2022 with both veteran and new camping markets.”
As campers begin planning for another year of travel, most are booking their trips at least one month in advance. The majority are booking three to five months before they plan to travel, while 20 percent of campers book one to two months prior. Another 17 percent prefer to book their camping trip a full six to 12 months in advance.
“It’s no surprise that more campers mean more advanced bookings,” Scott said. “Our advanced reservations are up over 51 percent over 2021 numbers. While it’s certainly possible to reserve great campgrounds on short notice, we are seeing the booking window lengthen. As an organization, KOA.com is adapting to the demand by making sites in regions easier to find and easier to book.”
In 2022, factors impacting camping plans – whether positively or negatively – include surging COVID cases (33 percent) and weather conditions (28 percent). However, it is notable that 29 percent of campers say nothing is changing their plans for the year.
Top travel destinations for the year include Colorado, California, Florida and Pennsylvania. Campers plan to spend the most camping nights at national parks, state parks and private campgrounds.
KOA’s Monthly Research Reports provide a timely snapshot that builds upon the findings of KOA’s annual North American Camping Report released each April.
