The camping industry is predicting record growth as more Americans seek to explore the outdoors. A new report from Statista predicts camping segment revenue to reach nearly $44 billion in 2023. This trend is expected to continue well into 2027 with an annual growth rate of just over 9 percent. 

Experts are forecasting that the camping segment will reach a market volume of $62 billion by 2027 with just over 385 million users. As more people look for alternatives to staying in hotels and other traditional vacation mainstays, camping is predicted to reach a penetration rate of 3.3 percent in 2023 and up to 4.8 percent by 2027. 

Analysts believed COVID-19 has been a major driver in increased sales of camping equipment as consumers look for easier and more affordable holiday options. The report noted that camping is also popular with environmentally conscious travelers, and it allows for low CO2 emissions and doesn’t require significant gas usage to find a spot to camp. 

Campers are also drawn to the ease of booking with so many established national parks and professional campgrounds across the U.S. Experts believe the camping segment will “regenerate and gradually reach former levels” over the next few years. 

The majority of camping equipment will be purchased online, with nearly 59 percent of purchases made through online retailers. 

The U.S. is the largest purchaser of camping equipment globally, reaching nearly $23 million in 2023.