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April24–30

American Camp Week – April 24-30, 2025

American Camp Week is celebrated each year from April 24 to April 30. Camping is one of the United States’ favorite activities and thousands of families go camping every year after the summer ends. April marks the onset of warmer months and as we bid farewell to winters, it’s exciting to look forward to going out and spending time outdoors. The week is celebrated by people going on camping vacations, signing up their children for summer camps, and getting more people to go camping. American Camp Week serves as a cheerful reminder of how beautiful the outdoors can be and how important it is to spend time in nature.

History of American Camp Week

Governor J. Strom Thurmond initiated American Camp Week in 1950. He passed a proclamation that brought the celebration into existence. According to the text, camping provides unique chances for young girls and boys to boost their growth and development. Camping, according to the Governor, provides young girls and boys with valuable life experience that helps them grow into self-sufficient people. It’s also a fantastic approach to teaching children about play, caring, and assisting one another in difficult situations.

The celebrations began in Carolina where the state’s parks, forests, and mountains provided ideal grounds for camping and enjoyment of young people and their families. When schools are out for the summer, camping has traditionally been a favorite activity among youngsters who have signed up for summer programs. Here they can learn to set up tents, gather their own food, protect themselves, and build friendships that will leave a lasting impression on them. In an increasingly digital environment, parents send their children to summer camps to persuade them to participate in outside activities. Camping is the ideal chance for both because youngsters benefit greatly from spending time in nature and interacting with their classmates.

However, camping is not just for children. Adults can go on their very own camping trips too. Camping is a great stress-buster and the time spent in nature takes us right down memory lane. Adults and children have observed American Camp Week since 1950, attending camps, taking road excursions, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

American Camp Week timeline

1880s
Camping Becomes Popular

People start going camping as a recreational activity.

1894
First Commercial Camp

Cunningham’s Camp is the first commercial camp.

1906
Association of Cycle Campers

The first camping site opens.

1960s
Families Start Camping

Camping becomes a regular summer activity for families.

American Camp Week FAQs

Where can you camp for free?

State parks, city parks, and county parks in America and Canada sometimes maintain free camping areas.

What camping can teach us?

Camping teaches us self-confidence, respect, teamwork, gratitude, responsibility, resiliency, leadership skills, and independence.

What is basic camping?

In basic camping, you set up a camp while taking day trips and hikes. This allows you to leave your tent set up at your campsite each day.

American Camp Week Activities

  1. Go camping

    Celebrate American Camp Week by going camping. Gather your friends and family and set off on an adventure of a lifetime.

  2. Sign up your children for camp

    If you have children, enroll them in camp during American Camp Week. They'll have a great time, and it'll be a summer to remember.

  3. Spend time outdoors

    If you are unable to go camping, try spending some time at your favorite park or even your backyard. Just make sure you get some fresh air!

5 Facts About American Camping That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Americans love camping

    Each year, about 42 million Americans go camping.

  2. Americans go camping quite often

    Americans go camping around four times a year.

  3. These trips are usually short

    An average American camping trip lasts three days.

  4. State parks are favorite camping grounds

    42% of American campers prefer going camping in state parks.

  5. It’s important to be geared up

    The most popular camping gear purchase is a flashlight.

Why We Love American Camp Week

  1. Walk down memory lane

    American Camp Week reminds us of the happy times that we spent as children in camps. It’s a lovely time to reminisce about the good times.

  2. Reminds us of the simple joys

    Sunshine, trees, the outdoors — that’s all you need to have a good time! American Camp Week reminds us of the simple joys of life.

  3. Gets us outdoors

    We are all either cooped up in our homes or offices. American Camp Week encourages us to spend time in nature and outdoors.

American Camp Week dates

Year Date Day
2025 April 24 Thursday
2026 April 24 Friday
2027 April 24 Saturday
2028 April 24 Monday
2029 April 24 Tuesday