Camping is one of America’s favorite outdoor activities and National Camping Month is observed in June every year. Be it with friends, family, or even by yourself, camping is the perfect way to reconnect with nature and yourself. Camping is also a very popular summer activity that keeps young children engaged outside of school. Enjoy camping however you want and rough it by leaving all modern amenities behind to get a detox from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
History of National Camping Month
National Camping Month has been celebrated every year in the month of June since the 1970s. The month aims to increase participation in outdoor activities, especially among the youth. People are encouraged to join camps or go camping with their loved ones.
Human beings have camped since time immemorial but modern-day recreational camping is considered to have been founded by Thomas Hiram Holding. Youth camping has also been popular in America for over a century now and it is believed to have started with Frederick William Gunn and his wife who established camps for schoolboys in 1861. The first girls’ camp was established in 1888 by Luther Halsey Gulick and his wife. Both these programs have become immensely popular over the years with summers becoming synonymous with camping!
Both primitive and motorized camping are popular in America, Canada, and Europe. Those who like to be on the move opt for RV campsites, which allow them to holiday and camp at the same time. Commercial RV campgrounds are equipped with modern amenities like electricity and water supply. With time, camping materials and gear have seen many technical
advances, too. Waterproof materials like nylon make camping possible in rain and snow. They are also easier to carry and are easily foldable. Campers no longer have to worry about lighting a bonfire or eating tinned food since lightweight aluminum cookware and portable stoves have made cooking easier at campsites.
National Camping Month timeline
Boy Scouts America is formed by Ernest Thompson Seton and camping is one of the primary activities.
The first Girl Scout camp is built in Georgia.
The International Federation of Camping and Caravanning is formed.
The first ‘truck tent’ arrives, which is basically a pickup truck with a tent attached to it.
National Camping Month FAQs
What month is good for camping?
Summer months are good for camping since the weather is dry and pleasant.
Is June National Camping Month?
Yes, National Camping Month is observed in June.
How long can you camp in a national park?
National parks allow you to camp at the site for about 14 days.
National Camping Month Activities
Go camping
Pick a weekend during National Camping Month to go camping with your loved ones. Remember to pack adequately and enjoy your time outdoors!
Camp at home
It’s not always possible to go camping but you can always camp at home. Camping in your backyard and minimizing screen time is still a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors.
Enjoy classic camp foods
Camping means delicious food! Serve up some barbecue, roasts, and s’mores for dinner and celebrate camping without actually having to leave the house.
5 Facts About Camping That Will Blow Your Mind
Everyone buys flashlights
Sleeping bags, tents, and backpacks aren’t the number one purchase of campers — it’s flashlights.
S’mores are only about a century old
The first recipe for s’mores was featured in a 1927 Girls Scout manual.
Planning takes time
It is believed that, on average, it takes campers 25 days to plan their camping trips.
Camping isn’t necessarily cheap
The average camper is believed to spend anywhere between $130–$150 on a two-day camping trip.
Camping is good for your health
Camping not only keeps you in shape but is also good for your mental health — spending some time outdoors keeps depression and anxiety at bay.
Why We Love National Camping Month
It brings families together
Camping is a great way to chill out with the family. National Camping Month encourages families to bond with each other while having fun together.
It reminds us of our childhood
Camping is an integral part of our childhood. As we get busy with our lives, we tend to forget the simple joys of life. National Camping Month reminds us of the good ol’ days!
It’s fun
It’s as simple as that. While we may not always have the time or resources to go on a proper vacation, camping is a simple and budget-friendly way to take a break from the monotony of life.
National Camping Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | June 1 | Monday |
| 2027 | June 1 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | June 1 | Thursday |
| 2029 | June 1 | Friday |
| 2030 | June 1 | Saturday |
