National Camping Month

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: Activities Appreciation Lifestyle
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every June
Holiday emoji:: 🏕️

National Camping Month invites adventurers to explore the great outdoors every June. From pitching a tent under the stars to roasting marshmallows around a campfire, it’s the perfect time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Plan a family trip, try a new hiking trail, or simply enjoy the peace of the wilderness.

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Expected National Camping Month Deals

Throughout June, National Camping Month sparks a wave of deals on outdoor gear and experiences. While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows retailers like REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Bass Pro Shops often roll out significant discounts on tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and apparel. Look for special offers from brands such as Coleman, known for their reliable camping essentials, and YETI, offering deals on coolers and drinkware for keeping provisions fresh. Online travel sites like Hipcamp and national park services may also feature reduced rates or special packages for campsites. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as June approaches.

Platform Guide for National Camping Month

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCampingMonth. Share stunning photos of your campsite, scenic hikes, and campfire cooking.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalCampingMonth. Create short videos of camping hacks, gear reviews, or funny outdoor mishaps.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalCampingMonth. Share your favorite camping memories, tips, and connect with other outdoor enthusiasts.

National Camping Month Hero

Horace Kephart

Horace Kephart (1862–1931) was an American author, librarian, and outdoorsman known for his influential writings on camping and wilderness survival. His book 'Camping and Woodcraft,' first published in 1906, became a foundational text for outdoor enthusiasts, offering practical advice on gear, skills, and living harmoniously with nature. Kephart's advocacy for conservation and his detailed guides helped popularize camping as a recreational activity in the early 20th century.

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

1910

Boy Scouts America

Boy Scouts America is formed by Ernest Thompson Seton and camping is one of the primary activities.

1912

Girl Scouts America

The first Girl Scout camp is built in Georgia.

1932

First International Camping Organization

The International Federation of Camping and Caravanning is formed.

1990

Truck Tents

The first ‘truck tent’ arrives, which is basically a pickup truck with a tent attached to it.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Camping Month

Local businesses can embrace National Camping Month by offering special promotions on outdoor gear, healthy snacks for the trail, or even guided local excursions. Retailers can create themed displays featuring camping essentials, while restaurants might offer ‘campfire’ themed menus or discounts for customers showing proof of a recent camping trip. Consider partnering with local parks or outdoor clubs to sponsor cleanup events or offer beginner camping workshops.

National Camping Month FAQs

When is National Camping Month?

National Camping Month runs throughout June 2026, offering a full 30 days to enjoy the great outdoors. It’s the perfect time to plan a summer adventure, whether in a national park or your own backyard.

How many Americans go camping?

According to the 2023 North American Camping Report, approximately 58 million households in the U.S. went camping at least once in the past year. This figure highlights camping’s enduring popularity as a beloved outdoor activity.

What are the most popular types of camping?

Tent camping remains the most popular form, followed closely by RV camping and glamping. Many campers also enjoy backcountry camping for a more rugged experience, while others prefer cabin rentals for comfort.

What are the benefits of camping?

Camping offers numerous benefits, including stress reduction, improved physical health from outdoor activity, and opportunities to bond with family and friends. It also provides a chance to learn survival skills and appreciate nature.

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.