Camping is no longer just a budget-friendly travel option—it’s become a trendy, experience-driven adventure, especially among Gen Z travelers. According to the 2025 KOA Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, younger generations are not only camping more, but they’re also spending more—driving record growth in both traditional camping and luxury glamping experiences.
Gen Z Camping Trends: Experience Over Expense
While camping is typically seen as an affordable travel alternative, Gen Z campers are reshaping the landscape by prioritizing memorable outdoor experiences. In 2024, Gen Zers spent an average of $266 per day while camping—nearly double that of Baby Boomers. Their spending often includes gear rentals, local experiences, and upgraded amenities.
KOA Responds with Expanding Glamping Options
Kampgrounds of America (KOA), the largest network of private campgrounds in North America, is meeting this demand by upgrading its properties with more glamping accommodations—from deluxe canvas tents to cozy cabins and even yurts. CEO Toby O’Rourke emphasized that glamping lowers the barrier to entry for first-time campers and aligns with the younger generation’s preference for comfort-focused outdoor travel.
“Almost every KOA has some form of glamping,” O’Rourke stated, highlighting the brand’s focus on evolving with modern travel expectations.
One standout is KOA’s Terramor Outdoor Resort in Maine, which features high-end tents with WiFi, electricity, and heated sleeping areas, located near Acadia National Park.
Why Camping Remains a Top Affordable Vacation Option
Despite rising costs in the travel industry, 72% of campers still consider camping a cost-effective vacation, with many choosing it over resorts or international trips. As economic uncertainty looms, travelers are pivoting to nearby destinations, shorter trips, or swapping pricey vacations for national park visits and road trips.
KOA continues to modernize its parks to meet these shifting needs, focusing on making camping more accessible while still delivering immersive and upscale outdoor experiences.
