More Time for Nature
Later in Life
The reemergence of the Boomer
generation is supporting the
stability of the industry, however
excitement is building within Gen X
as they approach retirement years.
Within the near-retirement
segment—those 55-65 years-old:
• 50% plan to retire within five years
and 30% are already retired.
• 57% plan to camp more in
retirement; very few (4%) plan to
camp less.
• 15% plan to buy their first RV.
For 2026, campers are split in their likelihood to try out a tent or glamping accommodation.
55%
54%
22%
41%
9%
37%
13%
7%
12%
5%
6%
10%
19%
18%
1%
5%
43%
19%
8%
8%
2%
(NET)
Tent for the family
Tent for backpacking, biking, canoeing or kayaking
Rooftop or truck bed tent for your vehicle
Hammock
Bivy
(NET)
Motorhome
Fifth-wheel trailer
Travel trailer
Pop-up trailer
Pick-up camper
Camping van
(NET)
Glamping accommodation
Full-service cabin with a bathroom
Rustic cabin with no bathroom
(NET)
Vehicle
Other
Tent
RV
Glamping
Other
None of these
Ways Campers Plan to Camp in 2O26
retire in the next few years are planning
to camp more post-retirement.
plan to buy an RV.
their RV type.
57% of those looking to
15% of retirees
9% plan to change
52
The
Future
of
Outdoor
Hospitality
2026
CAMPING
&
OUTDOOR
HOSPITALITY
REPORT
