National Camp Day is a special day dedicated to celebrating the joys and benefits of camping. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the experience, this day encourages everyone to embrace nature, bond with friends and family, and enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and storytelling around the campfire.
Quick Facts
When is it?: November 19
Tagged as: Outdoor, Adventure, Nature
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCampDay
When was it founded?: Early 20th century
Who founded it?: The origins are unclear, but it celebrates a long tradition of camping in the U.S.
History of National Camp Day
Camping as an organized activity dates back to 1861 when Frederick and Abigail Gunn took their students on a two-week camping trip in Connecticut. This trip laid the foundation for what would become a beloved tradition in America. Over the years, camping evolved from simple outdoor activities to specialized camps focusing on various interests like sports, technology, and arts. National Camp Day was established to honor this rich history and encourage people of all ages to reconnect with nature.
Timeline
- 1861: First organized American camping trip by Frederick and Abigail Gunn.
- 1910: Boy Scouts of America and Camp Fire USA were founded.
- 1935: The American Camp Association (ACA) was established.
- 1965: Camps began integrating across racial and socioeconomic lines.
- 2000s: “Digital detox” became a popular trend in camps.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Nov | 19 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | Nov | 19 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | Nov | 19 | Thursday |
| 2027 | Nov | 19 | Friday |
| 2028 | Nov | 19 | Sunday |
Observed
National Camp Day is observed by going on camping trips, signing up for summer camps, or even reminiscing about past camp experiences. Many families use this day to plan future camping adventures or introduce their children to the joys of nature.
Fun Facts About National Camp Day
- 96% of campers make new friends during their camp experience.
- Many celebrities like Adam Levine and Natalie Portman attended or worked at camps.
- Camps today can be highly specialized, offering everything from circus arts to video game design.
Quiz
- When is National Camp Day celebrated?
- Who took part in the first organized American camping trip?
- What organization was founded in 1935 to set standards for camps?
(Answers: 1. November 19; 2. Frederick and Abigail Gunn; 3. American Camp Association)
FAQs
- What is National Camp Day?
National Camp Day celebrates the joys of camping and encourages people to explore outdoor activities. - Why is summer camp important?
Summer camps help children build friendships, gain self-confidence, and learn new skills in a fun environment.
Importance of National Camp Day
National Camp Day emphasizes the value of spending time outdoors, building life skills, and fostering community through shared experiences. Whether it’s an overnight adventure or a day camp experience, camping offers unique opportunities for personal growth and connection with nature.
Related Days
- Earth Day
- National Hiking Day
- Great Outdoors Month
- Family Camping Weekend