National Camping Day is an annual celebration dedicated to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, encouraging people to embrace the wilderness and experience the joy of camping. It’s a day to unplug from daily routines and reconnect with nature through camping activities.
Quick Facts
When is it?: November 19
Tagged as: Outdoor Recreation Day
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCampingDay
When was it founded?: Early 20th century
Who founded it?: Camping enthusiasts and outdoor recreation advocates
History
The tradition of organized camping in America began in 1861 when Frederick and Abigail Gunn took their school boys on a two-week camping expedition in Connecticut. This pioneering trip included hiking, fishing, and trapping activities. The concept evolved from simple outdoor activities to specialized camps focusing on various interests, from traditional wilderness camping to modern themed camps.
Timeline
- 1855: First modern canvas tent design (Sibley tent) created by US Army
- 1874: First YWCA camp “Sea Rest” established in Pennsylvania
- 1910: Boy Scouts of America established
- 1912: First Girl Scout camp built in Georgia
- 1957: Coleman introduces the camping cooler
- 1959: First freestanding tent introduced by Eureka
Dates for Coming Years
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | November | 19 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | November | 19 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | November | 19 | Thursday |
| 2027 | November | 19 | Friday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by organizing camping trips, hosting backyard campouts, learning outdoor skills, and participating in nature hikes. Many organize camping-themed parties with traditional activities like storytelling around campfires and making s’mores.
Fun Facts About Camping
- Yellowstone, established in 1872, is the world’s first national park
- Approximately 48 million Americans go camping annually
- S’mores became a campfire tradition in the 1920s
- There are over 113,000 federally managed campsites in the US
Quiz
- When was the first organized American camping trip?
- What year was the first Girl Scout camp established?
- How many federally managed campsites exist in the US?
(Answers: 1861, 1912, 113,000)
FAQs
- Can camping chairs get wet? Yes, they’re typically water resistant
- Is camping good for health? Yes, it reduces stress and increases physical fitness
- What essential items should I bring? Tent, sleeping bags, flashlight, multi-tool, sunscreen
Related Days
- National Camping Month (June)
- National Wildlife Day
- Great Outdoors Month
- National Trails Day
- National Parks Week