Why camping is good for you

The Outjoyment Report is a comprehensive study examining why camping is good for you. The report uncovers the positive impacts of immersing oneself in nature by camping in the great outdoors.

It surveys campers and non-campers to research the hopeful outcomes of camping on mental health and overall wellbeing.

Furthermore, it takes an in-depth look at improving health, creating a sense of community and increasing joy for those who choose to make camping a lifestyle.

I know why camping is good for you; however, I wanted to uncover some of the research here to encourage you to go camping and spend time in nature, as is The Shameer Shah Project’s motivation.

Why camping is good for you – Top 10 results from the research

Happiness

More than 97% of campers say that experiencing joy is the primary reason for their camping trips, and nearly half report feeling joyful almost every day, compared to only 35% of those who don’t camp. Enjoying the outdoors and reconnecting with nature is an excellent way to cultivate happiness and contentment!

Mental Health

For those who frequently camp, 44% are experiencing optimal mental health compared to 31% of non-campers. Going camping more often increases this even further and is one of the core reasons why camping is good for you.

Anxiety

For 91% of people, camping is a relaxation refuge – they experience 23% less anxiety than those who don’t camp. So if you want to reduce stress and unwind, going outdoors might be your ticket to tranquillity.

Connection to Nature

For 93% of people, heading outdoors to appreciate the beauty of nature is among their highest priorities in life — right behind wanting to be happy.

Outdoor Activities

Venturing outdoors is a popular activity among campers, with 98% participating. Of this group, 91% prefer invigorating walks, 39% opt for a cycling adventure, and another 26% take pleasure in bird-watching excursions.

Wellbeing

93% of campers appreciate the physical and emotional benefits of setting up camp, a notable jump from the 85% reported previously.

Stress

Nearly 9 out of 10 campers take advantage of their time in the great outdoors to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience improved psychological wellbeing compared to those who don’t camp. Stress is scientifically known to be dangerous and hence, another reason why camping is good for you.

Hikers & Walkers

Going on a camping trip is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and move! A whopping 91% of campers take advantage of this and go hiking on their holiday! With plenty of natural beauty to explore, it’s an excellent way to stay active and healthy.

Nature Prescription

83% of participants expressed optimism about medical professionals prescribing nature as a reliable treatment for poor mental health. This sentiment has grown since the earlier survey; only 58% agreed.

Camping for Schools

Parents overwhelmingly recognise the value of outdoor education for their children – an endorsement which has grown dramatically since 2011, when only 59% reported being in favour. The current number overwhelmingly shows that 93% of families think camping as part of the curriculum is wise!

Why camping is good for you – The Outjoyment Report

The Outjoyment Report uncovered how camping and embracing nature could positively impact people’s lives and why camping is good for you. From improving mental health to creating a closer sense of community and beyond, these findings reveal how powerful getting out into nature, including camping, can be.

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