demographics

A landmark study by Kampgrounds of America (KOA) identifies the needs of campers with disabilities

Campgrounds offer an idyllic landscape to adventurous travelers: sun-kissed trees, the scent of pine in the air, and families and friends sharing stories around the campfire. But the beautiful scene isn’t attainable for everyone as a recent study by Kampgrounds of America (KOA) revealed. KOA surveyed a percentage of campers at its 500+ campgrounds in the US and Canada and found some eye-opening statistics about the needs of campers with disabilities. 

 1. The Disability Divide:

• 27% of U.S. residents report having a disability. These are our neighbors, colleagues, and friends—individuals navigating life with unique challenges.
• Now, consider the campers. 38% of them also identify as having a disability. Campers are 41% more likely to have a disability than the average U.S. resident.

2. Beyond the Surface: Factors Impacting Accessibility:

• Visual Impairment:
  • Among U.S. residents, 12% grapple with visual impairments. The world appears through a different lens for them.
  • Campers, too, face this reality. 16% of them navigate trails, campfires, and sunsets with altered vision. Yet, they persist, guided by determination and perhaps the rustle of leaves underfoot.
• Cognition:
  • Cognitive disabilities—including neurodiversity and autism spectrum disorder affect 13% of U.S. residents, Within the camping community, this percentage more than doubles as 27% of campers wrestle with cognitive challenges. 
• Hearing
  • For 6% of U.S. residents, hearing impairment shapes their world. Yet, they find solace in nature’s symphony. Among campers, 11% navigate the same trails, attuned to vibrations, sign language, and the silent beauty of dawn breaking over the horizon.

3. The Call for Inclusivity:

• Campgrounds, take note: ramps, accessible facilities, and thoughtful design matter. Let’s bridge the gap between adventure and accessibility.
• Because when campers—regardless of ability—sit by the fire, they share not only s’mores but also stories of resilience, laughter, and the wild beauty that binds us all.
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Following the lead of more and more state and national parks, Kampgrounds of America, are joining the movement to improve and increase access to beautiful, natural, and often remote outdoor spaces. 

Senior executives from Kampgrounds of America will be participating in panels at the  Travelability EMS Summit in San Francisco, November 13-15 about their plans to implement  more accessibility features along with staff and franchisee training to be more welcoming for everyone.