A recent national camping report tracks with news from a year ago: More people are looking to extend their camping experiences into winter, according to the StarTribune.
Whether it is a hut or a tent, 38% of people surveyed told Kampgrounds of America (KOA) they definitely planned to get out this year — up from 17% in 2022.
Considering camping is regarded as a “gateway” activity — people who try camping are likely to do other activities outdoors — its increased popularity matters to parks and campground managers. According to the Outdoor Industry Association’s 2023 participation report, camping was up 29%, year to year, from 2020 through 2022, with 51.4 million campers.
Extending camping seasons from summer and fall into winter isn’t a new concept in Minnesota, but no doubt some Minnesotans who started camping during the COVID-19 pandemic are considering new options. What about in winter?
Simple camper cabins in Minnesota — in state, regional and county park systems or private enterprises — are worth a look.
Outdoors writer Tom Watson of Appleton, Minn., has devoted a guidebook to the topic: “Best Minnesota Camper Cabins.”
“I tell people that the camper cabins are a good way to break into winter camping,” Watson told the Star Tribune. “You still do much outside but have the shelter for sleeping, bad weather, a safe haven if your outside ‘classroom’ gets the better of you.”
