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National Camp Day

Unplug, explore, and have an adventure on National Camp Day - pack your bags and head outdoors for a day of fun!

Thursday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATENovember 19

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYTravel

SUBCATEGORYCamping

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to pack your bags and get ready for National Camp Day on Nov. 19! This day has been around since the early 20th century as a way to celebrate the joys of camping, which can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you prefer pitching a tent in the woods or sleeping under the stars by a campfire, this is a chance to reconnect with nature, enjoy some quality family time, and make lasting memories. So grab your friends and family, fire up the grill, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

TIMELINE

National Camp Day Timeline

First Organized Camp

The first organized camp, Gunnery Camp, was established in the United States, marking the beginning of a legacy.

Camp Association Formation

The American Camp Association was founded to share knowledge and set standards for camps across the US.

Camp Inclusion

Efforts towards integrating camps began, breaking the barriers of race, religion, and socioeconomic status in camping.

Environmental Awareness

Environmental education became a prevalent part of camping, aimed at creating responsible citizens who respect nature.

Digital Detox Movement

As technology became increasingly ubiquitous, camps started promoting "digital detox" initiatives.

National Camp Day

The tradition of National Camp Day was solidified, promoting the joys and benefits of camping.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Camp Day

Pack a picnic

Invite your family and friends and pack a picnic for a day of camping. Bring sandwiches, chips, fruit, and drinks and maybe some s'mores for dessert.

Go camping

Whether you stay in a tent or an RV, go camping and enjoy the fresh air, stunning views, and peacefulness of nature.

SET

Set up camp in your backyard

If you don't have the time to go camping the traditional way, set up camp in your backyard. You can pitch a tent and get a fire pit going for some delicious smores.

MAKE

Make an obstacle course

Set up an obstacle course with household items like hula hoops, chairs, and broomsticks so that everyone can have fun trying to make it through the course as fast as they can.

Go stargazing

Lay out some blankets and pillows and spend the evening stargazing. Look for constellations or find shooting stars in the night sky.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Camp Day

Camping brings families closer together

Getting out into nature presents an opportunity for families to put aside their differences, share exciting experiences and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Spending time outside in the fresh air bonding with family is unbeatable!

Camping is a great way to get outdoors

No matter where you go, camping will give you a chance to unplug, explore nature and connect with your loved ones. Whether in your own backyard or touring a new park, camping allows you to experience the beauty of the outdoors while creating lifelong memories.

Camping can be an educational experience

Camping not only provides physical activities, but it also has the potential to be a learning experience as well. You can teach kids about reading a map, following important safety instructions, telling stories around the campfire, preparing meals together and more!