Camping

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**Camping Definition and History:**
– Camping involves staying outdoors for one or more days in a tent.
– It encompasses various outdoor accommodation approaches.
– The recreational camping concept is credited to Thomas Hiram Holding in the UK.
– The Camping and Caravanning Club was established in 1901.
– Camping gained popularity in the US in the early 20th century.
– The International Federation of Camping Clubs was founded in 1932.

**Types of Camping:**
– Canoe camping, car camping, RVing, and backpacking are common types.
Glamping combines luxury with camping.
– Workamping involves labor exchange for campsite discounts or pay.
– Migrant camps offer temporary housing.
– Camping is popular at events like air shows.

**Religious Camping and Equipment:**
– Camp meetings in Evangelical Christianity promote spiritual renewal.
– Campgrounds and conference centers offer retreats for spiritual growth.
– Camp Agape in Tennessee is an example of religious camping.
– Camping equipment varies based on activities and preferences.
– Proper gear ensures comfort and safety during camping.

**Camping Popularity and Trends:**
– Camping is gaining popularity in the US and the UK.
– France sees millions of nights spent at campsites annually.
– Canada offers camping opportunities year-round.
– Australia has a rich camping heritage with diverse camping grounds.
– Different countries have unique camping trends and statistics.

**Public Access and Camping Regulations:**
– Sweden and Scotland allow camping on open land.
– Sweden’s Allemansrätten grants public access to nature.
Scotland has an Outdoor Access Code for camping.
– Camping regulations vary in different regions.
– Resources and guidelines on camping laws and public access rights are available.

Camping (Wikipedia)

Camping is a form of outdoor recreation or outdoor education involving overnight stays with a basic temporary shelter such as a tent. Camping can also include a recreational vehicle, sheltered cabins, a permanent tent, a shelter such as a bivy or tarp, or no shelter at all. Typically, participants leave developed areas to spend time outdoors, in pursuit of activities providing them enjoyment or in a form of educational experience. Spending the night away from home distinguishes camping from day-tripping, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.

Tent camping in Sierra Nevada National Park
Tent camping in Turkey

Camping as a recreational activity became popular among elites in the early 20th century. With time, it grew in popularity among other socioeconomic classes. Modern campers frequent publicly owned natural resources such as national and state parks, wilderness areas, and commercial campgrounds. In few countries, including Sweden and Scotland, public camping is legal on privately held land as well. Camping is a key part of many youth organizations around the world, such as Scouting, which use it to teach both self-reliance and teamwork. School camping trips also have numerous benefits and can play an essential role in the personal growth and development of students.

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