Outdoor Recreation Reaches a Record Participation Level

Outdoor recreation continues to attract millions of people in 2026, although participation patterns are changing.

The Outdoor Industry Association and Outdoor Foundation’s 2026 Outdoor Participation Trends Report found that 183.2 million Americans participated in outdoor recreation in 2025, representing 59% of the U.S. population aged six and older. The figure marks an all-time high.

However, the report also highlights an important shift: people are participating, but many are going outdoors less frequently than they did before the pandemic.

More Participants, Fewer Outings

The growing number of outdoor participants does not necessarily mean everyone is becoming a frequent adventurer.

According to the report, the average participant now takes five fewer outdoor outings per year than in 2019. This has created what the Outdoor Industry Association describes as a frequency gap.

The trend suggests that casual participation is becoming increasingly important across the outdoor market.

People may go hiking, camping, running or paddling occasionally without making outdoor recreation a weekly routine.

Hiking Continues to Attract Millions

Hiking remains a major part of the outdoor recreation landscape.

The Outdoor Industry Association reports that 63.4 million Americans went hiking in 2024, making hiking the most popular outdoor recreation activity in the country. The report also found that the number of core hikers—those hiking 13 or more times annually—has continued to grow.

Hiking also acts as an entry point into other outdoor activities. More than 90% of hikers participate in other outdoor pursuits, according to OIA data.

Younger and Older Participants Show Growth

The latest participation data also points to growth among several demographic groups.

Children ages six to 12 added 5% in participation to reach 22.6 million, while adults aged 65 and older added approximately 800,000 participants in one year. Hispanic participation also increased by 6.5%, while women reached a participation rate of 53.4%.

These changes demonstrate that outdoor recreation is attracting people across different age groups and backgrounds.

What the Trend Means for Outdoor Brands

For outdoor brands and retailers, the challenge may increasingly be about encouraging existing participants to participate more often.

Products that make outdoor activities easier and more accessible could appeal to casual participants. Lightweight equipment, comfortable clothing and beginner-friendly gear may remain important as more people experiment with outdoor activities.

Camping is another area receiving attention. OIA describes casual camping as a significant opportunity because camping can introduce people to hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities.

The Outdoor Market Enters a New Phase

The latest data paints a mixed but significant picture. Outdoor participation has reached a record level, yet frequency is becoming a central issue for the industry.

For consumers, the trend reflects a broader interest in accessible outdoor experiences rather than necessarily intensive adventure. For businesses, it creates an opportunity to develop products, services and experiences that encourage people to spend more time outside.

As outdoor recreation continues evolving in 2026, the next stage may depend not only on attracting new participants but also on helping casual participants turn occasional outdoor activities into regular habits.