According to a survey of 11,000 camping families carried out by the Institute of Education at Plymouth University and The Camping and Caravanning Club, children who camp at least once a year go on to do better at school, as well as being healthier and happier.

Both parents and children from across the UK were asked a series of questions which looked at the educational, psychological and social benefits of the camping experience to children of all ages.

The research found that more than 80% of parents thought that camping had a positive effect on their children’s school education. It also showed that 98% of parents said camping makes their offspring appreciate and connect with nature, whilst 95% said their kids were happier when camping and 93% felt that it provided useful life skills.

Some parents reported that escaping technology – such as laptops, tablets and mobiles – is a good thing for their children and one of the benefits of camping. A fifth of parents added that camping gives their kids freedom, independence and confidence; and more than two thirds (68%) felt that camping helped their children to enjoy learning in the classroom because they can share their camping adventures and experiences such as visiting educational or historical sites.

The children who took part in the research were asked what they love about camping and the most common themes were making and meeting new friends, having fun, playing outside and learning camping skills. Children also recognised camping’s value for curriculum subjects and for problem solving and working together.

Milsted Langdon believes that holiday parks should promote the advantages of camping and knows that long-term strategic planning is a key step to holiday parks maximising their performance and reaching their full potential. Milsted Langdon’s specialists will work with you to identify where you are now and where you want to be in the future, as well as defining your objectives and the actions you need to achieve them. We can help with issues including cash flow projections and forecasting to support proposals for funding for new developments and assist in raising finance. For more information, please contact us.