The Science Behind Why Camping Makes You Happy

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Better Family Cohesiveness

You know the scene well. You pull into a campsite and someone starts delegating: "You start unpacking, you set up the tent, and I'll grab the wood."

These tasks differ from the mundane chores of everyday life and give everyone a chance to show what they can do outside of the house.

"Families find that they take on different roles and realize that their partner or kids have skills that maybe they didn't even know they had," according to TPSBCE.

In the report, children also noted that their parents were more fun and less likely to shout or get mad. With a lack of stress and abundance of sunshine and fresh air, everyone can unwind, even hyperactive children.

The American Journal of Public Health found that these children were relaxed within minutes of being in a green space. Happy parents and happy kids equates to a happier family.

More: Reap the Benefits of Family Camping

Better Health at All Ages

What's the secret to feeling younger? According to TPSBCE it's camping; 83 percent of people 75 years of age and older said they feel especially active for their age, while only 66 percent of non-campers felt the same way.

Not to mention, 73 percent of campers ages 26 to 40 feel healthier for their age compared with 49 percent of non-campers. Being active makes you happy and exercise helps relieve stress, so it only makes sense that active campers, both young and old, are happier. 

More: Do Your Kids Suffer From Nature Deficit Disorder?

You Can Be Yourself

In a world where everyone is trying to be someone else, which can be a significant aspect of unhappiness, camping seems to provide a respite from that stress. In fact, 80 percent of campers agreed that camping allows you to be yourself, while 75 percent of campers agreed that camping is a great people leveler—everyone chops wood, cooks dinner, and cleans camp with little to no hierarchy involved. 

"When we consider that our findings showed that spending time with friends and family was what made people happy in their lives, then it seems as though camping really can play an important role in bringing people together in a more socially inclusive and community spirited way," according to TPSBCE.

More: 5 Urban Myths About Camping Debunked

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