The Impact of Families Camping Together: Opportunities for Personal and Social Development

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of the camping experience on a community of families. The research questions were: What is the meaning of the camping experience? How does the camping experience influence its participants? We used an auto-ethnographic method (two of the authors participated in the camping program) and a questionnaire to conduct the investigation. The research occurred in the Czech Republic with nine families composed of 14 adults and 14 children. Our findings indicate that the interplay among community, spirituality, nature, and family defines such a camping experience. In turn, this leads to stronger family bonds, confidence and self-reliance in the outdoors, and a greater sense of adaptability for the individual.