Revisit the Best of the ‘80s With the (Re)Creation Vacation Trend

    Camping in 2025 is all about nostalgia according to Campspot’s latest trend report; travelers are looking to relive the best outdoor experiences of their childhood. The (Re)Creation Vacation blends recreation with re-creating cherished memories. In a survey conducted by Campspot, 57% of respondents said they would give up a full week’s salary just to relive a childhood camping experience! And the top destinations making a comeback? These iconic spots across the country are seeing a resurgence in popularity and they may hit you in your own nostalgic feels. 

    WEST 

    1. West Yellowstone, MT – Why a popular 80’s destination? In 1972, Yellowstone celebrated its 100th anniversary as the first national park, sparking renewed interest throughout the following decade.
    2. Grand Canyon, AZ – Why a popular 80’s destination? In the 1980s, tourism boards and national parks, including the Grand Canyon, began ramping up marketing efforts, making national parks more prominent in travel brochures and media.
    3. Yosemite, CA – Why a popular 80’s destination? The 1980s saw an increase in the awareness of environmental and conservation issues. As one of the U.S.’s most famous natural areas, Yosemite became a symbol for the growing eco-tourism movement

    MIDWEST 

    1. Traverse City, MI – Why a popular 80’s destination? Traverse City, known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” attracted visitors with its annual National Cherry Festival and, in the 1980s, the burgeoning wine industry, driven by the area’s ideal climate for grape growing, solidified its reputation as a wine destination.
    2. Rapid City, SD – Why a popular 80’s destination? As the United States celebrated its 200th anniversary in 1976, the 1980s saw continued national pride and interest in iconic American landmarks like Mount Rushmore.
    3. Duluth, MN – Why a popular 80’s destination? As interest in the Great Lakes region among Midwesterners grew during the 1980s, Duluth’s location on the shores of Lake Superior made it a prime stop for travelers seeking lakeside fun.

    SOUTH 

    1. Miami, FL – Why a popular 80’s destination? Miami Beach, particularly South Beach, became a hub for vacationers seeking sun and sand and the city’s reputation as a beach destination was firmly cemented during this time.
    2. Gatlinburg, TN – Why a popular 80’s destination? The 1980s saw an increase in the popularity of cabin and chalet rentals, and Gatlinburg’s proximity to the Smoky Mountains made it an ideal location for these types of accommodations.
    3. South Padre Island, TX – Why a popular 80’s destination? South Padre Island became a popular destination for “Winter Texans,” retirees and snowbirds from colder northern states who spent their winters in warmer climates. The 1980s saw an influx of these seasonal residents.

    NORTHEAST 

    1. Bar Harbor, ME – Why a popular 80’s destination? Being the gateway to Acadia National Park, 1986 marked Acadia’s 70th anniversary with a series of events that attracted attention from across the country from people wanting to experience the park’s natural beauty.
    2. Lake George, NY – Why a popular 80’s destination? In the 1980s, Bill Morgan and the Wolgin family built a 72-foot-long replica of a 19th-century touring vessel called The Morgan. The boat transported guests to views of the Adirondacks.
    3. 3. Stowe, VT – Why a popular 80’s destination? In the late 1980s, Stowe’s iconic brand, once tarnished, was revitalized under Mount Mansfield Company with upgrades to lifts and snowmaking, restoring its top-tier reputation.

    With many campers yearning for the carefree summers of their youth, these destinations offer the perfect chance to disconnect and rediscover the simple joys of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re planning a road trip or a family retreat, the (Re)Creation Vacation trend invites you to step back in time while making new memories. 

    Find Your Perfect Camping Spot! Ready to relive your best childhood camping experiences? Search and book your next trip today with any of the linked nostalgic spots above or right here with GoCampingAmerica.com. 

    Read Campspot’s full nostalgic travel trend report here.