A large-scale survey of camping tourism has revealed that while campers value nature, peace and tranquillity, they are not willing to compromise on cleanliness.

According to the research, 97% of campers consider clean, high-quality toilet and shower facilities, together with hot water, to be essential campsite amenities.

A total of 5,311 campers participated in The Big Small Camping Survey 2026, conducted by Kampeermeneer during July and August 2025.

The findings show that although atmosphere and a natural environment are important when choosing smaller campsites, the quality of sanitary facilities has become one of the main factors directly influencing guest satisfaction.

According to the survey:

• 97% expect clean, high-quality sanitary facilities and hot showers.
• 84% expect toilet paper to be available in campsite toilets.
• 86% regard dirty or poorly functioning toilet and shower facilities as a major source of dissatisfaction.
• 14.7% expect private toilet and shower facilities to be available even at smaller campsites.
• The fact that 86% of respondents identified dirty or poorly maintained sanitary facilities as one of their main complaints shows that hygiene is not simply an additional service.

A campsite may attract guests with its natural setting, peaceful atmosphere and personal service, but unclean toilets and showers can significantly damage the overall guest experience.

The expectation for private sanitary facilities, expressed by almost one in seven campers, also points to a changing market. This figure suggests that guests choosing smaller campsites increasingly expect not only basic camping amenities, but also greater privacy, hygiene and personal comfort.

• The research also found that 82% of campers value nature,
• 72% value peace and spacious surroundings,
• 71% appreciate the small-scale character of campsites, and
• 71% value personal attention and hospitality.

However, the strong emphasis on hygiene shows that these qualities must be supported by clean, reliable and well-maintained sanitary facilities. For campsite operators, the findings demonstrate that clean toilets, hot showers and regular maintenance can no longer be treated as basic background services.

Private toilet and shower units can provide an additional solution for guests seeking greater hygiene, privacy and comfort without using shared sanitary buildings.

Source: Caravana, Research by Kampeermeneer: Small Campsites Are Extremely Popular, but Campers Are Concerned, 26 January 2026. The figures are based on The Big Small Camping Survey 2026, conducted by Kampeermeneer with 5,311 campers during July and August 2025.