Chongming's park camping craze reflects urbanites' nature hunger

2025-06-16 09:00


On sunny holidays, the open lawns of Chongming New City Park often transform into a sea of scattered tents. This modern incarnation of "making the sky one's roof" reflects urban dwellers' profound yearning for nature's healing embrace.

QQ20250511-083938.png

QQ20250511-083927.png


"Every weekend or holiday, the lawns are packed with campers—families with children, couples picnicking, friends playing badminton or frisbee," a park staff member shared. "Arrive late, and you might not find a spot."

What makes New City Park so popular? According to staff, as the largest public park in Chongming—designated a "five-star park" by Shanghai Landscaping & City Appearance Bureau—it showcases idyllic aquatic landscapes. Ingenious water features and pristine natural designs elevate its garden-city charm, while serving as the urban area's "natural oxygen bar." Now a landmark, it stands as Chongming's most distinctive urban green space.

Camping here transcends Instagrammable moments—it's a lifestyle aesthetic fostering family bonds. In recent years, lawn camping has captivated residents and visitors alike with its outdoor leisure, social connection, and green-living appeal. However, park officials note that while the camping boom revitalizes parks and scenic areas, surging visitor numbers also test ecological carrying capacity, necessitating guidance toward sustainable, low-impact practices.