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.
"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.