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I think selfdetermination theory (SDT) could provide some input on this subject. SDT is a theory revolving around human motivation, which includes a distinction of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
Intrinsically motivated actions carry the purpose in itself - loving, eating and socializing are all intrinsic forms of motivation.
Extrinsically motivated actions are means to an end - working to recieve your paycheck as an example.
Furthermore SDT states three basic human needs - the need for competence, autonomy and relations.
When we apply this theory to being /out/, I think we are motivated to outdoor activities as they fulfill two of our basic human needs - competence and autonomy.
We choose our own actions when we walk, pitch a tent, make a fire and cook dinner. This is the need for autonomy.
We also have the opportunity to experience competence in a very direct way - we see the results of our actions (walking, cooking, making campifres etc), which fulfills our need for competence.
This makes being /out/ a very intrinsically motivated experience, seeing as we - to some degree - go /out/ for the sake of being /out/. It fulfills our basic needs for being a competent agent in the world.
Add a friend or two and you fulfill the last basic need for relations, and voilá - /out/ can be the most intrinsically motivating thing for a human bean.
