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College of Natural Resources
Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor Recreation - Areas of Research -Parks Recreation and Tourism Management NC State

Preserving the Great Outdoors

Outdoor recreation is one of our country’s most important and popular pastimes. In addition to generating billions of dollars in spending and millions of jobs, it also provides communities with a wide range of health benefits. Recent trends suggest an increasing awareness of the disparities in access across communities and more public demand for equity and inclusion.

We collaborate with federal, state, and municipal agencies to help inform management and decision-making processes related to outdoor recreation resources. Our research produces data on a variety of issues including but not limited to participation rates, visitor behaviors, satisfaction and well-being, user conflict, accessibility to parks, carrying capacity, policy and regulation in natural resource management, and conservation funding structures. Findings provide insights on equity, inclusion and diversity; human health and well-being; youth engagement and citizen science; resource conservation and stewardship; along with marketing outcomes and conservation funding structures.

This work helps land managers balance their dual mission of simultaneously promoting conservation and generating positive visitor experiences for all people.

Our Research in Action

Playground Durham Park - Outdoor Recreation - Parks Recreation and Tourism Management NC State

Study Raises Questions About Access to Urban Parks During the Pandemic

The findings underscore the need to make sure that all people, across racial, ethnic, and income levels, have access to parks in urban areas.
Matthew Arevian in a Snowy Environment - Outdoor Recreation - Parks Recreation and Tourism Management NC State

For Teens, Outdoor Recreation During the Pandemic Linked to Improved Well-Being

A study from NC State found outdoor play and nature-based activities helped buffer some of the negative mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for adolescents.

Meet Our Experts

Interested in outdoor recreation research? Contact our faculty to learn more and get involved.