Who visits the U.S. National Parks? An analysis of park visitors and visitation: 19902008

This study examines U.S. National Park visitation from 1990 through 2008. Using data from the Visitor Services Project of the Park Studies Unit at the University of Idaho, 180 different National Park Service units are analyzed on the basis of nine variables common to all park units, such as group size, distance traveled, and first-time visitation. Data are also analyzed by four park types that have been created for the study: Type I, natural parks/monuments; Type II, recreation areas/shorelines; Type III, military parks/battlefields; and Type IV, historical/cultural parks. Data show specific differences for the four park types on the basis of several of the demographic and travel variables. Implications are provided for managers wanting to use these data to improve their understanding of visitor demand, market segmentation, and programme delivery. Future research is proposed to learn more about the visitor experience, visitation trends, and data sharing. 2010 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Who visits the U.S. National Parks? An analysis of park visitors and visitation: 19902008 Academic Article