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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine camper opinion on whether or not furred pets should be permitted in state park campgrounds within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The study was commissioned so that Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks administrators could make informed decisions regarding the direction of pet policy. Surveys were taken at 10 state parks throughout the summer camping season of 2001. The results typically showed greater differences between pet owners and non pet owners than between Pennsylvania residents and non residents. Overall, about 73% of respondents were in favor of permitting pets in campgrounds. Additionally, the majority expressed that if pets were allowed, they would not change the frequency of their visits. Of those who said the frequency of their visits would change, more indicated an increase. It is recommended that pets be permitted in state park campgrounds, but that careful consideration should also be given to developing a management plan that meets the needs of campground visitors while protecting park resources.
Parent Publication
Citation
Lisco, John F.; Sauder, Ryan. 2003. Camper attitudes and perceptions concerning the presence of pets in ten Pennsylvania state park campgrounds. In: Schuster, Rudy, comp., ed. Proceedings of the 2002 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium. Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-302. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station. 240-245
