Universal campsite design: an opportunity for adaptive management

Abstract

The basic design of campsites has changed little since the 1930s in Yosemite National Park. In heavily used areas, such as Yosemite Valley, this design is leading to environmental impacts from soil compaction, erosion, vegetation damage, and lack of regeneration for many plant species. These sites are also inaccessible to many people with physical disabilities. In the spring of 1998, four campsite prototypes were installed in an effort mitigate some of these environmental impacts, as well as address accessibility issues for the physically disabled. Special features of these designs included: (1) a flat parking-campsite surface of crushed granite, (2) a clearly defined, permanent boundary for the campsites, (3) new designs for picnic tables, food storage lockers, and campfire rings. These prototypes were evaluated using a survey questionnaire and systematic daily observations. The results indicate that the new designs are indeed an improvement. The value of evaluating design prototypes as an adaptive management tool is discussed and recommendations are suggested.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the 2000 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium

Citation

Biscombe, Jason R.; Hall, Jeri E.; Palmer, James F. 2001. Universal campsite design: an opportunity for adaptive management. In: Kyle, Gerard, comp., ed. 2001. Proceedings of the 2000 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium. Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-276. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station. 150-154