Is there a shared idea of "wilderness" among outdoor recreationists?: evidence from three recreation sites

Abstract

Little empirical research has been conducted on what “wilderness” means to the general public. This paper compares the definitions of wilderness held by four groups of outdoor recreationists at three very different sites—Grand Canyon National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and Pandapas Pond, a day-use area in the Jefferson National Forest. These groups had different demographics, setting preferences and activity preferences. Although few respondents believed they knew about the legal definition of wilderness, they expressed very high agreement within and across groups about the appropriateness of features such as wildlife, virgin forest and rugged terrain. There was less consensus about shelters, developed trails and improved campsites.

Parent Publication

• Wilderness science in a time of change conference-Volume 3: Wilderness as a place for scientific inquiry; 1999 May 23-27; Missoula, MT

Citation

Kendra, Angelina M.; Hall, Troy E. 2000. Is there a shared idea of "wilderness" among outdoor recreationists?: evidence from three recreation sites. In: McCool, Stephen F.; Cole, David N.; Borrie, William T.; O’Loughlin, Jennifer, comps. 2000. Wilderness science in a time of change conference—Volume 3: Wilderness as a place for scientific inquiry; 1999 May 23–27; Missoula, MT. Proceedings RMRS-P-15-VOL-3. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 188-195