Some principles to guide wilderness campsite management

Abstract

Seven principles, derived from research on wilderness campsites, are proposed: (1) campsite impacts are complex; (2) impact is inevitable with repetitive use of campsites; (3) impact occurs rapidly, recovery occurs slowly; (4) the relationship between use and impact is asymptotic; (5) certain sites are more durable than others; (6) certain users cause less impact than others; and (7) campsite monitoring data are critical to professional management. Each principle is illustrated by example and the implications of each for campsite management are explored.

Citation

Cole, David N. 1990. Some principles to guide wilderness campsite management. In: Lime, David W., ed. Managing America’s enduring wilderness resource: Proceedings of the Conference; Minneapolis, Minnesota; September 11-17, 1989. St. Paul, MN: University of Minnesota, Tourism Center; Minnesota Extension Service; Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station. p. 181-187.