Young People’s Outdoor Recreation and State Park Use

Perceived Benefits from the Parent/Guardian Perspective

Abstract

This study examined adult (i.e., parent or guardian) reported metrics of young people’s (age 0 to 17 years) outdoor recreation participation, state park use, and recreation-related benefits across a demographically diverse population in north Georgia. Methods includedon-site (n = 1,039) and off-site(n = 279) intercept survey sampling in state parks and flea markets near the parks. Results revealed most guardians were aware of youth recreation benefits and particularly valued communal recreation experiences such as interactions with family and friends in outdoor environments. State parks were particularly popular locations for socially oriented recreation, especially for Latino families. Results suggest that understanding of young people’s recreation and park use patterns could be enhanced through closer examinationof adult perceptions regarding children and youths’ time outdoors.