Recreational Demand Models

Recreational demand models analyze how people decide whether to visit outdoor or leisure sites, like parks, beaches, or ski resorts. They consider factors such as the cost of visiting (travel expenses, entry fees), personal preferences, and the quality of the experience. These models help predict how many visitors an area might attract under different conditions, guiding resource management, policy decisions, and infrastructure planning. By understanding what influences visitation, stakeholders can optimize the availability, accessibility, and sustainability of recreational sites to better serve the public and protect natural resources.