Activity selection among baby boomer national park visitors: The search for a sense of adventure

Abstract

The U.S. population continues to age, and the large baby boomer cohort is a major influencer. The activity selection of baby boomer visitors to national parks is therefore explored. The literature suggests baby boomers are a group with diverse outdoor interests. Some are interested in adventurous pursuits, while others are interested in more tame forms of recreation. A quantitative study was conducted in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI) in California to see if this cohort is unique in terms of outdoor activity interests. In-person surveys collected at SEKI were used to obtain a sample of 403 individuals within the baby boomer age range. The findings suggest that a majority of baby boomers prefer to participate in outdoor activities in SEKI. They see themselves as healthy and active, and enjoy participating in moderate to strenuous, somewhat risky outdoor activities. Management implicationsFor park managers, this research identifies the activities in which baby boomers choose to participate. This research will allow for informed decisions to be made, such as whether to modify existing signage, educate the cohort on the potential resource issues of entering the backcountry with little to no training or experience, and determine whether some resources near developed areas should be made more accessible. Baby boomer visitors are more active than the typical visitor; they engage in many outdoor recreation activities. At the same time, they are aging and may be less prepared for some of the activities they seek out. Overall, this research may enable park managers to adapt by tailoring communication and perhaps facilities and offerings to the large baby boomer cohort.