Assessing the environment: The relationship between perceived physical setting attributes and visitor satisfaction by Bravo Rivera, Sandra, Ph.D., The University of New Mexico, 1997, 214 pages; AAT 9736096
Abstract (Summary)
The purpose of this study was to Survey the characteristics of the campers who use the forest reserves of Puerto Rico. More specifically to examine the nature and complexity of the relationship that exists between physical attributes (environmental settings) and outdoor recreation experience preference (satisfaction) of visitors to the forest areas of the island.
The data from the 34 participants in the survey indicated that the primary reasons to go camping were: a desire to enjoy nature, to be with similar people, and to rest and escape from physical and personal pressures. Other reasons were to get away from noise and experience tranquility, help release tension, and experience new things.
The natural elements that were considered most attractive to campers were: hills and mountains, streams and waterfalls, shrubs and trees, and natural events such as sunrise and sunsets, moon and stars. Other things deemed important were: creeks and rivers, distance from developed areas, climate, temperatures, the scenic view, aquatic life, and lakes and lagoons. Critical factors about the sites (campsites) concerned mainly managerial aspects. Among them, harmony between facilities and environment, sleeping spaces, and maintenance provided.
The forest factors considered critical were related directly to the environment. Campers prefer secluded, accessible areas in "natural" state, with minimal alterations to environment, in which one does not feel crowded. In considering the relationship of attributes with satisfaction it was found that the natural elements are moderately related to motivations and income. These two are the most influential in the decision to visit a particular forest.
Analysis of data showed that attributes of the campsite area contributed the most (97.1%) to satisfaction. Factors pertaining to the natural elements contributed similarly (97%). Data supports that satisfaction with campsite is a good predictor of satisfaction with forest reserve. Recommendations for managers were formulated based upon findings.
Indexing (document details)
School: The University of New Mexico
School Location: United States -- New Mexico
Keyword(s): Puerto Rico, camping
Source: DAI-A 58/06, p. 2389, Dec 1997
Source type: Dissertation
Subjects: Recreation, Management, Public administration, Forestry, Marketing
Publication Number: AAT 9736096
ISBN: 9780591459586
Document URL: http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=740111781&sid=13&Fmt=2&cl
ientId=45091&RQT=309&VName=PQD
ProQuest document ID: 740111781
Databases selected: Dissertations & Theses
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