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Monitoring Recreation on Federally Managed Lands and Waters—Visitation Estimation

Scientific Investigations Report 2025-5022
Land Management Research Program
Prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Department of the Interior Office of Policy Analysis and University of Washington
By: , , , , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20255022

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Abstract

Federally managed public lands and waters attract millions of visitors each year, generating significant economic benefits for surrounding communities. Accurate visitation data are crucial for guiding policy decisions and managing resources effectively. This report explores the methods employed by agencies to collect and use data on recreational visitation to Federal lands and waters. Visitation estimation practices across seven agencies are reviewed, revealing similarities such as the use of automated counters for on-site data collection, alongside differences in reporting frequencies, visit definitions, and public access to data. Emerging technologies, including social media, mobile device activity, and community science, are also evaluated for their potential to improve visitation estimation. Although these technologies offer promising opportunities, they come with challenges such as data biases, the need for calibration, costs, and privacy concerns. The report concludes with opportunities to enhance data collection, coordination, and accessibility, ensuring more efficient resource management and informed decision making.

Suggested Citation

Hanson, D., Wilkins, E.J., Wood, S.A., Crowley, C., Boone, W., and Schuster, R., 2025, Monitoring recreation on federally managed lands and waters—Visitation estimation: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2025–5022, 46 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20255022.

ISSN: 2328-0328 (online)

Table of Contents

  • Acknowledgments
  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Existing Visitation Estimation Methods
  • Novel Methods
  • Implementing a Visitation Estimation Method
  • Case Studies
  • Opportunities
  • Legislative Activity
  • Conclusion
  • References Cited
  • Appendix 1. Relevant Legislation
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Monitoring recreation on federally managed lands and waters—Visitation estimation
Series title Scientific Investigations Report
Series number 2025-5022
DOI 10.3133/sir20255022
Publication Date May 01, 2025
Year Published 2025
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston VA
Contributing office(s) Fort Collins Science Center
Description vii, 46 p.
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Additional publication details