In response to proposed changes to the policies governing the National Park Service, OIA and the Leisure Trends Group took it to the streets to conduct a survey of active Americans to get the populace’s take on America’s National Parks. The survey found that more than two-thirds of active Americans named beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing, secluded quiet, and lack of a corporate presence as experiences they expect during a visit to National Parks. The survey also found that less than half of frequent park visitors placed a priority on the availability of food and equipment vendors and lodging.

Opponents of the controversial rewrite, including OIA, say the new guidelines would do away with the NPS’s historic focus on conservation and would increase noise and air pollution in our nation’s parks as well as expanding commercialization of the parks.

“The results of this survey reaffirm Outdoor Industry Association’s position that active Americans overwhelmingly want the NPS to continue its current mission of conservation of our nation’s natural treasures,” notes Frank Hugelmeyer, president of OIA. “The proposed rewrite is not only unnecessary, but runs completely against the desires of Americans visiting national parks.”

The survey also found that 67% of those surveyed want the National Park Service to favor maintaining the natural beauty of the park and protecting its air and water quality over man-made additions. Two out of 3 active Americans who visit a National Park expect a lack of corporate presence (billboards, signage, corporate sponsorship, establishments) therein.