Causes of Increased Tourism in the U.S. National Parks in 2021
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Sophomore
Major
Geography/GIS
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Robin Zhang
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
Following the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, Americans were eager to spend time outdoors. The national parks were an excellent place to explore green space. Nearly all units experienced increased visitation in 2021, exemplifying this idea. Through gathering vehicle data from 2018 to 2022, case studies of five national parks examine similarities and differences between the various parks in the National Park Service. By examining visitation trends in the parks, the study finds what commonalities can explain the varying number of park visitors in 2021. The park’s proximity to a major metropolitan area, governmental decisions, park policies, and the policies of surrounding parks affected the degree of increased visitation in each individual park.
Fall Scholars Week 2023 Event
Earth and Environment Sciences Poster Session
Causes of Increased Tourism in the U.S. National Parks in 2021
Following the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, Americans were eager to spend time outdoors. The national parks were an excellent place to explore green space. Nearly all units experienced increased visitation in 2021, exemplifying this idea. Through gathering vehicle data from 2018 to 2022, case studies of five national parks examine similarities and differences between the various parks in the National Park Service. By examining visitation trends in the parks, the study finds what commonalities can explain the varying number of park visitors in 2021. The park’s proximity to a major metropolitan area, governmental decisions, park policies, and the policies of surrounding parks affected the degree of increased visitation in each individual park.