Backcountry Recreation Management

Table of contents

INTRODUCTION
DEFINITIONS
POLICY AND PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
AUTHORITIES
RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER GUIDANCE
PROGRAM GUIDANCE
        Backcountry Recreational Use Planning
        Backcountry Recreational Use Management Issues and Strategies
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
REFERENCES

Introduction

Over half of the NPS units include large undeveloped areas that provide opportunities for backcountry recreational activities. In fact, a number of NPS areas were established primarily for the recreational opportunities they offer. Types of backcountry recreational activities that may be allowed include, but are not limited to, boating, camping, day hiking, overnight camping, horseback riding and pack stock use, picnicking, scuba diving, cross-country skiing, caving, hunting, mountain and rock climbing, off-road vehicle use, bicycling, and swimming.

Management of recreational uses and maintenance of recreational facilities in backcountry are not, in themselves, resource management activities. However, proper planning and management of these uses are important to protecting natural resources. Therefore, resource managers should work closely with planners and visitor use and facility managers to ensure that these activities are conducted in a manner protective of natural resources.