Observing Physical Activity and Recreation in Natural Areas (SOPARNA)

Background/Purpose: Few studies of physical activity and related contexts using direct observation in natural areas have been conducted. Compared to community parks, access points and modes of activity in nature-/wilderness-based recreation areas vary tremendously. Areas of interest also vary widely (e.g., campsites, fields, play areas, vistas, trails) and these can be accessed at different locations (e.g., via roads, paths) by different modes (e.g., foot, bicycle, horse, ATVs, automobile). Natural outdoor settings also frequently have blocked sight lines which include meandering roads and trails, rocks/boulders, embankments, and trees. The purpose of this presentation is to describe an adaptation of SOPARC to studying wilderness areas. Method: We modified the original SOPARC to assess for recreational supports (e.g. dogs, horses, transportation vehicles) and the presence of additional activities (e. g., hunting, fishing). We also tested a scanning procedure that used a drive-by strategy for use in campgrounds. We then assessed the system by observing 9 target areas (including campgrounds, trails, vistas) in the Cleveland National Forest three times per day over 10 days. Analysis/Results: Park users were primarily adults (71%), male (57%, and white (62%). Users were typically sedentary, except when on trails. Observation challenges included lack of clear-cut target area boundaries, natural features interfering with viewing, and age, gender, ethnicity being obscured by outdoor clothing. Conclusions: SOPARNA provides contextually-rich data on people and park environments, and shows promise as a data collection tool in natural areas. Safety education needs to be provided to ensure observers can protect themselves in the wilderness.