ABSTRACT
Outdoor recreation is an integral part of the life of most Americans. Americans' penchant for outdoor recreation has received considerable study, especially by rural sociologists. The 1980s will bring a continued demand for scientific inquiry into the outdoor recreational preferences and activities of Americans. Objective information about outdoor recreation will also help government officials plan for the types of recreational opportunities that are desired. Changes in the size, distribution, and composition of the national population during the 1980s will provide an important context for outdoor recreation research. Changes in the composition of the population during the 1980s will have considerable impact on future demand for outdoor recreation. Changes in the composition of the work force also will influence future trends in outdoor recreation. The impact of social movements on outdoor recreation also needs to be better assessed. The environmental quality movement instilled new appreciative values for nature and gave impetus to increased demand for outdoor recreation, especially wilderness-oriented activities.
