Composite model of optimal public benefits derived from environmental design features employed in the development of reservoir recreation sites

A 17-page personal interview, calling for response to approximately 150 items was administered to 158 parties of park users at five Corps of Engineers reservoir parks in the Fort Worth District. The parks, and the reservoirs at which they were located are: Grapevine Reservoir--Meadowmere Park, Whitney Reservoir--McCown Valley Park, Somerville Reservoir--Rocky Creek Park, Rayburn Reservoir--Jackson Hill Park, and Canyon Reservoir--Canyon Park. The users surveyed were primarily of metropolitan origin. The majority were from 21 years to 50 years of age, with a high school education and employed at a skilled or higher level of occupation. Over half had some type of recreation vehicle, such as a house trailer, pick-up camper, or tent camper. Close to half had visited the park at least fifteen times or more. Geographic range of recreational travel was limited primarily to one state. Nearly half had visited only state parks in their recreation travel. Critical evaluation of Corps park facilities was greatest from those park users who had a wider range of exposure to other kinds of park designs and facilities. Close to home was the foremost reason for selecting the particular park. Camping and fishing were the primary recreation activities which the respondents indicated they were participating in. Over three-fourths stayed at the park two days or longer. Most parties selected their park site as close to the lake as possible, oftentimes sacrificing shade, closeness to toilets and drinking water, picnic tables, and even electricity at each camp spur. The campsite and its immediate environment was the focal point of all activity. Users evaluated park design more in terms of how it affected their comfort and convenience rather than how its execution added to or detracted from the aesthetic qualities of the park. Blend of the exterior surface of park facilities with the native landscape was not considered important. ..