How Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Outdoor Recreation in the U.S.? A Revealed Preference Approach

Abstract

This study examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on outdoor recreation trips and values using revealed preference data in the context of travel cost method. Demand models are estimated using data on pre- and postpandemic trips reported in a nationwide survey of recreation participants. The models incorporate related subjective risk perceptions as postpandemic measures of site quality and account for household-level factors, pre-existing conditions, and risk tolerance. Our results suggest that the pandemic had negative effects on recreation visits and values, with risk-tolerant households and households with pre-existing conditions taking more trips.