INsights on America’s OUTdoor Habits

July 1, 2014, Department, by Samantha Bartram

As NRPA prepares for July’s Parks and Recreation Month, we asked a national audience what drives them OUT of the house and INto nature.July is Park and Recreation Month, and in preparation for 31 days of getting OUTside being the IN thing to do, we endeavored to learn a bit more about peoples’ habits when it comes to enjoying nature and outdoor recreation. In partnership with Ipsos Public Affairs, we commissioned the “OUT is IN Survey,” asking a national audience what drives them OUT of the house and INto nature, how often they go, and what barriers make it difficult to leave the confines of our homes and offices. Below, we share some key findings that might inspire you to take greater advantage of the green spaces around us.

72: Percentage of adults who report going outside at least once a day, every day. 

8: Percentage of adults who spend time outside three to four times per week.

2: Percentage of adults who report never going outside.

38: Percentage of adults age 55 and older who report spending at least an hour per day participating in outdoor activities. 

25: Percentage of adults age 35 and younger who report spending at least an hour per day participating in outdoor activities. 

35: Minimum percentage of adults who say work prevents them from getting more time outdoors.

20: Percentage of adults who say spending time on their computer, tablet or smartphone is a barrier to getting more time outdoors.

46: Percentage of adults who say they’d be willing to give up or spend less time watching television in order to spend more time outdoors.

24: Percentage of adults who would scale back time on their computer or smartphone for more time outdoors.

54: Percentage of adults who say when they are outside, they’re engaging in sports activities or exercise.

53: Percentage of adults who cite an appreciation for nature and gardening as activities that get them outdoors.

Learn more about Park and Recreation Month.