Growing demands for outdoor recreation have led to increased levels of crowding, displacement, competition and antagonism among alternative recreational uses. Recreational activities interact with differing degrees of compatibility resulting in various outcomes. In this review, we critique the relevant literature on recreation conflict, use compatibility and additivity with a focus on the interaction that takes place among alternative recreational uses. Results suggest that the literature is replete with theoretical and empirical studies focused on recreational conflict, while more comprehensive interaction types remain less studied and, in general, lacking overarching conceptual and analytical approaches. Further, there exists a need to link comprehensive approaches that address recreational use interaction with empirical analyses and management-specific strategies that allow for proactive planned outcomes that are positive-sum. We forward an approach to recreation planning that focuses on managing for relative compatibilities that involves maximizing those uses thought to be complementary and supplementary, while segregating and/or regulating those uses that are competitive and antagonistic.