The article presents the authors’ expert opinion on the use of specially protected natural areas in the rank of natural monuments of regional importance in the Samara Region (Russia) as recreational and tourist sites. The absence of the necessary organization and regulation of tourist and recreational activities in most areas, spontaneity and mass recreation, and as a consequence, the loss of the natural characteristics of some natural complexes is emphasized here. In the course of work, methods of biodiversity assessment were used and the current state of ecosystems of 7 protected areas was determined.