Profiling of Shelter Campers, Their Attitudes, and Perceptions towards Environmental Impacts of Campsite Use and Management: Evidence from National Parks of Sri Lanka

Abstract

There is a dearth of research describing the campsite user segment and in assessing camp-site users’ perceptions of the bio-physical impacts of campsite use in Sri Lanka. Using a structured questionnaire, we evaluated campsite user characteristics, visitor motivations, behaviors, and how visitor experience is affected by visible biophysical impacts at campsites. Based on underlying visitor motivations derived through a Factor Analysis and Cluster Analysis, we identified three distinct segments of campsite users: Eco-tourists, Prestige seekers, and Adventure seekers. Results indicate that the overall cleanliness of the campsite is an important attribute that affects the visitor experience. The Ecotourist segment reported environmentally desired motives, attitudes and behaviours. However, majority of campsite users belong to the Prestige-seeker and Adventure-seeker segments. Prestige seekers in particular demand better facilities and proper maintenance of campsites. Additionally, Prestige seekers are more attractive as a market segment to target because they are high-income, well-educated individuals with pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors. Recommended management actions include increasing visitor awareness, monitoring, zonation of activity areas, and enforcement of park campsite user policies to ensure enhanced visitor experience.

Study on the Spatial Layout and Influencing Factors of Campsites in the Yellow River Basin

“…S.T. Mallikage and P. Perera examined the biophysical impacts of human camping activities in Sri Lankan national parks [11,12]. Additionally, Kyungsik Kim conducted a survey of 400 campers in Yunnan Province, China, finding that ecotourism motivations positively influenced satisfaction, place attachment, and environmental responsibility behaviors [13].…”

Optimizing Spatial Layout of Campsites for Self-Driving Tours in Xinjiang: A Study Based on Online Travel Blog Data

“…Camping activities can lead to significant and typically localized environmental impacts, affecting soil, vegetation, wildlife, and water quality. Due to biophysical effects, the long-term degradation of campgrounds can also negatively affect visitor experiences [12]. Consequently, numerous scholars have conducted research on sustainable development strategies for campgrounds.…”