Analysis of Recreational Uses in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to study socio-demographic characteristics, recreation use patterns and recreation behavior, to examine factors influencing the recreation behaviors and to predict trend of recreational uses at Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuary. Questionnaire was used to collect data from 411 visitors. The survey data were analyzed and concluded by using descriptive statistics, and multiple regression analysis. The study found that visitors had average age of 28.5 years. The majority of visitors hold bachelor degree, occupation status was under-graduate student and type of visitor was non-local resident. Major travel group was group of friends with average group size of 20 persons and average length of stay was I night. Most visitors had experience in visiting natural areas but had no experience in visiting Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuary. Type of recreation activity performed by most visitors in natural areas and Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuary was sightseeing. Most visitors had motivation of visiting natural areas, closing to nature and learning ecosystem. Level of visitors' knowledge on recreation impacts and values toward natural resource utilization were moderate. Level of visitors' perception on norm and regulations of the area was high and their recreation behaviors were moderately positive. Factors significantly influenced recreation behaviors of visitors were knowledge on recreation impacts (Beta=0.224; P=0.000); age (Beta=0.173; P=0.001); values toward natural resource utilization (Beta=-0.160; P=0.002); recreation activity in Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuary Beta=0.1 27; P=0.011); and recreation motivation of visiting natural areas, closing to nature and learning ecosystem (Beta=0.128; P=0.029). Trend in quantity of recreational use within Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuary was decreased while recreation behavior trend was positive.

Keywords: Recreational use, Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuary