What are the existing recreation features?

How well can the site be developed?

How useful will it be to the public?

Is this site available?

Check the quantity and quality of all of the recreation interests already existing at the site. Naturally, a park site with scenic views, a good lake, trees, and sand dunes, will attract more people than a nearby area with only trees and dunes. Quality is vitally important. Frontage on a body of clear, clean water will be vastly different from the same amount of frontage on polluted water. Some recreation features, such as scenic values and water interest, also have greater overall value than other interests.

One of the most desirable features for a park are beautiful views or scenery. It may be distant views of a valley or the mountains or natural features such as a small lake, colorful rock formations, or unusual trees. A site which overlooks a harbor or river may offer interest in the activities of boating traffic. An area on the coast may have relaxing views of the surf rolling in on a beach. A site may also be attractive just through the beauty of its trees and shrubs. Note extent of these interests and how available they will be for the public to enjoy.

Water interest is one of the most valuable factors you can find for a recreation site. Most park planners look to water frontage for basic park areas. This follows naturally since frontage on an ocean, stream, or lake provides scenic values and opportunities for the very popular recreation activities of bathing, fishing, boating, and other water sports. A body of water is usually the center of interest at parks which attract the greatest picnic and camping use. It also cools the air in summer and nourishes the trees and wildlife.