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outdoor recreation

Sunglasses on a beach.

Aug 11, 2023

Extreme Heat is Changing How People Experience the Outdoors

As record-breaking heat waves become more common around the world, many people are changing the timing and location of their outdoor activities. 

A park in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Sep 29, 2021

Study Raises Questions About Access to Urban Parks During the Pandemic

A study led by researchers from NC State found the use of outdoor parks and trails in urban areas of North Carolina declined in the summer of 2020. 

Children in nature

Sep 21, 2021

Study Finds Natural Outdoor Spaces Are Less Common at Schools

NC State researchers found natural spaces like woods or gardens were relatively rare in a small sample of elementary and middle schools in Wake County. 

Kids playing at sunset

Mar 8, 2021

For Teens, Outdoor Recreation During Pandemic Linked to Improved Well-Being

A study from North Carolina State University found outdoor play and nature-based activities helped buffer some of the negative mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for adolescents. 

Silhouette of a child fishing.

Aug 5, 2020

To Bond With Nature, Kids Need Solitary Activities Outdoors

A new study found solitary activities like hunting, fishing or exploring outside are key to building strong bonds between children and nature. 

Oct 24, 2017

What Motivates College Students to Play Pokémon Go?

Playing Pokémon Go gets students moving, including those who aren't gamers. Public health experts say that's a good thing. 

Jun 7, 2016

Hiking, Hunting Have Minor Effects on Mammals in Protected Eastern Forests

Six-state study finds that recreation had less of an impact on wildlife distribution than factors such as forested habitat and housing density.