A National Recreation Area (NRA) is a designation within the National Park System in the United States. It refers to a federally protected area that is managed by the National Park Service and established primarily for recreational purposes.
The primary goal of a National Recreation Area is to provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoyment of natural, scenic, and cultural resources. These areas are often located near urban centers or major population centers to provide accessible recreational opportunities to a large number of people.
National Recreation Areas can encompass a variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, coastlines, and historical sites. They may offer a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, swimming, wildlife viewing, and scenic driving.
Unlike national parks, which are usually established to preserve unique natural and cultural features, National Recreation Areas can have multiple uses, including water-based activities, motorized recreation, and other forms of outdoor recreation. They may also have existing infrastructure, such as marinas, campgrounds, visitor centers, and developed trails, to support recreational activities.
National Recreation Areas are typically managed in collaboration with local communities, state agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure the preservation of natural resources while providing recreational opportunities. The management approach aims to balance the needs of conservation, public access, and enjoyment of the area's resources.
Examples of National Recreation Areas in the United States include Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
There are 42 parks designated as National Recreation Area: