The spatial network structure of the U.S. outdoor recreation economy and its influencing factors

Abstract

Investigating the spatial network structure of the outdoor recreation economy has significant implications for the industrial layout of outdoor recreation economies in other countries. However, there is a notable lack of research on this topic. Therefore, this study explores the spatial network structure of the U.S. outdoor recreation economy using a modified gravity model and social network analysis (SNA), and employs QAP analysis to examine its influencing factors. The findings reveal the following: (1) COVID-19 significantly hindered the overall development of the U.S. outdoor recreation economy, reducing economic cooperation among states; however, recovery has been relatively swift. (2) Coastal regions exhibit significant developmental advantages in outdoor recreation economies. (3) The study confirms prior assumptions that, while the U.S. outdoor recreation economy demonstrated low short-term resilience following global public health events, it exhibited high long-term resilience. During the initial outbreak of COVID-19, people tended to seek relatively safer and less crowded areas. (4) The Mid-Atlantic, Southeastern, Upper Mississippi Valley, and Pacific Coast regions showed significant economic siphon effects, whereas the Midwest and Rocky Mountain regions exhibited notable economic spillover effects. States like California, Colorado, and New York play pivotal roles as intermediaries and hubs in the flow of outdoor recreation elements.(5) The QAP analysis results reveal that factors such as temperature, precipitation, and income levels significantly influence the network structure. Additionally, economic coordination among regions, optimized resource allocation, and the development of climate-resilient infrastructure play crucial roles in enhancing network resilience and promoting balanced regional development.