It goes without saying that people interested in the outdoors tend to visit state parks. Given that the same denominator is common across hunters, anglers, and target shooters, this project explored whether state parks represent a good opportunity to recruit new hunters, anglers, and/or target shooters and how to best do so. In August – September 2024, a survey of Midwestern state parks visitors was conducted to learn more about their overall interest in these outdoor activities. The results show that many state park visitors do not currently hunt, fish, or shoot, but have high levels of interest in doing so. Top-level findings with potential marketing applications can be categorized into three sections: General participation, Outreach opportunities, and Generational observations.

This research was conducted on in partnership with the Midwest Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. Funding was provided by a Multistate Conservation Grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and jointly administered with the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

Read the full report for detailed findings!