Impacts of Tourism on Joshua Tree National Park. Economic Trends and Recommendations

Seminar paper from the year 2023 in the subject Tourism, grade: 1,3, University of Applied Sciences Wernigerode (International Tourism Studies), language: English, abstract: The primary objective of this study is to investigate the impact of tourism on Joshua Tree National Park. The study addresses questions such as the recent developments in tourism, its economic impact on the region, the most affected economic sectors, and how these impacts influence the local population. The work concludes with recommendations for politics, management, and the local population.
Joshua Tree National Park holds historical, cultural, and ecological significance. Despite global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, it remained the second most visited national park in California, underlining its importance. Situated east of Palm Springs, it is a unique blend of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, offering over 32 hiking trails and diverse flora covering approximately 85% of roadless wilderness.
The park's popularity surged post-World War II during the economic boom, transforming it into a prominent recreational destination. It was declared a national monument in the 1950s, attracting notable figures and becoming a hub for spiritual and cultural rejuvenation. The trend continued, leading to its designation as a national park in 1994.