A Study on the Frequency of Participation in Recreation Activities and Recreation Area Preferences of Local People

This study aims to determine the relationship between local people's recreational activities participation frequency and the importance they attach to recreation area preference factors. Moreover, the study seeks to ascertain whether there are discrepancies recreational activities participation frequency and recreational area preferences among local people according to their socio-demographic characteristics. The sample consists of individuals residing in the central districts of Şanlıurfa. A quantitative method was used, with 537 valid responses collected through face-to-face questionnaires. The study showed that both recreation preferences and participation frequency vary significantly by gender, age, education, marital status, occupation, length of residence, income, visiting partners, participation time, and perceptions of recreation area adequacy. A significantly high positive correlation was found between participation frequency and recreation area preferences. The study provides theoretical contributions to recreation and leisure studies and practical implications for developing effective and user-oriented recreational policies and infrastructures in urban areas. The findings can inform the design and management of inclusive, accessible, and needs-responsive recreational environments that enhance community well-being and quality of life.