Why Researchers Choose Journal of Park and Recreation Administration for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of Park and Recreation Administration stands as a cornerstone in the field of Sports Leisure, offering researchers a dedicated platform to disseminate innovative studies on park management, recreation programming, and administrative practices. Established as a key resource for scholars and practitioners, this journal emphasizes rigorous research that advances understanding of leisure services, environmental stewardship, and community engagement through recreational facilities. With a focus on practical applications and theoretical insights, it attracts contributions from diverse backgrounds, including urban planning, tourism, and public administration experts.
Researchers value the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration for its commitment to quality scholarship that influences policy and practice in leisure industries. The publication process ensures thorough peer review, fostering credibility and visibility for authors' work. Topics range from sustainable park design to equity in recreation access, addressing contemporary challenges like climate change impacts on outdoor spaces and inclusive programming for diverse populations. By publishing empirical studies, case analyses, and policy reviews, the journal bridges academia and real-world administration, making it essential for those seeking to impact the Sports Leisure sector.
Its reputation for balanced editorial oversight and interdisciplinary appeal draws submissions from global researchers, though rooted in United States contexts. The journal's archives provide a rich repository of historical data on recreation trends, aiding longitudinal studies. For academics navigating career progression, featuring in this outlet enhances profiles, particularly when combined with networking opportunities in related fields. Explore further resources on academic jobs to align your research with professional opportunities.
In an era where leisure administration faces evolving demands, the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration remains pivotal. Its emphasis on evidence-based strategies supports advancements in public health through recreation and economic benefits of park systems. Authors benefit from detailed feedback that refines their methodologies, ensuring publications contribute meaningfully to discourse. As you consider outlets for your next project, evaluate how this journal aligns with your goals in Sports Leisure research.
To get started on your submission journey or discover related career paths, visit our higher ed jobs in sports leisure section for inspiration and connections.
Overview & History
The Journal of Park and Recreation Administration, launched in 1984, has evolved into a vital publication for the Sports Leisure domain. Initially focused on administrative challenges in U.S. parks and recreation departments, it has expanded to encompass global perspectives on leisure management. Published quarterly by Sagamore-Venture, the journal maintains a tradition of excellence, with over 40 volumes documenting shifts in recreation policy and practice.
Key milestones include special issues on urban green spaces in the 1990s and sustainability themes in the 2010s, reflecting societal changes. Today, it serves as a forum for discussing leadership in leisure organizations, resource allocation, and community outreach programs. Researchers appreciate its historical depth, which provides context for current studies on post-pandemic recreation recovery.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The Journal of Park and Recreation Administration covers a wide array of topics within Sports Leisure, emphasizing administrative and operational aspects of parks and recreation. Core areas include policy development, facility management, and program evaluation, with interdisciplinary ties to environmental science and social work.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Parks Management | Strategies for sustainable development and maintenance of public green spaces. |
| Recreation Administration | Leadership and organizational structures in leisure service delivery. |
| Leisure Studies | Exploration of recreational behaviors and their societal impacts. |
| Tourism and Hospitality | Integration of recreation with visitor experiences in natural settings. |
| Public Administration | Policy analysis for equitable access to recreational resources. |
These disciplines ensure comprehensive coverage, appealing to researchers addressing real-world applications in Sports Leisure.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | Not publicly disclosed | Not listed in Clarivate JCR. |
| CiteScore (Scopus) | 1.4 | 2022 data from Scopus. |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 25% | Based on publisher reports. |
| Average Review Time | 3-6 months | From submission to decision. |
| Publication Frequency | Quarterly | Four issues per year. |
These metrics highlight the journal's selectivity and timeliness in the Sports Leisure field.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of Park and Recreation Administration is indexed in Scopus, EBSCO, and ProQuest, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in the Web of Science Emerging Sources Citation Index, facilitating citations tracking. DOAJ lists it as open access compliant for select content, while Sherpa/RoMEO confirms green open access policies. These affiliations enhance visibility for Sports Leisure research.
Publication Model and Fees
Adopting a hybrid model, the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration offers subscription access with open access options via Sagamore-Venture. No article processing charges (APCs) apply for standard submissions, making it accessible for researchers. Institutional subscriptions support broad readership, with author fees only for open access elections at $1,500.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions to the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration occur through the official portal at js.sagamorepub.com. Manuscripts should follow APA style, with 6,000-8,000 word limits. Include abstracts, keywords, and declarations of interest. Peer review is double-blind, emphasizing originality in Sports Leisure topics. Guidelines stress ethical standards, including IRB approvals for human subjects research.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board features experts like Editor-in-Chief Dr. Mark A. Falcous from the University of Otago, alongside associates from NRPA and international universities. Members specialize in recreation equity and park economics, providing diverse oversight. Their affiliations with organizations like the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance underscore the board's authority in Sports Leisure.
Why Publish in Journal of Park and Recreation Administration?
Publishing in the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration offers researchers enhanced credibility in Sports Leisure, with opportunities for citation and collaboration. Its focused audience includes policymakers and administrators, amplifying practical impact. Authors gain from rigorous yet supportive review, advancing careers through prestigious bylines. For those in academia, it supports tenure dossiers effectively.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Focus | Impact Metric | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Park and Recreation Administration | Administration in parks/recreation | CiteScore 1.4 | Quarterly |
| Leisure Sciences | Leisure behavior and policy | Impact Factor 2.1 | Bimonthly |
| Journal of Leisure Research | Theoretical leisure studies | CiteScore 2.0 | Quarterly |
| Managing Sport and Leisure | Sports management | CiteScore 1.8 | Quarterly |
This comparison positions the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration as a specialized, accessible choice in Sports Leisure.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed with submissions to the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration, align your work with current calls on sustainability or inclusivity. Craft clear abstracts highlighting administrative implications. Engage with recent issues for contextualization. Network via Rate My Professor for feedback. Track academic calendar deadlines. Revise based on reviewer insights for stronger outcomes in Sports Leisure scholarship.