Summary
State trust lands, covering more than 40 million acres across the West, were granted to states with the primary purpose of generating revenue for public schools and other designated beneficiaries. These lands were historically managed for extractive uses such as grazing, timber harvesting, and mineral development. This Article examines how recreation—ranging from hiking and hunting to wildlife viewing and camping—fits within this fiduciary framework. It analyzes state-level policies, revenue models, accessibility considerations, and explores the opportunities and challenges of integrating recreation into trust land management. As recreational demand grows and state economies evolve, there is a need for adaptive management strategies that balance economic returns with ecological and public benefits.
