Useful as a textbook for students studying recreation and leisure, this text also serves as a reference for outdoor recreation professionals. It outlines the concepts, history, development, and definitions of leadership in outdoor recreation, including the wide variety of outdoor activities and the settings in which outdoor recreation can take place. It includes step-by-step assignments and activities to help students focus their knowledge of the subject and develop their leadership skills. It also prepares students for the role of outdoor leader by outlining the essentials skills needed, including how to be an effective planner, communicator, decision maker, facilitator, and manage emergencies.