The benefits based management (BBM) approach to outdoor recreation programming is a technique focused on outcomes and benefits derived from participating in outdoor recreation activities. This approach can be used to establish the significance of college outdoor programs on campus. The four premises of BBM are the articulation of outcome-oriented goals that address significant issues and concerns; the design of outdoor programs to address the stated goals; the establishment of an evaluation procedure that allows documentation of goal achievement and benefits to the individual; and the establishment of a marketing effort that communicates the significance of the programs offered. The advantages of BBM are listed and key definitions presented, followed by a discussion of program development guidelines, the nature of performance objectives, and programming principles. Probably the most important step in BBM is the processing or debriefing after the recreation experience. Guidelines are presented that include processing approaches and sample questions. In order to determine the impact of the BBM approach, a comprehensive assessment of the BBM project should be undertaken. A pre- and post-survey administered to participants and a control group are recommended, plus ongoing evaluation of performance objectives. Formative evaluation should be carried out throughout the project, with a summative evaluation conducted at the end. Includes figures depicting the recreation demand hierarchy, an activity planning model, a program planning sheet, and an activity report. (TD)