<b>Interpretation and visitor management in national parks: Evidence from Fruška Gora</b>

This study examines how visitors perceive interpretive panels and how these perceptions can inform adaptive visitor management strategies in Fruška Gora National Park, Serbia. Positioned within contemporary management trends that emphasize data-driven decision-making, visitor segmentation, and experience-centered governance, the research explores how socio-demographic characteristics influence perceptions of interpretive panels across three dimensions: Design, Engagement, and Meaning. Data were collected through an online survey (N = 385) and analyzed using independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA to identify differences among visitor groups. The findings reveal that age, education level, socio-economic status, and visit frequency significantly influence perceptions of interpretive panels, whereas gender and type of residence do not. Higher-educated and higher-income respondents demonstrated stronger engagement with interpretive content, while first-time visitors expressed more positive evaluations than repeat visitors, suggesting a novelty effect. These results highlight the managerial importance of differentiated interpretation strategies aligned with sustainable visitor management, stakeholder responsiveness, and inclusive communication. By integrating socio-demographic insights into interpretive planning, national parks can enhance visitor satisfaction, improve interpretive effectiveness, and support conservation goals. Article history: Received (February 25, 2026); Revised (March 25, 2026); Accepted (March 26, 2026); Published online (March 30, 2026)