These are some of the benefits of interpretation (Sharpe, 1983) listed in a publication "Fostering Environmental Stewardship" by the state of New York’s Department of Natural Resources.

• Interpretation contributes directly to the enrichment of visitor experiences.
• Interpretation is part of law enforcement. Informed visitors are more likely to obey park regulations when they know what the rules are and the reasons behind the rules.
• Interpretation may reduce the unnecessary destruction of park property, resulting in lower maintenance and replacement costs.
• Interpretation is part of visitor safety. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Informed visitors are less likely to be reckless about safety issues.
• Interpretation provides a means of moving people subtly from sensitive areas to sites that can better sustain heavy human impact, thus protecting the environment.
• Interpretation is a way to improve public image and establish public support.
• Interpretation may assist in the successful promotion of parks where tourism is essential to an area's or country's economy.
• Interpretation may broaden the visitor's horizons beyond the park boundary, giving a greater understanding of the total natural resources picture. Interpretation can serve the department’s regional or national agenda.
• Interpretation makes visitors aware of their place in the total environment and gives them a better understanding of the complexities of coexisting with that environment.
• Interpretation informs the public and an informed public may make wiser decisions on matters related to natural resources management.
• Interpretation may be effective in preserving a significant historic site or natural area by arousing citizen concern.
• Interpretation may instill in visitors a sense of pride in their country or in the region's culture and heritage.