The purpose of this paper and presentation is to present an overview of literature that has explored the relationships that active recreation and parks/outdoor open spaces have to health and well-being. Research, both qualitative and quantitative, has been conducted in the past decade to examine the benefits that parks and recreation can contribute to healthy and active living. Among the aspects discussed that contribute to health and wellbeing are elements of the social ecological model: intrapersonal, interpersonal, community and environment, and policy. The relationship between the social and physical environments has been linked to both physical and mental health. Further, the potential for recreation and parks to facilitate active living and health exists regardless of age, gender, income, or ethnic background.