The goal of this thesis work is two fold. First, a conceptual framework is developed for the design of outdoor recreation areas that would act to increase environmental awareness of its users. Second, a concept plan is created for a portion of the North Oconee River Greenway that is based on a set of ecological design criteria that grows out of the conceptual framework. The concept plan and its attendant management protocols serve the ecological design criteria by improving the ecological health of a human-impacted site, encouraging human engagement with nature by bringing people into the space, and increasing environmental awareness by offering positive recreational and educational experiences in nature. The ecological criteria are identified and are then met by applying appropriate ecological design principles to each design component regarding installation, use of materials, management practices, and educational objectives.