Objectives By examining 47 natural protected areas in Beijing, this study aimed to comprehend the current state and underlying drivers of ecotourism business operations through field research.The goal was to furnish a foundation for establishing a concession system for natural protected areas and to promote the regulated and sustainable development of ecotourism business activities.

Methods From May to November 2023, the primary data was obtained through a combination of document collection, field interviews, group discussions, and on-site observation. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis and case study methods.

Results The research showed that: Firstly, among all protected areas, 27 currently conducted ecotourism business operations, accounting for 57.4% of the total. Specifically, all scenic and historic areas and geological parks engaged in such activities, while 46.1% of nature reserves and 44.4% of forest parks conducted operations, with revenue decreasing in that order. Wetland parks have not initiated business operations. Secondly, the operational projects in natural protected areas remained predominantly traditional and lacked diversity, although some have initiated new projects such as nature education. Thirdly, natural protected areas faced challenges such as poor commercial infrastructure, policy restrictions, weak operational or conservation awareness, and product homogeneity, with causes being diverse and complex. Fourthly, over half of the management authorities of natural protected areas were unaware of the concept of concession but expressed support after understanding its potential benefits.

Conclusions The research concluded: Firstly, engaging in business operations in natural protected areas is both common and necessary, but existing projects urgently need to be improved in quality and effectiveness while adhering to the principle of "ecological prioritization". Secondly, establishing a concession management system can be a essential framework for enhancing the quality and efficiency of business operations in natural protected areas. Thirdly, the design of the concession policies for natural protected areas requires universal standards as well as differentiated regulations tailored to various types of natural protected areas, with steady promotion on the basis of successful trials.