Previous studies focus on the scale of recreational ecosystem services (RES), but lacks considering structure. This research proposes a theoretical framework of RES structure based on ecosystem service theory and tourism experience theory, which further confirmed by using factor analysis and structural equations model in the Sanjiangyuan National Park. Results show that RES contains three dimensions:aesthetics, recreational opportunities, and suitable environment. These dimensions are affected by ecological attributes such as topography, land cover, unique landscape, landscape pattern, vegetation, zone of protected area, weather and altitude. The spatial variation in RES structure derived from the differences in ecological attributes and the perception of tourists towards the functions of ecological attributes and various dimensions. This research deepens the understanding of RES structure, helps improving the RES theory and optimizes the management of ecological attributes.