Methods and compositions for modifying recreational surfaces are disclosed. The method includes the step of combining a particulate surface material with a sprayable composition in an amount sufficient to bind the surface material. The composition comprises a synthetic polymer material dispersed or dissolved in a fluid oil component. The polymer material is selected from natural and synthetic rubbers, olefins, copolymers of olefins, polyolefins, copolymers of polyolefins, mixtures of olefins and polyolefins, and mixtures of one or more of these. The oil component may be petroleum based. The composition may be blended in-situ with the particulate surface material.