This case study examines whether the development of community protected areas really contributes to upgrading the livelihood of local communities. The Boeung Per wildlife sanctuary has a total area of 242500 ha and extends over three provinces, It has abundant natural resources. People in that area are dependent on forest resources due to low outputs from rice cultivation and shifting cultivation. The decrease of forest resources has caused serious impact on the livelihoods of local communities. The establishment of a community protected area resulted in certain positive results including recognition of the legal rights of the community to managing natural resources, reduction of illegal activities, improved local capacity etc. These helped in upgrading the livelihoods as well as natural resource management.