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Wilderness is of great value and conservation significance. An in-depth understanding of the evolution of the spatial distribution of wilderness conditions in China and the factors influencing them is crucial for biodiversity conservation and restoration. However, the evolution of its spatial and temporal patterns and the factors influencing them have been little explored in studies of wilderness. In this study, the Weighted Linear Combination model was utilized to assess the quality of wilderness in China over the past 20 years, and the geographic detector model assessed the key factors that have influenced wilderness. The study results indicate that (1) Over the past 20 years, the western wilderness has worsened, while the eastern and central regions have seen some improvement. (2) Changes in wilderness quality are mainly influenced by the temperature and the distribution of nature reserves. (3) High wilderness quality areas are mainly influenced by actual evapotranspiration and temperature, while population density and GDP play a dominant role in most medium and low wilderness quality areas. (4) Interacting factors are greater than any single factor affecting wilderness. The results of the study can provide a reference for the conservation and management of wilderness resources and biodiversity in China. [Display omitted] • Wilderness quality improved in >60% of Chinese provinces, but declined in Xizang (45.3%) and Xinjiang (50.8%). • Changes in wilderness quality are mainly influenced by the temperature and nature reserves distribution. • The dominant factors affecting wilderness quality differ depending on the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]