Full Breakdown
The Economic Impact of Outdoor Recreation in the U.S.
3/10/2026, 12:11:14 PM
Overview of the Outdoor Recreation Economy
The outdoor recreation industry in the United States has emerged as a significant economic force, generating $1.3 trillion in economic output in 2024, which accounts for 2.4% of the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This sector employs 5.2 million individuals, representing over 3% of the U.S. workforce. The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has tracked this data since the passage of the bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act in 2016, marking the eighth year of reporting. Although growth has slowed to 2.7% from the previous year’s 5.3%, the industry remains a vital component of the American economy.
Key Sectors and Growth Trends
Among various sectors, boating and fishing emerged as the largest contributors, adding nearly $40 billion to the economy in 2024. Other notable sectors include RVing, which contributed $27.5 billion, and hunting, shooting, and trapping, which added $16.5 billion. The hunting sector experienced the fastest growth, with a 16.5% increase year-over-year. California led the states in total outdoor recreation income, generating $87.9 billion, while Hawaii had the highest percentage of its GDP from outdoor recreation at 6.1%.
Since 2012, the outdoor recreation sector has grown by 43.3% when adjusted for inflation, with an overall dollar growth of 84.2%. However, some segments, particularly those with higher manufacturing costs like RVing and boating, have seen slower growth compared to more resilient sectors like hunting and camping.
Economic Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the overall growth, the outdoor recreation industry faces challenges, including inflation, high interest rates, and supply chain issues. Jessica Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), emphasized the need for legislative support to maintain momentum. She stated, “To keep this economic sector strong in 2026, we need action: invest in access, reduce friction in supply chains and permitting, and pass commonsense policies that support outdoor recreation infrastructure and public lands and waters.”
Official Statements and Industry Insights
Mark Tesoro, manager for the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, noted that the outdoor recreation industry generated $2.3 billion in Wyoming in 2024, accounting for 4.5% of the state's GDP. He highlighted the importance of educating and dispersing user groups to ensure economic benefits reach various communities.
Kai Twanmoh, head of brand engagement for AllTrails, reported a 75% increase in outdoor activity among app users in 2025, indicating a growing interest in outdoor experiences. “We are incredibly bullish about a future where every American gets to spend time outside,” Twanmoh stated.
Conflicting Reports and Future Outlook
While the outdoor recreation sector continues to grow, it has lagged behind the overall U.S. economy, which saw a 2.8% growth in 2024. The BEA data indicates that domestic travel, which accounted for nearly half of the outdoor GDP, is a significant driver of economic output. However, many outdoor activities, such as boating and RVing, have experienced stagnation or decline.
Looking ahead, industry leaders remain optimistic about the future of outdoor recreation, predicting new highs in interest and participation as Americans seek to reconnect with nature. The call for investment in infrastructure and policy support remains crucial for sustaining this growth trajectory.
