By Outdoor Recreation Roundtable
The outdoor recreation industry does more than bring joy to millions of Americans. It helps drive our economy. Each year, the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) releases updated national statistics and state-level data on the outdoor recreation economy that recognizes the critical role the industry plays in supporting economic growth in the United States.
The most recent year of data showed that in 2024, outdoor recreation generated $1.3 trillion in economic impact (2.4% of U.S. GDP) and 5.2 million jobs, reflecting the desire of Americans across the country to get outdoors and recreate.
*Note: ORR uses BEA’s gross output numbers when showcasing the impact of the outdoor recreation economy and its sectors. Gross output represents all sales of goods and services, including those for intermediate inputs and those to final users. In the outdoor industry, this would represent sales of both intermediate and final goods and services like buckles, backpacks, reels, fishing rods, steering wheels, ATVs, guided trips and many others. To learn more, click here. 
Key 2024 data highlights
- $1.3 Trillion in Economic Output
- 5.2 Million Jobs (3.2% of U.S. Employment)
- 2.4% of GDP
- 2.7% Growth Over 2023 Data
State-level impact
- The top five states in growth from 2023-2024 were Massachusetts (6.9%), Arizona (6.8%), Iowa (6.6%), Alaska (6.3%), and Nevada (6.1%), underscoring the diverse footprint of outdoor recreation across rural, suburban, and urban economies. State Offices of Outdoor Recreation continue to coordinate investments and initiatives that convert participation into local jobs and small-business revenue.
What do the numbers mean for the industry?
- This year’s data reflects macro headwinds: inflation, interest rates, business uncertainty and shifting consumer behavior in post-COVID recovery.
- Demand is still strong—participation remains high—but affordability may be a barrier.
- The industry has absorbed inflation as long as it can; margins are tight.
- Still, since 2012 outdoor recreation has grown 43.3% in real terms and 84.2% in nominal terms.
- Segment variability matters: manufacturing-heavy segments (e.g., RVing, boating) were slightly lower, while hunting, snowmobiling and tent camping showed resilience and some growth—a nuanced picture that matches what businesses are feeling across the country.
Looking Ahead: Policy Priorities
While the industry remains strong and a major contributor to national and local economies, ORR and its members urge policymakers to:
- Reauthorize and strengthen the Legacy Restoration Fund to modernize recreation infrastructure and accelerate high-value projects nationwide
- Fully implement the bipartisan EXPLORE Act to expand access, innovation, and public-private partnerships
- Recognize outdoor recreation as essential infrastructure for public health and community wellbeing
- Preserve access to public lands and waters in perpetuity as a high-return national investment and a sustainable, appreciating asset on America’s balance sheet
- Fully fund the Recreational Trails Program to support diverse trail users and rural economies
- Reduce regulatory headwinds and increase certainty for outdoor recreation businesses
- Strengthen federal-state coordination, including State Offices of Outdoor Recreation
Background
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) releases statistics measuring the outdoor recreation economy for the nation, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia. This is the eighth consecutive year that the BEA has released government data on the outdoor recreation economy. Prior to 2017, the federal government did not measure the economic impact of outdoor recreation.
The bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act was signed into law in 2016, which required the federal government to measure the sector’s impact on the economy to help inform policy makers and business leaders about the number of jobs created and consumer spending driven by outdoor recreation industries.
The law also requires that the Commerce Department submit a comprehensive analysis to Congress capturing the outdoor recreation sector’s contribution to the economy. This annual data is vital to showing how the outdoor recreation industry has a significant impact on the national economy and job creation and contributes to the health and vitality of the nation.
“Outdoor recreation is a proven, sustainable asset on America’s balance sheet—one that contributes $350 million on federal lands and waters alone and smart investments now will compound returns for decades to come,” said Jess Turner, President of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.
Outdoor Recreation Roundtable Member Quotes:
“Fishing is one of the oldest gateways to the outdoors,” said Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of American Sportfishing Association. Every year, over 57.7 million anglers traverse our waterways to make memories with friends and family while supporting the $230 billion recreational fishing industry. This BEA data confirms that outdoor recreation is deeply intertwined with America’s heritage, and its popularity continues to grow. We must continue working with lawmakers to protect public access, expand recreational opportunities, and safeguard our aquatic ecosystems to further strengthen our outdoor economy.”
“As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, these numbers are a powerful reminder that time on the water remains deeply woven into the American story,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). “Recreational boating and fishing are cherished traditions for millions of families and a key driver of manufacturing and small business growth. With 95 percent of boats sold in the United States built here at home and most builders operating as small businesses, the industry reflects the strength of domestic innovation and craftsmanship. Protecting access to public waters and investing in recreation infrastructure will be essential to ensuring future generations can enjoy life on the water while keeping marine manufacturing globally competitive.”
“The latest data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis reinforces the important role the outdoor hospitality industry plays in America’s outdoor recreation economy,” said Paul Bambei, President and CEO of the OHI (Outdoor Hospitality Industry). “Private RV parks, campgrounds and glamping businesses serve as the gateway to countless outdoor experiences—from fishing and boating to hiking and biking. As more families, younger generations and diverse campers discover the benefits of time spent outdoors, they are also supporting the communities they visit, spending an average of $60 per person per day in local communities and helping drive economic growth in destinations across the country.”
“The latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reinforces what many of us see every day, that outdoor recreation is both central to Maine’s identity and a powerful economic driver. Maine continues to rank among national leaders, and Maine’s Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap provides a clear path to build on that momentum by expanding access, supporting innovative businesses, and creating career pathways for the next generation,” said Jenny Kordick, Executive Director of Maine Outdoor Brands.
“The annual BEA data remains one of the clearest and most credible measures of the outdoor recreation economy’s role in the United States,” said Kent Ebersole, Outdoor Industry Association CEO. “It helps demonstrate not only the scale of our industry, but also why continued investment in outdoor access, recreation infrastructure, and participation matters for local communities, rural economies, and public health. Outdoor recreation is more than a consumer category. It’s a major contributor to the U.S. economy, a source of jobs in communities of every size, and an engine for rural development.”
“The latest BEA data underscores the undeniable impact of outdoor recreation on our economy, and RVing plays a crucial role in that success story,” said Craig Kirby, President and CEO of RV Industry Association. “More than ever, younger and increasingly diverse adventurers are choosing RVs to experience the outdoors and pursue a wide range of activities, from classic pursuits like fishing and hiking to the rising popularity of watersports and off-road adventures. These trends demonstrate that RVing not only enhances personal well-being but also fuels economic growth across the nation.”
“Recreational boating continues to be a key part of America’s Outdoor Recreation Economy, and the new 2024 BEA data highlights Americans’ desire to be outside, get on the water, and enjoy their favorite pastimes,” said Matt Gruhn, president of the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas. “The success of the recreational boating industry is ultimately fueled by marine retailers who keep boaters on the water and are key for ensuring that we continue to grow participation in America’s Outdoor Recreation Economy. This economic impact underscores the importance of prioritizing policies that support marine retailers, fuel continued investments in conservation and ensure domestic marine manufacturers can remain strong to ensure the recreational boating industry stays a uniquely American sector.”
