Outdoor Recreation Continues to be Major Force in Wyoming’s Economy

Worland, WY — Outdoor recreation continues to play a major role in Wyoming’s economy, contributing billions in economic output and supporting thousands of jobs across the state, according to new federal data.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, reported that Wyoming’s outdoor recreation industry generated $2.3 billion in 2024. That represents 4.5 percent of the state’s gross domestic product, ranking fifth highest in the nation and marking an increase over 2023.

Employment in the sector also grew, with more than 16,500 jobs tied to outdoor recreation statewide.

At the national level, the industry produced $1.3 trillion in economic output, accounting for 2.4 percent of U.S. GDP and supporting 5.2 million jobs. Outdoor recreation now represents 3.2 percent of total U.S. employment, underscoring its broad economic footprint.

This marks the eighth consecutive year the BEA has released data tracking the outdoor recreation economy. While the industry remains a key driver of economic activity, growth slowed in 2024 as inflation, higher interest rates, and shifting consumer behavior influenced participation following the pandemic-era boom.

Strong Role, Slower Growth

Wyoming continues to outperform national averages in several key areas. Outdoor recreation accounts for 5.5 percent of total employment in the state, well above the national average of 3.2 percent. Compensation in the sector also grew 5.2 percent, matching national trends.

The state is tied with Florida for fourth nationally in outdoor recreation’s share of total compensation at 3.8 percent, compared to 2.2 percent nationwide.

However, overall growth in Wyoming lagged behind national trends. Since 2023, economic output and employment in the state’s outdoor recreation sector each grew by just 0.5 percent. Nationally, those figures increased by 4.0 percent and 1.1 percent, respectively.

Key Industries Driving Impact

According to the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation and the Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute, several activities continue to anchor Wyoming’s outdoor economy.

Hunting, shooting, and trapping generated the largest share of economic activity, bringing in nearly $109 million. Other major contributors include RVing, boating and fishing, equestrian activities, and winter recreation such as snowmobiling.

“Our Office is focused on helping to reshape where people recreate,” said Mark Tesoro, manager of the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation. “Educating, dispersing, and reconcentrating user groups ensures the wealth that comes from recreationists is spread to communities across the state.”

Dan McCoy, director of the WORTH Institute, emphasized the broader impact beyond headline economic numbers.

“Outdoor recreation continues to generate meaningful economic benefits for Wyoming communities,” McCoy said. “These numbers translate directly into employment, local business revenues, and investments that enhance quality of life across both rural and gateway communities.”

A Foundational Industry

Even as growth moderates, outdoor recreation remains a foundational part of Wyoming’s economy and identity. From hunting and fishing to winter sports and wide open landscapes, the sector continues to support local businesses, sustain jobs, and draw visitors from across the country.

For rural communities across the Big Horn Basin and beyond, the data reinforces what many already see on the ground: outdoor recreation is not just a pastime, but a vital economic engine shaping Wyoming’s future.