The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis recently reported that the Outdoor Recreation Industry remained a significant economic driver in 2023, contributing $2.2 billion to Wyoming's economy—equivalent to 4.1% of the state’s GDP—placing Wyoming fifth nationally in this sector.
The total value added by outdoor recreation rose from $2.02 billion or 4.1% of state GDP in 2022, representing a $132 million dollar overall increase to the state’s GDP from 2022 to 2023. Compared to other states, Wyoming’s recreation sector is nearly double the national average in terms of percentage of state GDP. Employment in the sector saw a .4% increase from 2022 to 2023 accounting for 15,798 jobs or 5.3% of the state’s total employment.
Many outdoor recreation activities saw continued growth in 2023. Hunting/shooting/trapping was the third-largest conventional activity for the nation at $14 billion in current-dollar value added and was the largest conventional activity in Wyoming. Wyoming’s top five contributing outdoor recreation activities also included RVing, boating/fishing, snow activities, and equestrian activities.
The year 2023 also saw the first disbursements of the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Grant Program. Made available through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds appropriated by the Wyoming Legislature and approved by Governor Mark Gordon, the grant program was established to award funding to public outdoor recreation projects that focus on the response to COVID-19 impacts, new outdoor recreation infrastructure, and economic impact in local communities. To date, the program has awarded $20,332,258 for twenty-one outdoor projects across the state. The full impact of these grants will not be seen for several more years as recreational projects are developed.
As Wyoming’s outdoor recreation sector continues to expand, strategic developments and investments will be essential for protecting the state’s resources and enhancing recreation on public lands. The state’s Office of Outdoor Recreation is dedicated to promoting and enhancing responsible recreation through various projects, programs, partnerships, and collaboratives involving local, state, and national representatives.
"Outdoor recreation continues to be a vital part of Wyoming's local and state economies, as well as an important aspect of the quality of life for our residents," says Deputy Director Chris Floyd of Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources. "We are excited to see consistent and sustainable growth throughout the state, and we look forward to future investments and improvements through existing programs and new initiatives, such as the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Fund (ORTTF) in 2026."
In March of 2024, Governor Gordon signed HB0067, which established governance for the ORTTF. The fund will support projects related to outdoor recreation infrastructure, planning, and access. So far, $12 million dollars have been deposited into the fund, which is scheduled to receive an additional $6 million in state lodging tax dollars each biennium. With each deposit, $2 million dollars plus interest earned in the fund will be distributed in recreational grants starting on July 1, 2026.
"We are thrilled about the future of the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Fund. This initiative will not only enhance our marketability as a premier travel destination but also enrich the experiences of both residents and visitors alike,” states Diane Shober, executive director of the Wyoming Office of Tourism. “We believe it is crucial for promoting our beautiful landscapes and outdoor lifestyle, ensuring that Wyoming remains a top choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers for years to come."
Nationwide, the outdoor recreation economy accounted for $1.2 trillion or 2.3% of the U.S. GDP. Outdoor recreation accounts for 3.1% of all U.S. employment, or five million total jobs.
For more information, view the full report at www.bea.gov/data/special-topics/outdoor-recreation.