OUTDOOR RECREATION IS AN ECONOMIC DRIVER
Wyoming Ranks High Nationally
In 2023 Wyoming was one of the top economic performers nationally in outdoor recreation.
Wyoming was 5th in the nation for percentage of state employment – at 5.3%, and with a robust 4.1% of state gross domestic product (GDP), our state ranks 4th highest of all states. As in past years, Wyoming’s outdoor recreation employment growth rate – at 7.7% – out performed the state’s overall rate.
Graphic courtesy Outdoor Recreation Rountable
State of Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Economic Report Released
The 2025 Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Report details the growth and economic contributions of outdoor recreation in Wyoming, highlighting its importance to the state's GDP, job creation, and community development. It showcases various projects, grants, and initiatives across the state aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation infrastructure and accessibility while ensuring sustainable growth and conservation of natural resources.
Outdoor recreation contributes to economic success in many ways.
Wyoming has great outdoor recreation assets - with forests, wildife, parks, rivers, wide open spaces, snowy mountains and more - that bring tourists and support Main Street businesses.
The outdoor industry in Wyoming is strong, multifaceted and growing. It serves to diversify our state’s economy for almost any location – large city or small town. Developments can be right-sized and tailored to the unique attributes and interests of that community, benefiting locals and visitors alike.
Our outdoor quality of life and recreational opportunity attract new residents, retirement income, entrepreneurs and connected businesses - especially in field of gear manufacturing.
Photo courtesy Weatherby