OUTDOOR RECREATION IS AN ECONOMIC DRIVER
Wyoming Ranks High Nationally
Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of Wyoming's economy. In 2024, the industry generated $2.3 billion in economic activity, supported 16,545 direct jobs, and accounted for 4.5% of Wyoming's GDP—the fifth-highest share of any state. Visitors also spent $4.9 billion while traveling and recreating throughout Wyoming, reinforcing the industry's role in supporting local businesses, communities, and the state's economy. These findings, published by the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation and the University of Wyoming's Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute, underscore why WYORBA continues to advocate for policies and investments that strengthen Wyoming's outdoor recreation economy.
Graphic courtesy Outdoor Recreation Rountable
State of Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Economic Report Released
Outdoor recreation is more than a way of life in Wyoming—it is a powerful economic driver that supports businesses, creates jobs, strengthens rural communities, and enhances our quality of life.
The Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation and the University of Wyoming's Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute have released a comprehensive report examining the current state of Wyoming's outdoor recreation economy. Developed through extensive research by WORTH Institute students and faculty, the report provides valuable insights into the industry's economic impact, workforce, business climate, and opportunities for future growth.
At WYORBA, we believe data is essential to making informed decisions and advocating for policies that help Wyoming's outdoor recreation businesses thrive. This report offers an important resource for business owners, community leaders, policymakers, and anyone invested in the future of outdoor recreation in our state.
We encourage you to explore the findings and use this information to help shape conversations about the future of Wyoming's outdoor recreation economy.
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