Harrisburg, PA – According to The Courier Express, Pennsylvania’s outdoor economy experienced substantial growth in 2024, expanding by $1.5 billion to reach a total economic impact of $20.4 billion while supporting more than 177,000 jobs statewide.
The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) highlighted that outdoor recreation contributed an additional 9,000 jobs and $800 million in wages and salaries during the year, elevating total outdoor recreation wages to $9.5 billion across the Commonwealth. This sector now represents 2 percent of Pennsylvania’s gross domestic product, with the state’s outdoor recreation economy surpassing the national growth rate at 2.7 percent.
These achievements were attributed to targeted investments by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in parks, trails, and outdoor recreation infrastructure. Complementing these efforts, the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation (OOR) played a key role in bolstering businesses and communities throughout the state.
“Investing in Pennsylvania’s parks, trails, and outdoor recreation infrastructure is more than protecting our natural resources — it’s about creating good-paying jobs and supporting local communities,” stated DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “From state parks to small businesses across the Commonwealth, these strategic investments are making a real difference for communities and families across Pennsylvania.”
Under the Shapiro administration, outdoor recreation has been integrated into the broader economic development strategy. This included the establishment of the Office of Outdoor Recreation and sustained funding for parks, trails, tourism, and outdoor businesses statewide.
“Outdoor recreation is more than time spent outside — it is a thriving industry in Pennsylvania and a critical driver of economic growth,” remarked OOR Director Nathan Reigner. “With thousands of businesses growing in every county, these investments are creating good-paying jobs and supporting local communities across the Commonwealth.”
Several key sectors fueled this expansion. Outdoor recreation manufacturing saw a 30 percent increase, contributing $3 billion to the state’s economy. In retail, growth reached 10 percent overall, with notable rises in boating and fishing at 11 percent, and hunting, shooting, and trapping surging by 20 percent.
Outdoor recreation tourism advanced by 15 percent, partly due to heightened interest in Pennsylvania’s parks, trails, and outdoor destinations. The fastest-growing area, health and wellness-related outdoor businesses, expanded by 40 percent in 2024, underscoring the diverse opportunities within the sector.
These developments not only bolstered economic indicators but also reinforced Pennsylvania’s position as a leader in outdoor activities. The growth in wages and jobs reflects the sector’s resilience and its ability to generate sustainable employment opportunities. As the state continues to prioritize these investments, the outdoor economy is poised to further enhance local economies and promote healthier lifestyles among residents.
The data from the BEA provides a comprehensive snapshot of how outdoor recreation has become an integral part of Pennsylvania’s economic fabric, driving innovation and community development in rural and urban areas alike. For more information, visit The Courier Express.