Moving forward together: Pennsylvania’s $18.9 billion outdoor recreation economy and opportunities for future coordination

By Chris Perkins, Vice President of Programs, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable

Pennsylvania’s vast natural landscapes, from the Pennsylvania Wilds to the corners of the state, featuring miles of rivers and lush forests, make it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

But beyond offering scenic beauty and adventure, the outdoor recreation industry is becoming an economic powerhouse for the Commonwealth.

As demand for outdoor experiences rises, so does the potential for Pennsylvania to harness this momentum to benefit businesses, communities, and the broader economy.

Chris Perkins is Vice President of Programs at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, where he works to promote the sustainable growth of the outdoor recreation economy.

In my role at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), the nation’s leading coalition of organizations representing the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy, I help bring together outdoor recreation activities from hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, hunting, and fishing, to boating, horseback riding, off-roading, RVing, hospitality, camping, and many others around the same table to illustrate outdoor recreation’s positive impacts to our economy and society alike.

And in this role, Pennsylvania continues to offer innovation and inspiration for states nationwide.

Outdoor Recreation Important Contributor to Pennsylvania Economy

Outdoor recreation in the Keystone State is more than just a weekend pastime — it’s a significant economic driver.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, outdoor recreation contributes $18.9 billion annually to Pennsylvania’s economy and supports 168,322 jobs.

When looking at Pennsylvania’s economy overall, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis data tells an even more compelling story — outdoor recreation contributes more to

Pennsylvania’s economy than oil and gas extraction, utilities, trucking, warehousing, and data centers.

Since 2012, this critical sector for Pennsylvania has grown nearly 5 percent annually.  

Outdoor recreation’s economic impact is diversified and prevalent across the Commonwealth.

The industry includes businesses in outdoor gear manufacturing, tourism, guiding services, hospitality, and conservation efforts, all working together to fuel growth.

Activities like hiking, fishing, biking, and boating generate substantial revenue for local businesses, from outfitters and retailers to restaurants and lodging providers.

The demand for outdoor experiences has surged in recent years, particularly as people seek healthier, nature-based lifestyles. This increase in participation translates into job creation and economic stability for communities across the state.

That’s where Pennsylvania’s Elevate initiative comes in. Investing in outdoor businesses isn’t just good for entrepreneurs — it’s good for entire communities.

Strengthening Pennsylvania’s Outdoor Recreation Industry

Many rural and small-town economies in Pennsylvania have historically relied on industries like manufacturing or coal mining, which have seen decline.

When outdoor businesses thrive, they create a ripple effect in local economies. Restaurants see more patrons, lodging providers experience higher occupancy rates, and local artisans and retailers benefit from increased foot traffic.

Additionally, the presence of strong outdoor recreation opportunities improves residents’ quality of life, making these communities more attractive places to live and work.

Pennsylvania has already carved out a leadership role through the creation of its Office of Outdoor Recreation in 2023 by Governor Shapiro, and now the Elevate initiative and the prospect of a new Pennsylvania Outdoor Business Alliance offers another leap forward.

Whether through policy support, business incentives, or public-private partnerships, the state has an opportunity to lead the way in demonstrating how outdoor recreation can be a major force for economic and community development.

To fully tap into Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation potential, businesses and stakeholders need to work together.

Coordination between outfitters, retailers, tourism boards, conservation groups, and policymakers can help create a more cohesive industry. By sharing resources, marketing efforts, and advocacy initiatives, businesses can amplify their impact and attract even more visitors.

By investing in infrastructure, fostering business development, and strengthening statewide collaboration, Pennsylvania can set the standard for outdoor recreation economies across the country.

Whether through policy support, business incentives, or public-private partnerships, the state has an opportunity to lead the way in demonstrating how outdoor recreation can be a major force for economic and community development.

As more people discover Pennsylvania’s outdoor offerings, the industry will continue to thrive.

Now is the time for businesses, policymakers, and community leaders to come together to ensure a bright and sustainable future for outdoor recreation in the Commonwealth.

WEBINAR: 2023 — A Tremendous Year for Pennsylvania’s Outdoor Recreation Industry!

New data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows that Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry saw tremendous growth in 2023.

In this webinar, recorded Wednesday, December 11, the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation discussed the new data and provided context about what it means for the Commonwealth.

In addition, several outdoor recreation industry stakeholders shared their thoughts on what they are experiencing and how an effort to grow a unified and active outdoor recreation industry will provide more opportunity to make Pennsylvania a national leader in outdoor recreation, entrepreneurial opportunity, and job creation.

Speakers:

• Nathan Reigner, Director, Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation

• Dave Pryor, Co-Founder and Event Director, unPAved

• Matthew Smith, PREVAIL Ventures and ELEVATED Consulting

• Christie Colin, eComm Manager, PREVAIL Ventures

• Jennifer Marsh, VP of Business Development, Bedford County Development Association

• Silas Chamberlin, Principal, Firefly Outdoor + Economics

Pennsylvania's Outdoor Recreation Economy Grows to $19 Billion

Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation industry saw significant growth last year, contributing $19 billion to the state's economy — a 10 percent increase from 2022 — and representing 2 percent of the Commonwealth's gross domestic product. According to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the industry now supports over 168,000 jobs that provide $9 billion in wages and salaries to Pennsylvanians, up from 164,000 jobs in 2022.

Since day one, Governor Josh Shapiro has made strategic investments to elevate outdoor recreation, transforming it into a cornerstone of Pennsylvania's economy and communities. These efforts are driving economic growth, fostering entrepreneurial opportunities, and creating jobs across the Commonwealth.

“My Administration is committed to supporting and growing the outdoor recreation industry, which strengthens local economies, creates jobs, and enhances the quality of life for Pennsylvanians and visitors alike," said Governor Shapiro. “By investing in outdoor recreation, we're not just creating economic opportunity but also celebrating the natural beauty that makes Pennsylvania so unique. We will continue working to make the Commonwealth a national leader, where millions of visitors and residents can go to spend time outside with the people they love."

Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has delivered on key priorities to bolster Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation sector:

• Historic Investments: Secured the largest state park and forest infrastructure funding in decades, enhancing access and sustainability.

• Office of Outdoor Recreation: Established a dedicated office to unite and grow Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation industry.

• Tourism Promotion: Increased funding to position Pennsylvania as a top destination for outdoor adventures, boosting tourism, and local communities through the Great American Getaway.

• Economic Development: Supported initiatives to create jobs and attract businesses, fostering innovation and long-term growth.

  
  

“These investments show that outdoor recreation is more than just an enjoyable pastime — it's a thriving industry that supports businesses, creates jobs, and generates substantial economic output across Pennsylvania," said Pennsylvania's Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner.

New Initiative to Engage Outdoor Businesses

The Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation recently launched Elevate, a business engagement initiative designed to strengthen the outdoor economy by connecting with the businesses that power it. Outdoor recreation businesses are encouraged to provide feedback to shape the future of this key economic sector.

Impact Across Pennsylvania

In 2023, outdoor recreation activities in Pennsylvania saw significant growth, including:

• Cycling, water activities, and snow sports: Over 20 percent growth, supported by investments in infrastructure and accessibility.

• Hunting, fishing, and archery: Continued growth as staples of Pennsylvania's outdoor culture.

• Festivals and outdoor events: An emerging segment attracting visitors and boosting local economies.

  
  

“Pennsylvania's extensive trails and active transportation infrastructure are critical to the success of our industry," said Milay Galvez, Director of Advocacy and Engagement at BikeCo. “These investments help businesses grow, foster community connections, and promote healthier lifestyles."

“Outdoor events are an often-overlooked gem of Pennsylvania's recreation economy," said Dave Pryor, co-founder of unPAved. “Our natural resources and hardworking recreation managers create unique opportunities that bring thousands of visitors to communities across the state. These visitors don't just come once — they return again and again."

The U.S. outdoor recreation economy contributed 2.3 percent, or $639.5 billion, to the nation's GDP in 2023. As the eighth-largest outdoor recreation economy in the country, Pennsylvania remains at the forefront through strategic partnerships and workforce development initiatives. Educational partners like Ben Franklin Technology Partners are supporting innovation and job creation in the outdoor industry.

“Innovation is the foundation of sustainable economic growth," said Steve Brawley, President and CEO of Ben Franklin Technology Partners. “Pennsylvania's outdoor industry exemplifies this, from advanced manufacturing techniques to new recreation services. We're proud to help businesses create high-quality jobs that enrich our economy."

Learn more about Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation economic opportunities through the Office of Outdoor Recreation, the Elevate initiative, and through the Commonwealth's Economic Development Strategy.