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.