Outdoor recreation is a major economic driver for Wisconsin. From tourism to manufacturing to retailers and outfitters, it is a job-supporting industry that provides the quality of life Wisconsin residents enjoy. Each year, the Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account of the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis measures the economic activity of outdoor recreation across the nation and for each state.
Key Findings
- $11.2 billion contributed to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP)
- 9.4% growth year over year
- 96,867 jobs across diverse sectors
- 3.2% share of all state employment
- $5.4 billion in compensation provided to Wisconsinites
Reports and Other Resources
In 2024, the Office worked with five communities and The Harbinger Consultancy to develop economic impact reports for outdoor recreation investments. These reports found that outdoor recreation contributes almost $27.3 million in total economic activity to Dodge County, the city of Eau Claire, Lafayette County, Marathon County and the region around WinMan Trails. Additional community benefits include access to health and wellness opportunities, ecosystem improvements and community development gains.
Learn more and read the reports.
- Dodge County studied the economic impact of Dodge County Parks and the Horicon Marsh Visitor and Education Center, finding $8 million in economic activity.
- The city of Eau Claire and Visit Eau Claire studied the economic significance of paved city trails, finding that the trails generate $4.12 million in economic activity.
- Lafayette County found that the Cheese Country Trails generated $7.2 million in economic activity during the 2024 summer season.
- Marathon County, the village of Rib Mountain and Visit Wausau found that the Nine Mile County Forest results in about $3.25 million in economic activity in the region.
- WinMan Trails, a year-round ski and bike facility in Vilas County, generates over $4 million in economic activity.
The Office has published two comprehensive economic reports that detail the impacts of Wisconsin's outdoor recreation industry. Both were produced by Headwaters Economics, a leading independent, bipartisan and nonprofit research firm.
Read the full economic data and impact report for more details on the outdoor industry's contributions to Wisconsin in 2021 and how the Office of Outdoor Recreation works to support this vital industry.
In 2020, the Office released a first-of-its-kind report that provided a comprehensive review of the economic impact of outdoor recreation industry in Wisconsin. Several studies included in the report showed the effects of outdoor recreation are significant drivers of local economies, too.
Read the full 2020 report.