Outdoors Boom No More? Industry Now Lags Behind US Economy Overall

The outdoor recreation industry contributed $696.7 billion to U.S. GDP in 2024 (unadjusted for inflation), marking a 2.7% growth from 2023 but lagging slightly behind the overall U.S. economy’s 2.8% expansion. This slowdown ends the post-pandemic surge, with travel and tourism driving nearly half the output at $315 billion, while core activities like boating and RVing dipped or stagnated. Industry advocates urge federal action on access, infrastructure, and permitting amid 2025 agency cuts, despite rising interest shown by record national park visits and AllTrails’ 75% user growth.

Key Growth Trends

Over the past decade, the sector grew 78% from $391 billion in 2014, crossing $1 trillion in gross output by 2022. Hunting surged by $13 billion in 2024, while climbing, hiking, and tent camping added $6.2 billion but remain minor drivers.

Challenges Ahead

Federal layoffs in 2025 hit public lands agencies hard, potentially hindering momentum despite supportive laws like the EXPLORE Act. Leaders remain optimistic, citing sustained popularity in outdoor pursuits. Gear Junkie