Getting outside grows Arkansas' economy
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Arkansas' outdoor recreation economy accounted for $4.9 billion in 2024, an estimated 2.6% of the state's GDP, according to U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis data.
Why it matters: The combined industries — everything from boating to equestrian activities — supported more than 43,000 jobs, and have continued modest statewide growth over the last few years.
- The numbers were $3.5 billion (2.4% of GDP) in 2021 and $4 billion (2.5% of GDP) in 2022.
The caveat: It depends on how the numbers are parsed. Last year, Heartland Forward estimated the industry's direct and indirect impact for 2023 at $7.3 billion.
- An analyst for Heartland explained that the number includes ancillary businesses, like fiberglass, sheet metal and seat suppliers for a boat maker.
Flashback: Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders created the Natural State Initiative in 2023, with a mission to grow the state's economy by capitalizing on its natural resources and improving state park services.
Zoom out: Nationwide, the outdoor recreation economy accounted for 2.4% of U.S. GDP in 2024, equivalent to nearly $700 billion.
- GDP for the outdoor economy was up 2.7% — a slowdown from 2023, when it rose 5.3% from the previous year.
- Outdoor recreation accounted for the highest shares of GDP in Hawai'i (6.1%), Alaska (5.3%) and Montana (4.9%).
- It accounted for the smallest shares in Washington, D.C. (1%); New York (1.6%) and Delaware (1.6%).
Yes, but: California led the country in total outdoor recreation spending, at $87.9 billion.
Boating and fishing were the biggest economic drivers among "conventional activities," adding $38.4 billion to the nationwide GDP.
- RVing added $27.5 billion, while hunting, shooting and trapping added another $16.5 billion.
The latest: The Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation is now accepting applications for Guide ARK, the state's new network of verified outdoor guides to connect adventurers with outdoor experts.
- A news release said the service will feature licensed and insured professionals offering guide services for hunting, fishing, paddling, hiking, climbing and cycling.
What's next: Once the initial database is established, the free online directory will be made available at Arkansas.com. An estimated timeline wasn't provided.