The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) earlier this month released its latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account data, reaffirming outdoor recreation as a major driver of New Hampshire’s economy and a significant contributor nationwide.
In New Hampshire, the sector supports more than 33,000 jobs, generates approximately $1.8 billion in wages and compensation, and contributed $4.2 billion in value added in 2024, representing 3.5% of the state’s GDP.
“Reliable data like this allows New Hampshire to plan for growth,” said Janel Lawton, director of the New Hampshire Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development. “Outdoor recreation grew 5.3% in 2024, nearly double the national rate. This sector continues to strengthen rural communities, support workforce development and maintain New Hampshire’s competitive edge.”
Outdoor recreation plays a substantial role in New Hampshire’s economy. While the sector represents 2.4% of U.S. GDP, it accounts for 3.5% of New Hampshire’s economy, supporting roughly one in every 22 jobs statewide. Nationally, outdoor recreation generated $696.7 billion in economic value in 2024, and when measured as total economic output, including travel spending, equipment manufacturing, retail activity and supporting industries, the sector represents approximately $1.3 trillion across the U.S. economy.
“Outdoor recreation is not a peripheral sector in New Hampshire; it is a central pillar of our economic landscape,” said Tyler Ray, director of Granite Outdoor Alliance. “These numbers reinforce what businesses and communities across the state already know: Outdoor recreation drives jobs, supports small businesses and fuels economic activity across New Hampshire. As we look ahead, maintaining our competitive edge will require treating this sector as a strategic economic asset and aligning policy, infrastructure and workforce systems to support its long-term growth.”
The data also highlights the diversity of outdoor recreation activities contributing to New Hampshire’s economy. Leading sectors include snow recreation ($257 million), RVing ($253 million), hunting and shooting sports ($245 million), boating and fishing ($188 million), and hiking and camping ($83 million), demonstrating the breadth of outdoor recreation opportunities that support year-round economic activity.
“New Hampshire ranking sixth in the nation for snow recreation activity, generating more than $257 million annually, underscores just how important winter sports are to our state’s outdoor economy,” said Jessyca Keeler, president of Ski NH. “Our ski areas and winter recreation partners attract visitors from across the region and support the local businesses and communities that rely on a strong winter season.”
“New Hampshire’s trails and backcountry landscapes are not only a cornerstone of the outdoor experience here, they are an important part of the state’s economy,” said Chris Thayer of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC). “With more than $83 million generated by hiking and camping activities alone, this data highlights how outdoor recreation supports local communities while reinforcing the importance of continued stewardship and investment in the trails and public lands that make these experiences possible. As AMC celebrates 150 years of bringing people together outdoors, we’re reminded that protecting and stewarding these landscapes is essential not only for recreation, but for the communities and economies that depend on them now and in the future.”
The Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account was authorized through bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen to ensure consistent measurement of the industry’s economic impact nationwide.
“New Hampshire’s diverse outdoor spaces are what make the Granite State so special. From the shores of the Seacoast to our Lakes Region and the White Mountains, outdoor recreation enriches local economies, small businesses and communities across our state,” said Senator Shaheen. “As (the BEA) report makes clear, New Hampshire’s outdoor economy is thriving. I am proud to have led the legislation that requires this annual report, and I look forward to continuing to champion programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund that protect and provide access to treasured places from the Appalachian Trail to local parks.”
As New Hampshire continues to compete for workforce talent, business investment and infrastructure funding, the updated data provides important insights for policymakers and industry leaders seeking to support long-term economic resilience and sustainable growth.
The BEA Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account full report is available at www.bea.gov/sites/default/files/2026-03/ores0326.pdf.
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) earlier this month released its latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account data, reaffirming outdoor recreation as a major driver of New Hampshire’s economy and a significant contributor nationwide.
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