Spending Patterns of Outdoor Recreation Visitors to National Forests
A 2017 report from the USDA examining the economic linkages between national forests and surrounding areas and visitor spending.
Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Publication Date
2017
Location
National or Global
Topic
Economic Impact
Participation
Activity
Bicycling
Birding/Wildlife viewing
Camping
Climbing
Equestrian
Fishing
Hiking/Running
Hunting
Motorized sports (boat, snowmobile, ATV, etc.)
Paddling
Winter sports (downhill, Nordic, tube, snowshoe, snowmobile)
Related Resources
2022 U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account - Wisconsin Summary
A 2022 snapshot of the economic impact of the outdoor recreation industry in Wisconsin, including contributions from top activities, total employment and additional insights.
2014 University of Madison - Madison Extension
The Economic Impacts of Active Silent Sports Enthusiasts
The University of Wisconsin-Madison/Extension Department of Urban and Regional Planning found that on average, the active silent sports enthusiasts reported spending about $468 per trip with about $260 locally within Ashland, Bayfield and Sawyer counties.
2026 Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Participation Report (2026)
A summary and key insights from the Outdoor Industry Association's 2026 participation trends report. The report summarizes the outdoor industry participant base, including the growth and decline in outdoor activities.
Explore the Trends Shaping Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Industry Association: 2025 Outdoor Participation Trends Report
Bureau of Economic Analysis: 2024 Economic Statistics for Wisconsin
Adventure Travel Trade Association: Travel Market Sizing and the New Adventure Traveler
KOA: 2025 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report
American Sportfishing Association: Economic Contributions of Recreational Fishing
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