Supporting Wisconsin's Vital Outdoor Economy: Economic Data and Impact Report
Updated economic data shows the growing outdoor recreation industry contributed $8.7 billion to Wisconsin's gross domestic product in 2021, and the Office of Outdoor Recreation has made strides in strengthening the industry through resources, tools, guidance and inspiration.
Organization
Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation
Publication Date
2022
Location
Wisconsin
Topic
Economic Impact
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
2023 Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation
Wisconsin Outdoor Industry's 2023 Economic Impact
A 2023 economic impact infographic in Wisconsin's Outdoor Industry. Data from the Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account of the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis found that the outdoor industry contributed $11.2 billion to the state's GDP, surpassing the previous record set in 2022 by 9.4%.
2013 University of Wisconsin-Extension
Motorized Recreation in Trailside Communities
A case study of the Cheese Country Trail users and their economic impact in the southwest region of Wisconsin.
2022 Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Participation Report (2022)
A summary and key insights from the Outdoor Industry Association's 2022 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
Measure What Matters
