According to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, of the 6.7 million jobs expected to be added by 2033, roughly one in eight will be in the leisure and hospitality sector. This marks the third-largest projected increase among the 17 major industry sectors, trailing only professional business services and healthcare and social assistance. Analysts attribute this rise in part to the enduring popularity of outdoor activities, ranging from hiking and boating to camping and golf.
The outdoor recreation economy accounted for 2.3% of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023, based on figures from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). While seasonal demand for outdoor activities typically peaks during summer, Bank of America data indicates that household spending on outdoor recreation in June was down 3.3% year-over-year on a three-month moving average. However, this decline was notably less severe than the drop seen in indoor activity spending, which has been in sustained decline since mid-2023.
Western states continue to lead in outdoor recreation value-add, with Hawaii topping the list at 6.3% of state GDP. In contrast, states like Delaware, Connecticut, and New York recorded the lowest shares at 1.6%. The BEA classifies outdoor recreation into three categories: conventional activities such as hiking and boating; other activities like gardening and concerts; and supporting activities including travel, tourism, and infrastructure development.
Boating and fishing stood out as the largest contributors within the “conventional activities” category, particularly in states such as Florida, California, and Texas. However, Bank of America card data reveals a downward trend in boating-related spending since 2023. In contrast, campsite spending has surged since April, reaching its highest growth levels since early 2022. Analysts suggest that affordability, increased focus on wellness, and a shift toward domestic road trips are driving this trend – especially among younger generations.
Indeed, the 2025 Bank of America Summer Travel Trends Survey found that nature escapes and wellness retreats now surpass traditional tourist hotspots in popularity. Furthermore, a proprietary survey revealed that 24% of respondents dedicated time in June to improving their mental and emotional wellbeing. Gen X, in particular, has shown the most significant increase in campsite spending year-to-date, while also recording the weakest growth in boating expenses.
Data from the National Park Service indicates that Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains are the most visited U.S. national parks in 2025 so far. Nevertheless, overall national park visits have declined compared to the previous year, potentially due to reduced visitor center hours following federal funding adjustments.
As consumer preferences evolve and leisure habits increasingly favor nature-based and wellness-oriented experiences, the outdoor recreation economy is expected to remain a key contributor to U.S. employment growth and regional economic development—especially in states leveraging their natural assets.
