Minnesota’s outdoor recreation economy shows steady growth for 2024

A new report from Explore Minnesota says the state’s outdoor economy has continued to grow as an economic activity driver.

Information gathered from the Bureau of Economic Analysis(BEA) states that outdoor recreation, such as boating and fishing, generated $13.5 billion in value for the state’s economy in 2023.

Data indicates that participation in various outdoor activities has also increased, along with a rise in related industries, including arts, entertainment, general recreation, accommodation, and food services.

Actual growth in Minnesota’s outdoor recreation sector was a 10.5% increase in value from 2022, something Explore Minnesota said was modest but strong and stable.

“These numbers demonstrate that outdoor recreation remains a critical economic engine for Minnesota, even as our industry navigates various economic headwinds,” said Lauren Bennett McGinty, Executive Director of Explore Minnesota. “From the Boundary Waters to the bluff country, our outdoor spaces enrich quality of life and provide sustainable economic opportunities across the state.”

Other key findings for Minnesota include:

• Boating and fishing remain dominant activities, generating over $1.1 billion in value-added to the state’s economy.
• RVing contributed $528 million to the state’s economy.
• Hunting, shooting, and trapping activities generated $554 million.
• Snow activities produced $238 million in value-added.

Nationwide, the outdoor recreation economy has generated over $1.2 trillion in economic output and created five million jobs, marking another year of growth.