National parks not only protect and preserve the places we most value, they also generate economic activity in nearby communities and throughout the U.S. economy. Parks support economic growth and jobs through:
- Spending by NPS visitors in communities near parks
- Local purchases of supplies and services for park operations
- Employee payroll spending
- Grants and payments to communities from NPS programs
- Infrastructure repair investments
Click on the links below to explore how Great American Outdoors Act investments and spending by NPS visitors support local economies.
Great American Outdoors Act
Understanding how the public values park resources and services leads to more informed planning and management decisions.
Visitor Spending Effects
Trip-related spending by NPS visitors generates and supports a considerable amount of economic activity within park gateway communities.
Graphic of a roadway and park sign with hikers with title, "Wild Returns." Text in the infographic explains that not only do national parks protect awe-inspiring places, they are also huge generators for the communities that surround them. Visitors contribute billions to regional economies while supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. Contributed to the nation's economy: 55.6 million Jobs supported, including: lodging, restaurants, recreation industries: 415.4 thousand. Visits parks in 2023: 325.5 million Spent nearby gateway communities: 26.4 billion.
Last updated: September 3, 2024