LARAMIE — The University of Wyoming’s Jay Kemmerer Wyoming Outdoor Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality (WORTH) Institute and the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation have released their annual report on outdoor recreation and its positive impact on Wyoming’s economy. This report documents several key elements of the industry's contribution to the state.

“We’re excited for the release of our annual report,” said Mark Tesoro, manager for the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation. “It showcases how essential it is for agencies, businesses, and organizations to collectively invest in keeping outdoor recreation an important part of our culture, community, and economy.”

Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis’s data showed that outdoor recreation’s positive impact on Wyoming’s economy in 2024 included generating 16,545 jobs and contributing $2.3 billion to the state’s GDP (gross domestic product), a 0.5% increase over 2023.

Visitors and residents of Wyoming enjoyed hunting, shooting, and trapping, bringing in $109 million and ranking as the state’s top economic contributor in the outdoor recreation sector. In a close second, RVing brought in nearly $90 million, underscoring the state as a premier destination for travelers and recreationists. 

“The 2024 BEA data further validates outdoor recreation as a long-term economic development strategy for Wyoming,” says Dan McCoy, director of the University of Wyoming’s Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute. “Sustained expansion of this sector strengthens economic resilience, broadens revenue streams, and supports the vitality of communities throughout the state.”

The report also includes updates from the existing regional Outdoor Recreation Collaboratives. The Office of Outdoor Recreation convenes these quarterly group meetings to coalesce supporters of outdoor recreation in communities across the state.

Updates about the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation & Tourism Trust Fund are also featured in the report. The fund was finalized during the state’s 2024 legislative session, and its intent is to promote, preserve, and enhance Wyoming’s outdoor recreation and tourism infrastructure.

Details about the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Summit, Mountain West Trails Conference, and the Wyoming Firearms & Outdoor Recreation Expo are discussed, all of which promise to unite and encourage outdoor recreation enthusiasts and experts in the state and beyond. 

Visit wyorec.info/WYORECReport_2026 to access the digital version of the report. 

For more information about the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, please visit wyorec.com. For more information about the Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute, visit uwyo.edu/worth.