Report: Arkansas’ outdoor recreation sector provides $7.3 billion economic impact

Outdoor recreation contributes $7.3 billion to Arkansas’ GDP and supports 68,431 jobs in the state, according to a new report from Bentonville-based Heartland Forward. The numbers account for indirect and induced impacts of the sector.

On Monday (Feb. 24), Heartland Forward released the first-of-its-kind Arkansas Outdoor Recreation Impact Report at the Arkansas Outdoor Economy Summit, which is being hosted in Bentonville along with the Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

According to a news release, Arkansas’ outdoors contribute significantly to the state’s $9.9 billion tourism industry. Nationwide, outdoor recreation attracts millions of tourists each year, generates $1.2 trillion in economic output, and supports 5 million jobs.

“Arkansas is home to some of the country’s most stunning natural landmarks, making the state a rich place to live and creating a thriving outdoor recreation industry that is key to economic success,” said Ross DeVol, chairman and CEO of Heartland Forward. “To maintain this momentum, we need strategic investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and policy. Heartland Forward remains committed to supporting the growth of this thriving industry and expanding Arkansas’ economic leadership throughout the heartland.”

Following are key findings in the report:
• The outdoor recreation sector directly contributed $4.5 billion (2.5%) to the state’s GDP, a 33% increase from 2019 to 2023.
• Outdoor recreation generated $926 million in federal, $729 million in state, and $240 million in local tax revenue in 2023.
• Arkansas ranks fourth in the nation for its share of GDP generated by outdoor product manufacturing.
• Outdoor amenity construction’s contribution to Arkansas GDP contribution increased 52.7% over the past four years, attributed in part to bike trail expansion projects.
• In 2023, 31.3% of Arkansas’ outdoor recreation jobs were in the Northwest region and 27.2% in Central Arkansas.
• The fishing sector grew by 36.8% in GDP contribution from 2019 to 2023, and the Arkansas boating industry ranks sixth nationally for its impact as a share of state GDP.

“The findings of this report highlight outdoor recreation’s growing influence on jobs and GDP, showcasing how it can drive innovation in product development, tourism and local economies,” said Jonas “Cass” Crews, research director for talent pipeline at Heartland Forward. “With continued investment, Arkansas can become a model for sustainable economic development and employment opportunities that capitalize on the natural beauty of the heartland.”

The Arkansas Outdoor Recreation Impact Report also includes a new dataset, using artificial intelligence to analyze 90,000 companies and identify outdoor recreation-focused businesses in Arkansas.

“By leveraging key analyses in this report, we can make data-driven decisions that strengthen Arkansas’ outdoor economy, create new opportunities for businesses and communities, and ensure the industry continues to thrive for future generations,” said Katherine Andrews, director of the Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation.

Also Monday, the state office released the 2025 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). It’s a five-year plan that highlights key priorities for investment, accessibility, and conservation. The plan will be a guide for long-term planning and is required to be eligible for federal funding, such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund through the National Park Service.

“Outdoor recreation is more than just an activity — it’s a powerful economic driver that fuels local businesses, creates jobs and strengthens communities across Arkansas,” Andrews said. “The insights from SCORP will help us build on our successes and continue to position Arkansas as a national leader in the outdoor economy.”

The state is investing in trail development, water access projects, and workforce training initiatives. Following are some notable outdoor recreation projects, according to state officials.
• Development of trails and recreation spaces, including Trails at Mena, Petit Jean State Park, Delta Heritage Trail, and Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area.
• Enhancements to Lake Conway, Saline River, and Bayou Bartholomew to improve outdoor access and conservation efforts.
• Workforce development through programs like the trail technician program at NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC), which equips Arkansans with skills for careers in outdoor recreation.
• Entrepreneurial growth through initiatives such as the Statewide Guide Vetting Program, Natural State Initiative Opportunity Zones, Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP), and an Outdoor Recreation Venture Fund that will support small businesses and innovation in the outdoor sector.