Maryland’s Outdoor Recreation Brings $10.6 Billion Economic Boost

Maryland's outdoor recreation sector generated $10.6 billion for the state's economy in 2024, representing 1.9% of the state's gross domestic product. The industry provided jobs for more than 85,000 people and delivered over $5 billion in total compensation for the first time.

A new federal report reveals that Maryland’s outdoor recreation sector delivered a massive $10.6 billion economic boost to the state in 2024, accounting for 1.9% of Maryland’s total gross domestic product. The Bureau of Economic Analysis found that activities ranging from boating and fishing to hiking, hunting, cycling, RVing, camping, and skiing supported more than 85,000 jobs while providing over $5 billion in worker compensation for the first time.

“The latest data reinforces what we see every day across Maryland — outdoor recreation is an economic engine and a quality-of-life asset,” said Sandi Olek, Director of the Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation. “In a state defined by vibrant urban centers and treasured natural resources, investing in outdoor access, sustainable infrastructure, local businesses, and stewardship ensures that our communities remain healthy, resilient, and economically competitive for years to come.”

The Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation, created in 2021, has been working to boost this expanding sector through conferences, community gatherings, and efforts to improve access for adaptive users and underserved populations. Last year, the office unveiled the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Business Directory, an interactive online map featuring more than 650 recreation-focused businesses statewide. The Department of Natural Resources aims to use this directory to link consumers with Maryland companies and drive additional economic expansion.

These outdoor businesses create employment opportunities across numerous fields, from equipment manufacturers and trail construction crews to mechanics, boat operators, instructors, guides, park staff, and retail workers.

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis data, boating and fishing activities alone contributed more than $700 million in economic value to Maryland. The complete economic breakdown by recreational activity is available through the bureau’s official website.

“Our Chesapeake Bay is unique, and it is certainly a big part of who we are and why we live here,” said John Stefancik, Executive Director, Marine Trades Association of Maryland. “With 3,190 miles of shoreline, our waterways and watersports are explored and fished by boaters who have a $4.2 billion economic impact in Maryland and support an industry of 16,871 jobs throughout the state.”

The federal data shows Maryland’s outdoor recreation economy is expanding more rapidly than the national trend. The sector’s contribution to Maryland’s gross domestic product jumped 5.6% from 2023 to 2024, outpacing the 4% national growth rate. The Bureau of Economic Analysis operates under the U.S. Department of Commerce.

“The State of Maryland, our counties, towns, local communities, residents and small independent businesses all benefit greatly from the immense dollars spent on camping, RV’ing and other outdoor recreation in our beautiful state,” said Deb Carter, Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Campgrounds. “Camping attracts people from all walks of life looking for a time to create memories, reduce stress and reconnect with nature. After all, camping just comes naturally in Maryland!”

The state’s Outdoor Recreation Business Directory covers 30 different recreational categories, including newly added sections for history and heritage to commemorate Maryland 250, plus an agritourism section highlighting the office’s collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. Users can search results by county and business category.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Office of Outdoor Recreation plans to support MD 250 events marking the nation’s 250th anniversary, three AgriTrails programs: Sip & Shuck (February-March), Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail (Memorial Day-Labor Day), and Bikes & Brews (September-November); plus the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Summit scheduled for Ocean City in September.