The Outdoor Economy Grows Wild in Arkansas

Arkansas, well known for its forests, rivers, and rolling hills, turned its natural beauty into significant economic gains in 2024. The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism reported that the state welcomed 52 million visitors, a 2.6 percent increase over the previous year.

These visitors contributed 17.4 billion dollars to Arkansas’s economy, including 10.3 billion dollars in direct spending and an additional 7.1 billion dollars generated through supply chains and income-related effects.

On a daily basis, tourists spent an average of 28.2 million dollars, supporting more than 70,000 jobs across the state. Spending on food and beverage led the way with three billion dollars, a 6.5 percent rise from 2023. Other sectors, including retail, recreation, lodging, and transportation, also experienced steady growth. Remarkably, Arkansas ranked fourth in the nation for visitor spending on fast food despite its relatively small population.

Outdoor Recreation Drives Jobs and Growth

The rise in outdoor recreation jobs has been particularly striking. In 2024 alone, Arkansas added more than 2,300 positions in the sector, bringing total employment to nearly 33,000.

For state officials, the outdoor economy is more than numbers. It is a lifeline for both rural and urban communities. From guiding river tours to running local outfitters and supporting lodging and dining, the industry creates a web of economic opportunity that reaches nearly every corner of Arkansas.

The Role of the Natural State Initiative

Governor Sarah Sanders highlighted the Natural State Initiative, led by her husband, Bryan Sanders, as a key driver behind the surge. The initiative is designed to help Arkansas harness its natural assets, grow the outdoor economy, and become a year-round destination.

“The latest tourism numbers show clear signs that the strategy is paying off,” she said, emphasizing the state’s growing national profile as a place for recreation and adventure.

Shea Lewis, head of Arkansas Parks and Tourism, echoed the sentiment, attributing the state’s appeal to its natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere.

“It’s the landscapes, the outdoor activities, and the genuine Southern hospitality,” Lewis said. “Visitors keep coming back, and that keeps the economy moving.”

Eco-Tourism and Future Growth

Arkansas’s dedication to protecting its natural resources and expanding eco-tourism is showing results. Hiking trails, river adventures, and state parks are attracting attention not just from nearby states but from across the country.

Officials anticipate that the state’s outdoor offerings will continue to grow in importance, drawing new visitors while strengthening local businesses and communities.

In a competitive tourism landscape, Arkansas is staking its claim by leaning into what it has always had: natural landscapes that inspire adventure, a culture of hospitality, and an outdoor economy that is just beginning to reach its full potential.