Maryland’s outdoor recreation sector delivered a substantial economic boost in 2024, contributing $10.6 billion in value added to the state’s economy, or 1.9% of Maryland’s gross domestic product, according to newly released data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The sector crossed key milestones, with total compensation for Maryland workers exceeding $5 billion for the first time and employment surpassing 85,000 jobs.
The Bureau of Economic Analysis, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, tracks the outdoor recreation economy through its Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account. Released March 5, 2026, the statistics cover activities including boating, fishing, hiking, hunting, cycling, RVing, camping, and skiing. Maryland’s growth outpaced the national average, with the sector’s contribution to state GDP rising 5.6% from 2023 to 2024, compared to 4% nationwide. Nationally, outdoor recreation accounted for 2.4% of U.S. GDP, or $696.7 billion in value added.
Boating and fishing stood out as major drivers in Maryland, generating more than $700 million in added value. The Marine Trades Association of Maryland highlighted the Chesapeake Bay’s role, noting its 3,190 miles of shoreline support a $4.2 billion economic impact from boating and 16,871 related jobs statewide.
Sandi Olek, director of the Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation, emphasized the sector’s dual role in driving prosperity and enhancing daily life. “The latest data reinforces what we see every day across Maryland — outdoor recreation is an economic engine and a quality-of-life asset,” she said. “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.”
Established in 2021 under the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Office of Outdoor Recreation has advanced the industry through conferences, community events, and initiatives promoting accessibility for adaptive users and underserved groups. In 2025, the office introduced the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Business Directory, an interactive map featuring more than 650 recreation-related businesses. The directory spans 30 categories, including new additions for history and heritage tied to Maryland 250 celebrations and agritourism through a partnership with the Department of Agriculture. Users can filter results by county and business type, with the goal of linking the public to local enterprises and spurring further growth.
The sector supports diverse employment, from equipment manufacturers and trail builders to boat captains, instructors, guides, park rangers, and retail specialists. Deb Carter, executive director of the Maryland Association of Campgrounds, pointed to camping’s broad appeal. “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,” she said. “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!”
Looking ahead, the Office of Outdoor Recreation has lined up initiatives for 2026, including events for Maryland 250, the nation’s 250th anniversary. Planned programs feature three AgriTrails: Sip & Shuck from February to March, Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and Bikes & Brews from September to November. The Maryland Outdoor Recreation Summit is scheduled for September in Ocean City, bringing together industry stakeholders.
These efforts build on the sector’s momentum, positioning outdoor recreation as a vital component of Maryland’s economic landscape amid its mix of urban vitality and natural assets.