Maine’s Outdoor Industry
With four distinct seasons, virtually every fresh-air adventure one could want, and a highly collaborative, closely-connected outdoor industry, it’s no wonder why Maine ranks fifth in the nation for the value outdoor recreation adds to the economy. Nature-based activities like boating, fishing, camping, hunting, and snowsports have collectively contributed billions of dollars to the state, and the industry as a whole is growing faster than Maine’s overall economy with no signs of slowing down.
It would be easy to attribute this prolific growth to Maine’s reputation as a scenic destination that’s steeped in history, however, it’s also driven by the impact of its legacy brands and new wave of innovative outdoor businesses that have chosen to call this state home.
Maine’s Office of Outdoor Recreation is also elevating the industry by leveraging the state’s assets and outdoor heritage to grow the outdoor recreation economy with partners from both public and private sectors — that’s one seriously powerful force of nature.
Outdoor Recreation is a key driver
of Maine’s economy
of Maine’s economy
$3.9B
Economic impact of Maine’s
outdoor recreation economy
in 2024
No.6
In the nation in the value outdoor
recreation adds to the state’s
economy
8%
Increase in outdoor recreation
manufacturing from 2023 to 2024
32k
Jobs in the outdoor recreation
industry in 2024
$114m
In guided tours/outfitted travel (+17% growth over 2023)
50%
Of new hires reported by outdoor
industry employers in Maine are
under the age of 35
Outdoor recreation contributes to economic success in many ways.

