Gov. Beshear: Kentucky State Parks Drive $1.1B Economic Impact, Support 8,600 Jobs
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) — A new economic report shows Kentucky’s state parks drive tourism, generate jobs and support local economies. That’s according to a release from the office of Gov. Andy Beshear.
The report from Tourism Economics says, state parks generated $1.1 billion in economic impact in 2024, supporting 8,600 jobs and enhancing economic growth across Kentucky.
“Team Kentucky has made historic investments in Kentucky State Parks because we see how they strengthen the communities they serve and contribute to our record-breaking tourism industry,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Every upgraded lodge, campground, marina and golf course helps attract more travelers to our New Kentucky Home, ensuring our state parks remain destinations for families to enjoy for generations to come.”
In 2024, Kentucky State Parks had 9.3 million visitors which resulted in approximately $591 million in direct spending, including $120 million in park operations and $471 million in visitor spending.
Direct impacts from the parks included:
- $164 million in spending on lodging and accommodation (including hotels/motels, short-term rentals and other lodging);
- $127 million in food and beverage purchases (including full-service restaurants, fast food outlets, convenience stores and alcohol purchases);
- $78 million in recreation and entertainment (including purchases at parks, museums, theaters and other entertainment venues);
- $46 million in retail purchases (including souvenirs, general merchandise and purchases at malls and local retailers);
- $49 million in gasoline purchases; and
- $15 million in transportation costs (including public transportation, bus tours, airfare, taxis and ride shares).
The full economic impact report is available here.
Recently, the governor announced 2025 was Kentucky’s best year on record for tourism, marking the fourth straight record-breaking year with $14.6 billion in economic impact and 96,993 jobs supported.
Kentucky’s state park system includes 44 parks, 17 resort parks and 13 golf courses. Details are available at parks.ky.gov.
