Outdoor recreation generates $28.7 billion in spending, supports 277,000 jobs in Texas

Media Releases

Media Contacts

Environment Texas

AUSTIN – This week the Outdoor Industry Association released a state by state analysis of the economic impact of outdoor recreation.  In Texas, the outdoor recreation economy generates $28.7 billion in consumer spending and supports 277,000 direct jobs. The report comes as the Texas Legislature considers a funding crisis in Texas state and local parks that could see the closure of some state parks

Sales taxes on sporting goods such as bicycles and camping gear bring in $128 million in revenue to the state of Texas every year. The sporting goods sales tax was established to keep parks open and well-maintained. However, the Legislature has not allocated the vast majority of these funds to parks, using them instead for unrelated projects and agencies. Sen. Craig Estes of Wichita Falls and Rep. Lyle Larson of San Antonio have filed legislation to quit raiding the sporting goods sales tax.   (HB 105, HB 162, HJR 40, SB 175)

“Our state and local parks are a treasure of Texas, providing beautiful places to hike and camp with our families while protecting our water supply and wildlife habitat,” said Environment Texas Director Luke Metzger. “This report shows our parks are also a major economic engine for Texas. The Legislature should recognize our parks are a smart investment and give them the funds they deserve and need to stay open and protected.”