Gov. Andy Beshear announced that Kentucky State Parks generated $1.1 billion in economic impact in 2024, supporting 8,600 jobs and helping fuel economic growth across the Commonwealth.
“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. 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.”
A new study conducted by Tourism Economics found that Kentucky State Parks welcomed 9.3 million visitors in 2024. Kentucky State Parks generated an estimated $591 million in direct spending, including $120 million in park operations and $471 million in visitor spending.
The parks’ direct impact 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).
State park visitation reached communities in every region of Kentucky, ranging from approximately 3,500 visits in Knott County to more than 700,000 visits in Trigg County. Marshall County and Jefferson County each welcomed nearly one million state park visitors.
“The Kentucky State Parks system is vital to our New Kentucky Home’s heritage and legacy, and we now have proof of Parks’ massive financial impact,” said Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier. “These numbers demonstrate how much the parks truly contribute to our commonwealth and underline the importance of continuing to invest in them so that future generations can enjoy the same incredible experiences.”
“We’ve known for years how significant state parks are to the Commonwealth, not just in terms of revenue, but in allowing free access for the public to the Commonwealth’s natural wonders,” said Kentucky State Parks Commissioner Mark Kellen. “Our parks play host to weddings, family reunions, hiking trips, and visitors from all over the country. This report shows how all of those events and tourists pay dividends to Kentucky and why we need to further our commitment to funding capital projects and updates for the Parks system.”
To see a full economic impact report, click here.