North Carolina’s national parks generated a substantial 4.1 billion for the state’s economy in 2023, driven by the 20.9 million visitors who visited its scenic landscapes and historical sites, according to a National Park Service report.
This surge in tourism resulted in 2.6 billion in spending, supporting nearly 39,000 jobs across the state.
NPS has also developed an interactive tool to help visitors better understand and leverage these economic impacts. This resource allows users to explore visitor spending, job creation,
According to a press release, NPS Director Chuck Sams emphasized the broader benefits of park visitation across the country. “I’m so proud that our parks and the stories we tell make a lasting impact on more than 300 million visitors a year,” Sams stated.
He added that visitors contribute to local economies by supporting jobs and businesses in states like North Carolina.
Regional Director for Southeast parks, Mark Foust, echoed this sentiment, noting that national parks provide diverse experiences and that visitor spending directly impacts nearby communities.
“In 2023, visitors to national parks in North Carolina spent $2.6 billion and supported 38,800 jobs in local communities. Parks reflect the diversity of our country’s shared heritage and offer unique experiences, for learning, recreation, inspiration, and fun. Visitors come to parks for a variety of experiences, and their spending supports the economies of gateway communities,” Foust explained.
Nationwide, visitors to national parks spent a total of 26.4 billion in 2023, which supported 415,000 jobs and generated 55.6 billion in economic output. The lodging and restaurant sectors benefited the most, with lodging generating $9.9 billion and creating 89,200 jobs, while restaurants contributed $5.2 billion and supported 68,600 jobs.