These National Parks Are the 'Most Valuable' to the Economy

While conservation often runs counter to economic interests, it should come as no surprise to outdoor enthusiasts that our nation’s National Parks are economic engines in their own right. And while a park’s value goes far beyond the tourist dollars it generates, some certainly demand top dollar from visitors.

According to 2023 National Park Visitor Spending Impacts reported by survey National Parks ExplorerParks have benefited the U.S. economy by $55.6 billion and supported 415,400 jobs in the process.

These figures include $9.9 billion for accommodation subsidies and $5.2 billion for restaurants — a $5.2 billion increase from just one year ago.

The 10 most valuable parks for the local economy are:

  1. Great Smoky Mountain National Park, NC and TN – $2.2 billion
  2. Golden Gate National Recreation Area, CA – $1.5 billion
  3. Blue Ridge Parkway, VA and NC – $1.4 billion
  4. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ – $768 million
  5. Grand Teton National Park, WY – $738 million
  6. Zion National Park, UT – $676 million
  7. Cape Hatteras National Seashore, NC – $644 million
  8. Yellowstone National Park, WY, MT and ID – $623 million
  9. Rocky Mountain National Park, CO – $569 million
  10. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, – $540 million

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