Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that Kentucky State Parks generated $1.1 billion in economic impact in 2024, supporting 8,600 jobs and significantly boosting economic growth across the commonwealth. This finding comes from a new study by Tourism Economics, which also reported that the parks welcomed 9.3 million visitors last year.
The study detailed $591 million in direct spending, comprising $120 million from park operations and $471 million from visitor expenditures. Visitor spending included $164 million on lodging, $127 million on food and beverages, $78 million on recreation, $46 million on retail, $49 million on gasoline, and $15 million on transportation.
Gov. Beshear emphasized the state's commitment, saying, “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.” He added that these investments help attract travelers and ensure parks remain family destinations for generations to come.
Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier highlighted the parks' “massive financial impact” and their contribution to the commonwealth. Kentucky State Parks Commissioner Mark Kellen noted the parks' role in providing public access to natural wonders and hosting various events, stating, “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.”
The Beshear administration has continued investments in tourism, including $71 million for capital construction projects via House Joint Resolution 56 and over $66 million for park upgrades through House Bill 6. These efforts aim to capitalize on Kentucky’s record-breaking tourism success, with 2025 being the best year on record, generating $14.6 billion in economic impact and supporting nearly 97,000 jobs.