University of Missouri study shows state park system is great for Missouri economy

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KQTV) -- An economic impact analysis study conducted by the University of Missouri showed the state's park system is positive for the state's economy.

The study showed Missouri's parks generated about $1.5 billion in total business sales and supported nearly 12,000 jobs.

"We've always known Missouri's 93 state parks and historic sites are a tremendous asset to the state," Missouri Department of Natural Resources Director Kurt Schaefer said. "The system operates on a $68 million annual budget, but it obviously brings a much bigger economic benefit to Missouri citizens and our visitors. Tourism, outdoor recreation and cultural interpretation remain as popular today as they've ever been."

The study surveyed visitors in state parks and also analyzed the Katy Trail State Park, which underscored how outdoor recreation drives significant financial growth into local communities through retail, hospitality and ripple effects.

"Our state parks and historic sites do more than preserve Missouri's natural beauty and history," said Laura Hendrickson, director of Missouri State Parks. "This analysis shows that park visits, historic site tours or rides on the Katy Trail funnel visitor dollars directly into nearby restaurants, shops and lodging."

Initial visitor spending combined with purchases such as hiking gear, camping supplies or outdoor apparel, and calculated against economic effects from Missouri's approximately 20 million park visitors, the data shows:

• $1.5 billion in total sales for Missouri businesses
• $882.7 million added directly to the state's Gross Domestic Product
• $514.7 million was produced in local labor and payroll income
• 11,890 jobs sustained across Missouri

Day trippers spent an average of $46 to $67 per day, while overnight guests spent an average of $64 to $148 per day during their stays.

Summer is the peak season for Missouri Parks, with visitors averaging 23 park days annually. Day trips, averaging four hours, make up 57% of park use, while overnight trips account for 43% and average four days in length, with 90% of overnight users taking advantage of park campgrounds.

The most popular activities at parks include walking, running and hiking. Visitors also frequently venture out of the parks to visit local shops and restaurants.

Survey responders also reported public benefits, highly approving of the park system’s affordability, family-friendly atmosphere and its contribution to improving mental health, reducing stress and supporting the outdoors.

The primary source of funding for Missouri’s state park system is half of the dedicated constitutional tax of one-tenth-of-one-percent Parks, Soils and Water Sales Tax. The tax provides about three-fourths of the budget for the operation and development of state parks.

All additional funding for Missouri's Division of State Parks comes from revenues generated in the state park system and some federal funds.