Utah outdoor recreation contributes more than $8.1B to the economy, employs 72,000 people, and is the primary driver behind the tourism industry. Not only does outdoor recreation create $737 million in state and local tax revenues, but it also provides $3.6B in wages and salaries.

In 2022, the Utah State Legislature recognized the growing importance of the outdoors to Utah’s economic prosperity and quality of life and created the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. As part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, the division combines the nation’s first Office of Outdoor Recreation with other state recreation management programs, including Utah’s Boating Program, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, and recreation law enforcement officers.

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation is committed to ensuring every Utahn can live a healthy and active lifestyle through outdoor recreation and access to natural space. The division’s areas of focus include recreational access; safety and education; stewardship and sustainable visitation; and economic growth and opportunity through outdoor recreation.