National parks found to be major factor in boosting Washington State’s economy

OLYMPIA, Wash. — A recent report found Washington’s 15 national parks benefited the economy to the tune of $677 million in 2017.

The National Park Service says 8.4 million people visited our national parks last year and spent more than $562 million which resulted in more than 6,500 jobs.

The regional parks director says national park tourism is a significant economical driver, not just locally, but nationally, with a return of $10 for every $1 invested.

Visitors spent the most on lodging and camping.