Point Reyes Visitors Brought $149M To Local Economy Last Year: NPS

POINT REYES STATION, CA — An estimated 2.3 million visitors to the Point Reyes National Seashore last year spent tens of millions in communities near the park and supported more than 1,000 jobs, according to the National Park Service.

NPS economists completed the economic analysis for national parks across the U.S., finding Point Reyes generated $117 million in local spending and supported 1,120 jobs for a total economic benefit of $149 million to communities located within 60 miles.

"People come to the Point Reyes National Seashore to relax and enjoy any number of activities the park has to offer, including wildlife viewing, hiking and camping," said Superintendent Craig Kenkel. "We recognize that this tourism is a critical driver to the local economy."

Nationally, NPS economists found 312 million national park visitors spent nearly $24 billion in neighboring communities, supporting more than 378,000 jobs for a total impact of $50.3 billion. The lodging sector reaped the most benefits, accounting for $9 billion, followed by restaurants at $4.6 billion.

In the Golden State, national parks generated $2.7 billion in visitor spending across California. Golden Gate alone was responsible for $1.1 billion, economists found.

A detailed breakdown is available on the National Park Service website.