Kentucky State Parks welcomed 9.3 million visitors in 2024, generating $1.1 billion in economic impact and supporting 8,600 jobs across the commonwealth, according to a report released by the Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet. The study, conducted by Tourism Economics, underscores the state parks system's vital role in driving tourism and strengthening local economies statewide.

The $591 million in direct spending included $120 million in park operations and $471 million in visitor expenditures. State park visitors spent significant sums on recreation and entertainment, retail purchases, and transportation services. "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," Gov. Andy Beshear said in a statement.

The state park system's reach extends across all regions. Visitor numbers ranged from approximately 3,500 in Knott County to more than 700,000 in Trigg County, with Marshall County and Jefferson County each welcoming nearly 1 million state park visitors. Kentucky's state park system includes 44 parks, 17 resort parks and 13 golf courses.

Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier highlighted the significance of the findings. "The Kentucky State Parks system is vital to our New Kentucky Home's heritage and legacy, and we now have proof of Parks' massive financial impact," Casebier said, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in park infrastructure.

The announcement comes as Kentucky tourism set a record in 2025 with a $14.6 billion economic impact, marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking growth. State parks have emerged as a cornerstone of the commonwealth's tourism strategy and broader economic development agenda under the governor's "New Kentucky Home" initiative.