With an estimated economic impact of $375 million, Alabama’s 22 state parks fuel far more than family vacations and outdoor excursions.

A recent study concluded the statewide network of picturesque locales supported 5,340 jobs – totaling about $140 million in earnings – and attracted an estimated $152.4 million in visitor spending in 2011, the most recent year for which data was available.

Economists Samuel Addy and Ahmad Ijaz with the Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Alabama's Culverhouse College of Commerce conducted the analysis.

Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein said the study confirms what anyone working in the system already knows: that “state parks are valuable tools to promote the state’s economy.”

“But the study gave us real numbers for state parks’ overall economic impact and the many public and private jobs that depend on them,” Lein said.

For instance, the report revealed state parks generate $10.9 million in state and local taxes annually.

The State Parks Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources commissioned the study to determine the combined economic impact of all 22 parks.

According to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which commissioned the study, the state parks division recorded more than 4.6 million visits in 2012 and marks its 75th anniversary this year. In turn, the Alabama Tourism Department has named 2014 “Year of the Parks” during which celebratory hikes; nature walks and programs; dining and camping specials; and myriad other special events will be offered.

By comparison, visitors in 2012 to the seven national parks across the state spent only $26.5 million, supporting only 381 jobs.

Lein also noted the majority of the state parks’ operational funds are generated through direct user fees, meaning everyone from campers and boaters to fishermen and golfers has a direct impact not just on a facility’s ability to remain open but on the overall economic impact.

“Our slogan is ‘Partners Pay the Way.’ But it’s more than a slogan. We really do rely heavily on our customers…to pay the bills. We want them to know their dollars count in the parks and in the state’s economy,” he said.

Lein also indicated he is hopeful the study will be expanded in 2015 to include guest surveys in order to better understand spending habits outside of the individual parks.

For a complete list of Alabama's 22 state parks and links to more information, click here.