Iowa has a new state government body dedicated to helping expand state tourism and recreation options, as Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order Monday establishing the Iowa Office of Outdoor Recreation.
Reynolds signed Executive Order 19 at a news conference held at Lake Ahquabi State Park near Indianola. The Office of Outdoor Recreation, created by the order, will be under the purview of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) as a part of its Iowa Tourism Office division.
According to the executive order, the new office was created to “promote and expand outdoor recreation opportunities to elevate Iowa’s image as a premier outdoor recreation and tourism destination, both regionally and nationally.” It will be in charge of both financing — through private funding and matching state funds — some of the projects related to outdoor recreation, as well as marketing the spaces and events in Iowa for outdoor recreation to both Iowa and national audiences.
Reynolds said she and her family often go to Iowa parks for activities ranging from exploring caves to fishing and camping — “regardless of the activity, just taking the time to really disconnect from the business of everyday life and reconnect with family, with friends, and with nature, outdoor recreation is good for everyone’s health and well-being,” she said.
Outdoor recreation also brings in both tourists — and residents — to Iowa, she said.
“This outdoor recreation industry is absolutely a force to be reckoned with, adding nearly $6 billion to our GDP every year while supporting nearly 50,000 jobs across all over 99 counties,” Reynolds said at the news conference. “It supports local businesses, attracts visitors, and improves quality of life for the people who call Iowa home. And it’s these amenities that make our community strong and more attractive places to work, live, and raise a family. And it’s for all of these reasons, and more that we’re here.”
In addition to the new office, the executive office also created a 10-person task force, which Reynolds said “will be comprised of stakeholders in the industry,” which will report in 120 days to advise the new office.
At the news conference, Kayla Lyon, director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, also announced that the Iowa Parks Passport was online for 2026 — a mobile app allowing Iowans to log visits to state parks and become eligible for prizes from camping discounts to tote bags, as well as the opportunity to win a three-night stay in a cabin at a state park.
“It’s become a beloved tradition for families looking to explore our beautiful state and spend quality time outside,” Lyon said. “So, please join us on the adventure.”
