A National Park Service report released April 23 shows that the nearly 200,000 visitors to Pinnacles National Park in 2014 spent more than $11 million during their visits to the park about 45 minutes south of Hollister and that the park contributed more than $13 million to state and local economies when the 151 jobs at the tourist destination are factored in. The more than 37 million visitors to all California national parks spent $1.65 billion in the state last year. That spending resulted in 24,185 jobs and had a cumulative benefit to the state economy of $2.37 billion, according to the park service.

"The national parks of California attract visitors from across the country and around the world," said Pacific West Regional Director Chris Lehnertz. "Whether they are out for an afternoon, a school trip, or a month-long vacation, visitors come for a great experience, and end up spending some money along the way. This new report shows that national park tourism is a significant driver in the national economy — returning $10 for every $1 invested in the National Park Service — and a big factor in the state's economy as well a result we can all support."

The report said that Pinnacles, one of more than two dozen national parks in California, accounted for approximately $5.5 million in labor income and another $8.3 million in value-added dollars. According to the report, most park visitor spending was for lodging (30.6 percent), followed by food and beverages (20.3 percent), gas and oil (11.9 percent), admissions and fees (10.2 percent) and souvenirs (9.9 percent).

To download the report, which includes visitor spending by park and by state, click here.