LINCOLN COUNTY – Last week, the Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce and Travel Wisconsin highlighted the economic impact of tourism in Lincoln County in 2025.
A release from the Chamber and Travel Wisconsin said tourism “remains one of the strongest drivers of economic activity in Lincoln County, bringing visitors, revenue and opportunities to communities throughout the region.”
“Newly released tourism impact data for 2025 demonstrates the important role visitors play in supporting local businesses, creating jobs and contributing to the overall quality of life enjoyed by residents,” the organizations stated. “Whether travelers are casting a line on area lakes, exploring miles of ATV and snowmobile trails, attending community events, shopping locally or enjoying a weekend getaway in the Northwoods, every visit contributes to the local economy.”
According to the latest tourism economic impact report, visitors generated an estimated $115 million in total economic impact for Lincoln County during 2025. Visitor spending reached $76 million, supporting local lodging establishments, restaurants, retailers, attractions, recreation providers and service businesses throughout the county.
Tourism's benefits extend far beyond the businesses that interact directly with visitors, according to the release.
“The industry supported approximately 674 jobs across Lincoln County and generated $20.2 million in labor income,” the release stated. “In addition, tourism activity produced $6.3 million in state and local tax revenue, helping support public services and infrastructure while reducing the tax burden on local residents.”
The Chamber and Travel Wisconsin said the positive local results “mirror another record-setting year for tourism across Wisconsin.”
Statewide, tourism generated a record $27 billion in economic impact during 2025, welcomed nearly 118 million visits and contributed more than $1.7 billion in state and local tax revenue, according to the organizations.
“For the Tomahawk area, these numbers reflect more than economic statistics,” the release stated. “They represent real opportunities for local businesses, employees and communities. Tourism dollars support family-owned restaurants, local retailers, lodging properties, guides, outfitters, event organizers and countless other businesses that help make the Northwoods a memorable destination.”
Communities such as Tomahawk and the surrounding towns “continue to attract visitors seeking authentic Northwoods experiences,” the release noted.
“From boating and fishing in the summer to fall color tours, hunting seasons, snowmobiling adventures and winter recreation, Tomahawk offers year-round attractions that keep visitors returning year after year,” the release stated.
The Chamber and Travel Wisconsin noted that tourism also plays a key role in community development, with increased visitation supporting investments in parks, trails, events, downtown districts and recreational amenities that benefit both visitors and residents.
“As communities continue to thrive and improve, tourism serves as an important economic development tool that strengthens the region's long-term vitality,” the organizations said.
As Lincoln County looks toward the future, continued collaboration between local businesses, municipalities, tourism organizations, and community partners will help ensure that the area remains a premier Northwoods destination for generations to come, according to the Chamber and Travel Wisconsin.
“Every visitor who chooses Tomahawk contributes to a stronger local economy – and every positive experience helps create another ambassador for the Northwoods,” the organizations said.
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