11 outdoor business ideas that are profitable (2025)

9 profitable outdoor business ideas you can start today

Here are nine creative outdoor ideas to help you start your entrepreneurial journey.

Outdoor equipment rentals

An outdoor equipment rental business offers customers access to specialty gear for hiking, camping, watersports, and other recreational activities without owning the often costly items. Patrons can conveniently rent equipment by the day or week tailored for their selected adventures instead of over-purchasing niche inventory for a single-use occasion.

For operators, renting high-quality gear allows profitably serving fluctuating seasonal interest across multiple outdoor customer demographics from families to extreme athlete niches without acquiring exhaustive permanent inventories. Outdoor lovers otherwise priced out of owning multiple bicycles, kayaks, ski packages and such find affordable doors to exploring nature more accessible through equipment rentals.

How much you can make: $50K – $500K annually
How much does it cost to start: $50K – $200K
How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Coffee-to-go

Coffee-to-go businesses are easy to set up. You don’t need a lot of space, and you can open one up anywhere there is a traffic source. Coffee-to-go businesses are also very portable. Moreover, you have huge freedom to choose the location of your business, and at the same time, it is accessible on the go for all your potential customers.  

Coffee-to-go businesses are very lucrative. There is a growing trend of people drinking more coffee on the go, which is a market ripe for exploitation. Most people are also open to trying and tasting all kinds of coffees, which means that you can be inventive when designing your business and stand out from the competition.

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $10K – $50K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Dog walking

One of the most popular and profitable outdoor businesses is dog walking. Dog walking is one of the fastest-growing businesses in the United States. Dog walking can be a great business idea for people who already love dogs and want to make extra money doing something they love. It’s also a great business idea for people with a lot of space to spare. You can set up your business as a full-time or part-time operation. 

How much you can make: $20K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Drone operator

Drone operator as an outdoor business idea is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and enjoys flying drones. With this business, you can provide aerial photography and videography services to businesses and individuals worldwide. You can also offer drone training and maintenance services to people who want to learn how to fly drones safely and efficiently.

This is a very lucrative business as you can easily make a great living by providing drone services to others. With the popularity of drones growing every day, this industry will continue growing in popularity. So if you are interested in starting an outdoor business that involves flying drones, this business idea is worth considering. If you’re ready to take your drone operator business to the next level, many helpful resources are available online. Consider subscribing to industry magazines or watching instructional videos on YouTube. 

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $10K – $50K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Hiking coach

Hiking coach as an outdoor business idea is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to make some money while doing it. It offers guided hikes, backpacking trips, and other outdoor activities in beautiful locations all over the country. Hiking coaches are knowledgeable and experienced guides who will all travelers maximize their hiking experience.

How much you can make: $20K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Tour guide

Being a tour guide as an outdoor business idea could involve taking visitors on walking or biking tours of local landmarks and attractions. Alternatively, a tour guide could lead group hikes, and nature walks around scenic locations.  

A tour guide outdoor business idea would require a good knowledge of local geography and history regardless of the specific tours offered. In addition, this business would need to engage guests in interesting conversations and provide them with useful information about the area.

How much you can make: $20K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Outdoor cleaning services

Once you have a solid foundation set up, it’s time to start marketing your business. Building a strong social media presence is key, as is promoting your services through word-of-mouth marketing. With a well-rounded strategy, nothing stops you from becoming an outdoor cleaning superstar!

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $10K – $50K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Mobile car wash

A mobile car wash is a business idea perfect for those who want to start their own business but don’t have the time or the space to set up a traditional car wash. With a mobile car wash, customers can enjoy a convenient and affordable car wash experience without having to leave their homes or worry about traffic congestion.

The mobile car wash business model is simple and easy to set up. All you need is a truck or van with a washing machine, and customers can choose from various car wash services, including full car washes, wheel care, and detailing. You can also offer seasonal specials and promotions, attracting new customers and keeping them coming back for more. With convenient hours that can be adjusted to fit your schedule, this is the perfect option for anyone looking for an easy way to start their own business.

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $10K – $50K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Ice cream shop

Ice cream is a popular choice for an outdoor business and a delicious treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Selling scoops and cones from a cart or stand, you can set up in a busy area near a park, playground, or other popular tourist spots. Make sure to prepare treats with premium ingredients and fresh fruit to give your customers the best possible experience.

Offering different flavours and combinations, you can cater to everyone’s taste. If you have a special recipe or secret ingredient, share it with your customers. Not only are ice cream treats delicious, but they’re also a fun way to spend a summer day. Get started on your ice cream stand business today and enjoy the sweet smell of success in the air!

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $10K – $50K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Organic farming

One of the most popular outdoor business ideas is organic farming. This type of farming is growing crops without using harmful pesticides or fertilizers. Instead, organic farmers use natural methods to improve soil fertility. Organic farming is a great way to make a profit. It is one of the most profitable businesses out there. According to The Huffington Post, an organic farm can generate up to three times as much revenue as a conventional farm.

How much you can make: $50K – $500K annually
How much does it cost to start: $50K – $200K
How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Fishing guide 

A fishing guide provides the boat, gear, and expertise to lead clients to the best fishing locales in the area. They assist with catching fish, provide instructions in equipment use and fishing techniques, and offer navigation services to hot spots where fish are biting. To start a guide business, you’ll need boating and fishing knowledge, a licensed boat, tackle, and a passion for helping clients catch trophy fish.

How much you can make: $20K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Conclusion