WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. -- With a dark and grim outlook lingering for the national economy, there's at least one bright spot in the local economic forecast.

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It's happening in the Wisconsin Dells area. In a time when people are staying home and spending less, the Dells resorts and attractions seem to be thriving -- even in the off-peak season.

The news suggests the Dells might be recession-proof, but why? For some ideas, keep reading.

Even on a Tuesday afternoon in March, people are still swimming, playing and spending money in the Dells. In fact, they're spending, playing, and swimming like never before, according to some Dells businesses.

"January and February were two of the best months that we've ever had," said Joe Eck, of the Wilderness Resort.

Officials at the Kalahari also said they haven't felt the downturn that many other companies have felt. Even the local shopping sector is doing well.

"Our sales and traffic are up over last year," said Heather Sweet, of Tanger Outlet. "So we're quite enthused about that."

In a time when everyone is cutting back, how can this be? How is a tourist destination, which relies on people spending money, doing so well? The businesses suspect they're seeing increased patronage from those staying in their home state instead.

"Maybe you used to fly somewhere for spring break," Eck said. "Well, now you're going to drive and the Dells is a natural destination to drive to."

In the area, there are so many different options whatever the budget. At the area's big resorts, like the Wilderness, Kalahari and Chula Vista, they appear to be doing the best. Chula Vista officials said that it's the fact that they're a one-stop, value-added destination -- along with other resorts -- which makes the area so attractive.

Meanwhile, the large resorts just keep growing. Three months ago, the Kalahari opened up its own indoor theme park. It's a destination that even among those who are cutting back find very attractive.

"Those very families who might have been going to Orlando for the Disney experience or beyond -- they're not doing that anymore," said Daylene Stroebe of the Kalahari. "They're being a little more sensitive to the pocketbook and they're taking the drive-to destination a little more seriously."

Eck said that he thinks visitors also want to save on their trips.

"You can find great deals," Eck said. "And I think that's what helps make people come here -- even during a time when the news isn't that great."

In addition, most of the large resorts are also hiring. They said that they just can't find enough people to work to keep up with the demand. This is even more proof that the Dells seems to be beating this recession.