The 6th Annual Outdoor Economy Conference is set to take place from September 15–18, 2025, at Harrah’s Cherokee Conference Center in Cherokee, North Carolina. This premier event brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and community advocates to explore the interconnectedness of outdoor recreation, economic development, and environmental stewardship.

Under the theme “Investing in the Ecosystem,” the conference will delve into four core tracks: People, Communities, Businesses, and the Natural World. Each track will address critical topics such as community engagement, long-term planning, funding strategies, workforce development, and policy initiatives. Sessions will be woven throughout the conference to provide a holistic understanding of the outdoor economy's impact on our communities and natural resources.

Ticket Pricing and Early Bird Offer

Early bird registration is now open, offering discounted rates for a limited time:

• Full Conference Pass: $449 (Early Bird Tier 2, expires July 16, 2025)

• Single Day Pass: $229 (Early Bird Tier 2, expires July 16, 2025)

• Monday Reception Only: $89

• Add-On Workshop: IMBA Trail Planning & Development Workshop – $75

After July 16, 2025, prices will increase by $100. To register and secure early bird pricing, visit outdooreconomy.org/tickets.

About the Outdoor Economy Conference

The Outdoor Economy Conference connects, educates, and inspires leaders and doers working to grow the outdoor industry and craft an economy that’s intimately tied to the well-being of their places and communities. Outdoor CEOs, conservation leaders, federal agencies, local officials, state parks to local parks, economic developers to land managers… the Outdoor Economy Conference brings everyone to the table to focus on what matters. (outdooreconomy.org)

Venue and Lodging

The conference will be held at Harrah’s Cherokee Conference Center, located at 777 Casino Way, Cherokee, NC 28719. Attendees can book hotel rooms through TripZero for special attendee-only pricing and to offset travel carbon emissions. (outdooreconomy.org, outdooreconomy.org)

For more information including a detailed schedule, visit OutdoorEconomyConference.org.