About
The National Outdoor Recreation Conference, held annually by the Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals (SORP), showcases innovative and creative approaches to nature-based outdoor recreation research, planning, and management.
Since 1983, SORP has been serving the outdoor recreation profession. It is the nation’s leading association of outdoor recreation and related professionals who strive to protect our natural and cultural resources while providing sustainable recreation access.
The National Outdoor Recreation Conference brings together recreation resource planners, land managers, organizational partners, researchers, consultants, innovators and leaders in outdoor recreation from across the the U.S. and North America. Average conference attendance is ~400, including over 50 presenters. In order to optimize networking opportunities as well as prioritize health and safety of attendees within the conference venue, we plan to cap attendance at 500.
Accessibility
The Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals' goal is to make the conference as welcoming and accessible, as feasible, for all participants. For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations please contact Rachel Franchina, rachel.franchina@recpro.org. For more information about accessibility at the conference venue, Marriott Knoxville Downtown, visit this page.
COVID-19 Protocols
Safety and health are our utmost priority. We are closely monitoring the CDC's guidance. Full conference protocols can be found at: https://www.recpro.org/covid-protocols
Awards
Award recipients will be announced during the conference and honored at an Awards Lunch on Tuesday, September 13.
The Project Excellence Award is presented annually at NORC to exemplary outdoor recreation projects. The award is presented to the collaborating agencies and organizations key to the success of the planning effort. Selection criteria will include (a) unique or special circumstances, (b) problem-solving, (c) level of innovation and creativity, (e) impact or effect of project, and (f) collaborative team effort.
Past award recipients
The Individual Service Award is presented annually at NORC to up to three recipients who have made significant and lasting contributions to the outdoor recreation profession. The award may recognize one specific contribution or a series of contributions over one’s career.
Past award recipients