2026 ORCBC Conference

 

Building Stronger Communities Through Outdoor Recreation

 
 

Photo: Tamarack Media/

Image credit: Qathet Regional Cycling Association

Why you should join us!

The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) is pleased to host the 2026 Conference: Building Stronger Communities Through Outdoor Recreation at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops from May 20–22, 2026.

This inaugural conference is expected to bring together 300+ recreation leaders, volunteers, First Nations, land managers, and government and industry representatives from across BC. It will provide a vital platform for collaboration on key issues such as access, stewardship, reconciliation, inclusion, and the economic value of recreation to communities, tourism, and rural development.

Attendees can look forward to:

  • 2.5 days of engaging programming, including keynote speakers, panel discussions, field trips, breakout sessions and a gala dinner

  • A mix of classroom sessions, outdoor learning, and community dialogue

  • A stellar lineup of keynote speakers representing recreation, government, Indigenous leadership, and industry

  • Opportunities to connect across sectors and regions to shape the future of outdoor recreation in BC

2026 marks ORCBC’s 50th anniversary. Since 1976, we have brought together outdoor recreation groups, land managers, and policy makers to protect access, support volunteers, and advance responsible recreation across British Columbia. This milestone conference is both a celebration of five decades of progress and a launchpad for the next generation of collaboration, stewardship, and inclusive access to the outdoors.

Registration and a call for session proposals will open in late summer/early fall 2025 - stay tuned via this page or the ORCBC newsletter.

 

Image credit: Northern BC Tourism & Derek Flynn

Sponsorship opportunities

  • Align your brand with values that resonate: sustainability, health, community resilience, equity, and connection to nature

  • Reach a highly engaged audience of leaders in outdoor recreation, tourism, conservation, and community development

  • Demonstrate your commitment to access, stewardship, and collaborative solutions

  • Boost your visibility through multi-platform promotion, on-site branding, and meaningful engagement opportunities