Mission & Vision
Protecting & Supporting Outfitters
The Voice of America's Outfitters
America Outdoors is the national trade association for the outfitting and guided outdoor recreation industry. Since 1982, our mission has been to grow, protect, and support outfitting businesses by providing strong federal advocacy, meaningful business resources, and a connected professional community. Our members—professional outfitters ranging from rafting companies and dude ranches to climbing guides, fishing lodges, aerial adventure parks, and tour operators—introduce millions of people to the outdoors each year. By supporting these businesses, we help ensure that outdoor experiences remain safe, accessible, and economically viable across the country.
Our vision is a future where guided outdoor experiences are widely valued as an essential part of the American landscape—supporting rural economies, connecting people to public lands and waterways, and inspiring lifelong stewardship of wild places. We believe outfitters play a critical role in helping people experience the outdoors responsibly, and we work to ensure they have the policies, resources, and industry support needed to succeed in an evolving recreation landscape.
The work of America Outdoors is guided by a core set of values: stewardship of public lands and waterways, collaboration across the outdoor industry, and a commitment to professionalism, safety, and integrity in outfitted experiences. We advocate for a fair and reasonable regulatory environment and policies that enhance our members’ ability to operate successfully, ensuring outfitters can focus on delivering exceptional outdoor experiences while sustaining their businesses.
When you support America Outdoors, you strengthen the entire outfitting community. From river guides and packers to ranch operators and expedition leaders, our members share a common purpose: helping people experience the outdoors while protecting the places that make those experiences possible. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient outdoor recreation industry for the future.
Our Key Mission Goals
- Advocacy for Outfitters
- Stewardship of Public Lands and Waters
- Community and Industry Collaboration
- Professionalism, Safety, and Integrity
- Education and Industry Advancement
Why Choose to Support America Outdoors?
A Strong Voice in Washington, D.C
America Outdoors represents the outfitting industry on the issues that matter most, advocating for fair and practical policies related to public land access, permitting, labor, insurance, and outdoor recreation regulation.
Resources That Support Your Business
Members gain access to industry-specific guidance, training, and tools that help navigate risk management, compliance, staffing, operations, and the evolving regulatory landscape.
A Community of Industry Leaders
Connect with fellow outfitters and outdoor professionals through peer networks, collaborative learning opportunities, and the annual America Outdoors Conference, where the industry gathers to share ideas and strengthen relationships.
Timely Industry Intelligence
Stay informed with real-time updates on legislation, agency actions, permitting changes, and best practices that directly impact outfitting businesses.
Built by Outfitters, for Outfitters
America Outdoors is led by a Board of Directors made up of working outfitters, ensuring that the organization’s priorities, advocacy, and resources reflect the real-world needs of the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is America Outdoors?
America Outdoors is the national trade association for the outfitting and guided outdoor recreation industry. Founded in 1982, we serve as the industry’s primary advocate at the federal level while providing the policy frameworks and coordination needed to support state and regional initiatives on the ground.
Who can become a member of America Outdoors?
Membership is open to professional outfitters, outdoor recreation businesses, nonprofit operators, and industry partners who support the guided outdoor experience sector. We also welcome sponsors and affiliate organizations that serve or collaborate with outfitters.
What does America Outdoors do for the outfitting industry?
America Outdoors leads federal advocacy on issues like permitting and public land access, while providing the policy frameworks and coordination needed to support state and regional partners on the ground. We bridge the gap between national legislation and local operational realities, while providing the business resources, training, and networks outfitters need to strengthen their operations.
How does America Outdoors advocate for members?
We operate at the intersection of policy and practice. Our team works directly with Congress, federal agencies, and industry partners to ensure the outfitting industry is represented in every major policy decision. Simultaneously, we coordinate industry-wide advocacy, organize direct member engagement with lawmakers, and advance legislation that supports outdoor recreation businesses. By translating complex regulations into actionable intelligence, we ensure the practical, operational realities of the outfitter are considered before policy is finalized.
What benefits do members receive?
Members gain access to advocacy updates, industry resources, peer networking opportunities, and educational programming designed specifically for outfitting businesses. Membership provides tangible business advantages, including specialized risk management resources and the AO-endorsed insurance program through CBIZ.
What is the America Outdoors Conference & Outfitter Expo?
The America Outdoors Conference & Outfitter Expo is the industry’s annual gathering of outfitters, outdoor recreation professionals, and partners. The event features educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall where members can connect with companies offering products and services tailored to the outfitting industry.
How can I support the work of America Outdoors?
The most effective way to strengthen the industry is through active membership. A unified voice is our most powerful lever when negotiating with land management agencies or advocating for legislative reform. You can support America Outdoors by becoming a member, sponsoring programs and events, and participating in advocacy efforts that strengthen the outfitting industry. Your involvement ensures outfitters have a strong voice and the resources they need to succeed.
Does America Outdoors replace my state or regional outfitter association?
No, we complement them. While state associations focus overwhelmingly on local permitting and state-level legislative issues, America Outdoors handles the federal landscape and provides the national policy framework that state organizations use to defend outfitter interests at the state and regional level.
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Explore Memberships
Membership connects you to national advocacy, practical tools, and a stronger voice for your business.
- Federal advocacy & permitting wins
- Toolkits, templates, and benchmarks
- Insurance partner discounts
- Member-only conference rates
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DEC 8-11, 2026 • Oklahoma City, OK
Conference & Expo
Where outfitters, guides, and industry leaders come together to learn, connect, and shape the future of the industry.