Dedicated to expanding equitable access to the outdoors and improving recreational opportunities by creating public-private partnerships, The Great Outdoors Fund began with “a realization that the world’s public lands and water, along with recreational infrastructure, should be accessible to all,” and dedicated itself to closing the visible gap in access.
Established in 2017 as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Great Outdoors Fund is dedicated to facilitating access to outdoor recreation by finding, developing and leading public-private partnerships to enhance, protect and provide access to diverse outdoor spaces across North America.
The vision? “We aspire to be the premier organization in North America and foremost leader in curating long-term, sustainable funding and partnerships that enhance equitable access and outdoor recreational opportunities for all,” states the website.
The Great Outdoor Fund’s mission is to find resources and invest in recreation infrastructure, leveraging public-private partnerships for maximum impacts. Some of the organizations projects in 2025 include:
- Upgrading the historic Ayres Natural Bridge Park in Converse County, Wyo., with new playground equipment, an ADA-compliant walking path and improved playground features.
- Making improvements at Poudre Ponds in Greeley, Colo., with a new boat ramp, shade shelters, restrooms, and other site amenities.
- Construction of the Lobatos Bridge Outdoor Classroom and Recreation Enhancement Project in Colorado’s San Luis Valley.
- Improvements to Brantley Lake State Park in Carlsbad, N.M., with an ADA-compliant pathway and parking, as well as a new shaded picnic area.
- New signage, upgraded kiosks and easier fee collection at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
To learn more about The Great Outdoors Fund, visit thegreatoutdoorsfund.org. RM
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