In May 2026, Washington, D.C., will host a pivotal gathering aimed at integrating outdoor recreation into America’s health and wellness strategy. The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), a leading coalition in the outdoor industry, is organizing the inaugural National Executive Forum on Health and Outdoor Recreation. Scheduled for May 6-7, 2026, this exclusive event will convene top executives from the outdoor recreation and healthcare sectors, along with policymakers, to forge a unified vision for leveraging outdoor activities to address the nation’s pressing health challenges. (recreationroundtable.org)
Addressing America’s Health Challenges
The forum’s timing is critical, as the United States grapples with escalating health issues, including rising rates of chronic diseases and mental health concerns. Research consistently demonstrates that engaging in outdoor activities can mitigate these problems by promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. By integrating outdoor recreation into public health strategies, the forum aims to provide scalable solutions to these challenges. (recreationroundtable.org)
A Unified Approach
Jessica Turner, President of ORR, emphasized the forum’s collaborative approach:
“We know that outdoor recreation strengthens not only our economy, but our minds, bodies, and communities. Now, with health crises like obesity, heart disease, loneliness, mental health, and screen-induced anxiety at the forefront of national concern, it is time to elevate outdoor recreation as part of the solution.” (recreationroundtable.org)
The event will focus on three key pillars:
- Infrastructure and Investment: Enhancing facilities and resources to support outdoor activities.
- Health Systems and Institutions: Integrating outdoor recreation into healthcare frameworks.
- Culture and Messengers: Promoting the benefits of outdoor engagement through effective communication.
By addressing these areas, the forum seeks to establish outdoor recreation as a cornerstone of public health policy. (recreationroundtable.org)
Looking Ahead
The National Executive Forum represents a significant step toward recognizing and harnessing the health benefits of outdoor recreation. By uniting industry leaders, health experts, and policymakers, the event aims to create actionable strategies that integrate outdoor activities into the nation’s health and wellness initiatives. This collaborative effort underscores the growing recognition of outdoor recreation as a vital component of public health and economic resilience.