California Outdoor Economy Summit

The Outdoor Economy Summit is a new, place-based convening focused on strengthening outdoor recreation economies in California, with a particular emphasis on rural communities.

Hosted by Cal Poly Humboldt, Redwood Region RISE, and Humboldt County’s Economic Development Division in collaboration with regional partners, the summit brings together practitioners, policymakers, business leaders, educators, and community partners who recognize outdoor recreation not simply as a lifestyle or amenity, but as a serious and growing economic driver. Over three days, participants will explore how outdoor recreation intersects with workforce development, business growth, land stewardship, tribal lands and projects, investment, infrastructure, and long-term community resilience.

California stands at a pivotal moment. As the outdoor economy expands nationwide, rural regions across the state face both significant challenges and unprecedented opportunities. With intentional investment, coordinated policy, and strategic collaboration, outdoor recreation can support economic diversification, strengthen workforce pathways, and build resilient regional economies.

At the same time, California is home to tens of millions of acres of public lands — from national forests and parks to state lands, coastal areas, and tribal territories. These landscapes are foundational to the state’s outdoor economy and its identity. Safeguarding them requires thoughtful management, cross-sector collaboration, and a shared commitment to stewardship that balances access, conservation, and long-term sustainability.

This inaugural summit is designed to meet that moment—practical, collaborative, and relationship-driven, grounded in real projects, real challenges, and real opportunities, and focused on shaping an outdoor economy that works for communities while protecting the lands and waters that sustain it.

Location

Eureka Adorni Community Center

1011 Waterfront Drive
Eureka, California 95501

Trail Competencies

Relevant Trail Types

General. All trail types are relevant.