Nonprofit Spotlight: LGBTQ Outdoors
During the month of June Outdoor Prolink is proud to have LGBTQ Outdoors as our featured nonprofit during checkout. Every year, Outdoor Prolink partners with nonprofits to give back to organizations we align with. To honor these amazing nonprofits, we’re spotlighting each one and sharing why you should care about their missions too.
LGBTQ Outdoors is more than an organization; it’s a vibrant, inclusive community that embraces the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the natural world. LGBTQ Outdoors creates safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals to explore the outdoors, foster connections, and promote wellness and self-discovery. Through their events and activities, they inspire a deeper appreciation for nature and build lasting friendships.
The Story Behind LGBTQ Outdoors
LGBTQ Outdoors started as a simple Instagram account in 2019 to share stories of queer folks connecting with nature. It quickly grew into something bigger—a movement of people seeking belonging, healing, and joy outside. Today, we’re a national nonprofit creating community through local meetups, national events like LGBTQ Outdoorfest, Adventure Trips and partnerships that elevate queer visibility in outdoor spaces.
What makes LGBTQ Outdoors Unique?
We’re not just about getting outside—we’re about creating belonging outside. Our work is grounded in the belief that the outdoors should be a safe and welcoming place for everyone. What sets us apart is our grassroots, community-driven model and the genuine connection we foster across identities, geographies, and skill levels.
What are some upcoming initiatives LGBTQ Outdoors is working on?
We’re deep into planning LGBTQ Outdoorfest 2025, which will be our biggest event yet! It’s a 4-day gathering full of workshops, outdoor activities, and powerful community connection—we even have folks traveling internationally to be a part of it.
We’re also growing our Ambassador Program with a goal to have local chapters in all 50 states by the end of 2025, ensuring more LGBTQ+ folks have access to safe, affirming outdoor spaces close to home.
And for those who love a good challenge, our 100 Mile Club invites people to track their miles—hiking, biking, paddling, however they move—and earn exclusive challenge coins along the way. It’s a fun way to stay connected, motivated, and moving all year long!
How can the outdoor industry support LGBTQ Outdoors?
Partner with us! Support looks like event sponsorships, grants, inclusive marketing, and gear donations for underrepresented folks. And most importantly, amplify our voices and make space for LGBTQ+ people in your decision-making rooms. For those that really want to give to our cause, consider joining our Trailblazers Society which you can learn all about on our website!
If LGBTQ Outdoors was an ice cream flavor, which flavor would it be and why?
We’d be wild berry swirl with a hint of campfire smoke—grounded in nature, full of unexpected joy, and always bringing people together. It’s sweet, bold, and unapologetically unique—just like our community. And yes, we made that flavor up, but we aren’t afraid to use our imagination and dream big!
