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 a vibrant, inclusive community that embraces the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the natural world. The organization creates safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals to explore the outdoors, foster connections, and promote wellness and self-discovery. Through their local chapter events, adventure trips, and national retreat they inspire a deeper appreciation for nature and build lasting friendships. We talked with Founder and Executive Director, Justin Yoder to learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors.
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 a movement of people seeking belonging, healing, and joy outside. Today, we’re a national nonprofit creating community through local meetups and events, adventure trips, our national outdoor retreat LGBTQ Outdoorfest, and partnerships that elevate queer visibility in outdoor spaces.
What makes LGBTQ Outdoors Unique?
There are many organizations doing great work providing people access to the outdoors. For us, access is the starting point. We’re focused on belonging.
For a lot of LGBTQ+ people, something as simple as a hike in their local park comes with a quiet calculation: Will I be safe there? Will the people there accept me? Do I belong in this space?
We’ve spent years learning what it takes to help make that calculation disappear. The answer isn’t a program or a policy. It’s community that’s intentional, specific, and built with a real understanding of what LGBTQ+ people are carrying with them.
At the heart of LGBTQ Outdoors we foster a community that has a longing to connect with each other and connect with nature.
What are some upcoming initiatives LGBTQ Outdoors is working on?
We’re in the last few months of planning for LGBTQ Outdoorfest 2026, which is our national annual outdoor retreat. It’s four days packed full of outdoor adventures, exciting workshops, inspirational speakers, and powerful community connection. Four unforgettable days, one incredible community.
Our Ambassador Program, volunteers that lead local community outdoor events, continues to grow with local chapters in over 30 states with over 40 leaders. Our goal is to have local chapters in all 50 states ensuring more LGBTQ+ folks have access to safe, affirming outdoor spaces close to home.
For those who love a challenge, our 100 Mile Club invites people to track their miles hiking, biking, running, or paddling, and earn exclusive challenge coins along the way. It’s a fun way to stay connected, motivated, and moving throughout the year.
How can the outdoor industry support LGBTQ Outdoors?
There are several ways any organization can support our mission. Together we can expand our reach through making connections and build relationships with companies that have a shared vision. Support can happen through grants, event sponsorships, inclusive marketing, and gear donations for underrepresented people. Our partners amplify our voices and advocate to make space for LGBTQ+ people. For individuals who want to support us on a monthly basis, join our Trailblazers Society. More information about partnerships is on our website.
If LGBTQ Outdoors was an ice cream flavor, which flavor would it be and why?
LGBTQ Outdoors’ flavor is Fresh Wild Berry Swirl. It’s sweet, bold, and unapologetically unique, just like our community. Grounded in nature with a hint of campfire smoke, full of unexpected joy, and always bringing people together. Yes, we made up that flavor, and we aren’t afraid to use our imagination to dream big!
