Travel Oregon Launches ‘Recreation Ready’ Program to Boost Community Development and Enhance Visitor Industry
Travel Oregon has officially announced the launch of its significant new initiative, the Recreation Ready program, set to run from 2025 through 2029. This program is designed to be a cornerstone for community development and a catalyst for enhancing Oregon’s thriving visitor industry by investing in and improving outdoor recreation experiences across the state.
Program Aims and Objectives
The Recreation Ready program seeks to strategically support Oregon communities by funding projects that develop and enhance outdoor recreation infrastructure. Its core mission is to attract overnight visitors, improve accessibility for all, foster enhanced community well-being, stimulate local economic opportunities, and promote the stewardship of Oregon’s natural environment. This initiative aligns with Travel Oregon’s broader vision to inspire travel that uplifts communities and builds a stronger, more resilient statewide tourism economy.
A Two-Phase Approach to Project Development
The program employs a structured, two-phase process to ensure robust project planning and execution. Phase 1 involves a comprehensive nine-month planning period where communities receive technical assistance to refine their project concepts. A key focus during this phase will be on accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that both the planning process and the resulting infrastructure are welcoming to people with disabilities. Projects that successfully complete Phase 1 will be eligible to advance to Phase 2.
In Phase 2, selected projects can apply for significant funding, with the potential to receive up to $100,000 over a 16-month period. This funding is intended to support the implementation of well-developed project plans, transforming concepts into tangible improvements that enrich the outdoor recreation landscape of oregon. The program prioritizes projects that involve the development or significant improvement of outdoor recreation infrastructure.
Application Timeline and Ineligible Projects
Communities interested in participating must first submit a Letter of Intent (LOI). The LOI submission period is set to open on October 1, 2025, and will close on October 30, 2025. Travel Oregon will post detailed program guidelines and application information on September 24, 2025. While the program strongly supports infrastructure development, it is important to note that events, certifications, and marketing campaigns are ineligible for funding under Recreation Ready.
Context within Oregon’s Tourism Landscape
The Recreation Ready program emerges at a time when Oregon’s outdoor recreation sector is a significant economic driver. In 2022, outdoor recreation supported $16 billion in spending and 192,000 jobs in Oregon. Visitor spending alone accounted for $3.4 billion, supporting 37,000 jobs. Travel Oregon’s efforts, including the new program, are part of a sustained strategy to grow this vital industry. Recent discussions by the Travel Oregon Tourism Commission on September 12, 2025, highlighted their ongoing commitment to industry development, including resources like the Travel Oregon 101 video and the positive trend of increased tourism jobs in 2024. The commission also reviewed their strategic progress and vision for the future.
The Recreation Ready initiative represents a strategic investment by Travel Oregon, aiming to ensure that the state’s natural assets continue to draw visitors and benefit local economies, fostering opportunities for residents and travelers alike to explore and enjoy the diverse beauty of the state. This is important news for communities looking to enhance their recreational offerings and stimulate economic growth through tourism.
