Around 250 recreation planners, managers, researchers, academics, students, policymakers, consultants, and senior industry executives are headed to Rapid City, South Dakota, to share knowledge and insight and learn about tools that will help them enhance the work they do in the field of outdoor recreation.

Organization: Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals

Conference: 2019 National Outdoor Recreation Conference

Venue: Holiday Inn Rushmore Plaza

City: Rapid City, South Dakota

Following training sessions Monday morning, 2019 NORC begins that afternoon with an opening plenary featuring Dustin Martin. The executive director of Wings of America will discuss the group’s work in developing youth running initiatives in Native American communities. Also on the agenda:

Be prepared. To get participants, presenters, and exhibitors ready for the conference, SORP offers web pages dedicated to each of these audiences to give them the inside scoop. Helpful tips on the Participant 101 page include advice to pack a water bottle and directions on how to download the conference app.

Go explore. Wednesday afternoon’s Field Workshops give attendees the chance to visit several of the outdoor recreation gems in and around Rapid City. Options include rock climbing in the Black Hills, a trip to Badlands National Park, or a bike ride on the Mickelson Trail.

Celebrate future leaders. SORP is committed to fostering the next generation of outdoor recreation professionals. Ten scholarships, which include complimentary registration and a travel stipend, are given each year to students and new professionals. Recipients are also provided with mentoring during the conference.

For other conference details, head to Facebook or Instagram.

(gradyreese/E+/Getty Images Plus)