OWAA Opens Early Bird Registration for 2023 Conference

The Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) is opening registration for the 2023 conference and discounted “early bird” pricing will be available through May 15. Regular pricing will start on May 16 and registration will remain open until the event.

During September 9-11 conference attendees will stay at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton hotel, acclaimed as an international benchmark in sustainable tourism development that sits on the beach in the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

OWAA media members and supporting brands will have an opportunity to network with other professionals, find opportunities to sell work, receive instruction on a variety of topics, create partnerships, and hone communications skills.

This year’s OWAA’s conference is supported by the Alabama Tourism Department and Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources. The annual event brings together outdoor media, including writers, photographers, bloggers, podcasters, videographers and more, from a broad spectrum of outdoor specialties to learn, connect and discover all the outdoor offerings of the local hosts.

“In-person events are as important as ever and we look forward to hosting all of our talented members and supporting groups this fall for what is sure to be an amazing opportunity to connect personally and professionally,” said Katie McKalip, President of the OWAA. “These in-person events are a fantastic resource for all of our supporters and we’re looking forward to getting everyone together at our world-class Gulf Shores destination.”

The event includes pre- and post-tours for media to get the latest story on (and shots of) outdoor adventures in Gulf Shores, be it paddling, hiking, fishing, hunting or other outdoor pursuits. Attendees will also enjoy networking events and instructional workshops focused on professional development and will tackle such issues as journaling, finding clients, how to pitch stories, filmmaking, social media, getting a book published, podcasting and more.

You do not need to be an OWAA member to attend, but you do need to be a professional outdoor storyteller (or brand interested in connecting with these media).

Event participation gives you access to:

  • All keynote and breakout sessions, including the ‘Meet the Editors’ panel
  • Three meals/day, including the honorary awards banquet
  • Two 3-hour ‘deep dive’ workshops to further your skillset
  • All breakout day activities (gear demos and more)
  • Hospitality events
  • Coffee bar each morning
  • Unique events like a fun run, photo scavenger hunt, and storytelling night

For more information, visit https://owaa.org