Every New Yorker Deserves Access to the Outdoors.
NYORC is New York’s statewide outdoor recreation coalition: more than 100 member organizations, agencies and advocates working for equitable outdoor recreation policy, funding and access in all nine regions of New York State. Membership is free.
Member organizations
100+
OUR STRATEGIC FOCUS
Advancing Equitable Outdoor Recreation Across New York
From the Adirondacks to the boroughs of NYC, NYORC unites diverse voices to break down barriers and build an outdoor recreation system that works for everyone.
Advocacy & Public Funding
Championing state policies and funding that prioritize underserved communities. We help members navigate grants like the EPF and LWCF while pushing for equity criteria in funding decisions.
Capacity Building & Partnerships
Strengthening local organizations through training, mentorship, and cross-sector partnerships in every DEC region. Building the leadership and infrastructure needed for lasting change.
Equity & Environmental Justice
Centering historically excluded communities in recreation planning and investment. Dismantling systemic barriers so every New Yorker can access, enjoy, and benefit from the outdoors.
What outdoor recreation equity means
Parks, trails and open spaces belong to every New Yorker, but access is not equal. NYORC formed in 2020 in response to racial and economic disparities in outdoor recreation. We push for state funding like the EPF to reach the communities that need it most, and we help local groups build the capacity to get people outside. See our work →
WHY NYORC?
A Systems-Change Coalition for Outdoor Recreation
No single organization can reshape outdoor recreation alone. NYORC brings together nonprofits, agencies, businesses, and community leaders to drive systemic change — translating state plans like SCORP and Open Spaces for All into on-the-ground action across every region.
Collective Voice
Amplifying 100+ organizations into one powerful advocacy force for equitable outdoor access.
Equity First
Centering BIPOC, low-income, and disability communities in every decision, program, and investment.
Policy Impact
Shaping state legislation, funding criteria, and agency priorities through coordinated advocacy campaigns.
Shared Resources
Connecting members with grants, training, toolkits, mentorship, and a statewide network of expertise.
MEMBER VOICES
What Our Coalition Members Are Saying
We can all make a difference. When we work together, we can have a greater impact!
“I love the opportunity to share the outdoors with families who have never hiked together.”
“We need to train the next generation of environmental leaders!”
GET INVOLVED
Join the Movement for Equitable Outdoor Recreation
Whether you’re a nonprofit, a government agency, a business, or an individual who believes in the power of the outdoors, there’s a place for you in NYORC. Membership is free.
Join Us
Shape statewide outdoor recreation policy and funding priorities
Access grants, training, and a statewide professional network
Participate in working groups on advocacy, equity, membership, and more
Stronger Together
Amplify your organization’s impact through collective action!
join us
Become a Member
UPCOMING EVENTS
Connect, Learn & Advocate with NYORC
Our Mission
Equitable Access to the Outdoors
NYORC serves as a resource to the diverse communities, businesses, user groups, and nonprofit organizations, a partner to agencies, and an advocate for the outdoors in New York State. We empower local communities with information and connections, partner with state agencies to inform policy, and advocate for initiatives that expand access to parks, trails, and natural areas for all New Yorkers.