About Us

“Inclusivity in the outdoors isn’t just about access—it’s about belonging. When everyone feels safe to show up as their full self, nature becomes more than a place. It becomes home.”

Justin Yoder

Founder, LGBTQ Outdoors

Learn more

About LGBTQ Outdoors

45+

Ambassadors

150+

Events

Over 150 successful events

LGBTQ Outdoors is led by a beautiful community of leaders and volunteers.

23

23 States

Currently active in over 23 states, the organization fosters belonging, visibility and community

Mission

Vision

At the heart of our mission is connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to the outdoors and to one another. We strive to create a national network of inclusive outdoor spaces and community-based chapters that foster environments of safety, connection, and belonging. By promoting and advocating for queer inclusion in the outdoor industry, we aim to increase representation and support, strengthening connections within our community and fostering a love for the outdoors.

The Foundation

Our Goals

Inspire

Educate

Change

Foster

Showcase

Build

Share


Sustainability Policy

At LGBTQ Outdoors, we are committed to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship while connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to the outdoors. We recognize the importance of preserving our natural resources for future generations and believe that access to nature should be inclusive and equitable. This sustainability policy outlines our organization's principles, goals, and actions to ensure we operate in an environmentally responsible and socially conscious manner.

Environmental Stewardship

1.1. Conservation: We actively promote the conservation of natural resources, including land, water, and biodiversity, through our programs and activities. We encourage sustainable practices such as recycling, reducing waste, and minimizing our ecological footprint. 1.2. Preservation of Natural Areas: We advocate for the protection and preservation of natural areas, including parks, forests, and wilderness areas to ensure their availability for future generations. 1.3. Climate Action: We support efforts to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts. We strive to reduce our carbon emissions, promote renewable energy sources, and educate our community about the importance of climate action.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

2.1. Equality and Diversity: We commit to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals of all gender identities and races. We actively promote diversity and ensure all members of the LGBTQIA+ community have equal opportunities to participate in our outdoor programs. 2.2. Education and Outreach: We conduct educational programs and workshops to raise awareness about the benefits of outdoor recreation and the importance of environmental conservation within the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond. We actively engage with marginalized groups to increase their participation in outdoor activities.

Partnerships and Collaboration

3.1. Collaborative Approach: We seek partnerships and collaborations with other organizations, businesses, and government agencies that share our commitment to sustainability and connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to the outdoors. 3.2. Volunteer Engagement: We encourage our volunteers to support sustainability practices and participate in conservation efforts during our outdoor programs and events. 3.3. Sustainable Supply Chain: We prioritize working with suppliers and vendors who uphold sustainable practices and share our commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

We are committed to uphold the principles outlined in this sustainability policy and regularly review and update it to reflect advancements in sustainability practices and the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. By integrating environmental stewardship and inclusivity into our programs and operations, we aim to create a more sustainable future while fostering a sense of connection and belonging within the LGBTQIA+ community in the great outdoors.

Join a movement that makes inclusion visible.

Partnering with us aligns your brand with equity, adventure, and authentic connection in outdoor spaces.

Partner with us

Inclusion always

Inclusion Starts Here

Partnering with LGBTQ Outdoors is a powerful way to show your brand’s commitment to inclusion, representation, and community in the outdoor space. We connect the LGBTQIA+ community with outdoor opportunities through safe, affirming, and empowering experiences—creating meaningful engagement in an often-overlooked market.

Join us in building a more inclusive outdoors while connecting with a loyal, diverse, and growing community.

Interested? Contact Justin Bickley

partnerships@LGBTQOutdoors.com or fill out the form below. We’d love to collaborate.

Justin Bickley

Partnerships Coordinator

Our History

The Evolution of LGBTQ Outdoors

2019

The Beginning

In June, founder Justin Yoder launched an Instagram account called LGBT Outdoors with two key goals: 1. To challenge the stereotype that queer people aren’t interested in the outdoors. 2. To inspire the LGBTQIA+ community by spotlighting queer people who love the outdoors.

2020

Empowerment

In response to growing interest, we launched the Ambassador Program—a way for community members to get involved and build inclusive outdoor spaces in their own regions. We had no idea it would become the heartbeat of LGBTQ Outdoors, expanding our mission across the U.S. and Canada through grassroots leadership.

2021

Legitimacy

We officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and hosted our first LGBT Outdoorfest (now LGBTQ Outdoorfest). What began as a bold idea is now our flagship event: a 4-day queer summer camp for adults filled with workshops, outdoor adventures, and community connection.

2022

Recognition

We began partnerships with companies like Winnebago Industries and Patagonia. These collaborations not only validated the importance of our work but also helped amplify our mission on a national scale. That same year, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the U.S. Forest Service invited founder Justin Yoder to speak to their employees about our mission and the critical need for diversity, inclusion, and representation in outdoor spaces. These opportunities underscored the growing recognition of LGBTQ Outdoors as a leader in this movement. 

2023

Amplification

We launched the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast, extending our reach and impact through storytelling, education, and conversations that champion diversity, inclusion, and representation in outdoor spaces.

2024

Expansion

LGBTQ Outdoorfest welcomed its first international participant—marking a major milestone in our growing global reach.

2025

Evolution

We updated our name to LGBTQ Outdoors to better reflect our community and launched the 100 Mile Club, a program that encourages outdoor movement and connection throughout the year. We also partnered with Brew Dr. Kombucha, who featured our logo and story on hundreds of thousands of Love Wins bottles during Pride Month.

Our Creative Experts

Team

Compassionate

Dog Dad

Adventurer

Justin Yoder (He/Him) is the founder of LGBTQ Outdoors, a nonprofit connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to nature through inclusive events and programs. A longtime advocate for belonging and environmental stewardship, he’s passionate about creating safe, joyful outdoor spaces where everyone feels seen and celebrated.

Justin Yoder

Founder, Executive Director

He/Him

Certified Goofball

Tech Support

Seeks Understanding

Patrick Thompson (He/Him), LGBTQ Outdoors Board Alum and Creative Director, injects heart into our messaging and connection strategy. Passionate about welcoming queer people into traditionally non-queer spaces, he brings joy and humor to his work—disarming, inclusive, and always rooted in a playful, Peter Pan-like spirit.

Patrick Thompson

Creative Director

He/Him

Climb Higher

Chase Horizons

Stay Wild

Josh McNabb (He/Him) grew up in Northeast Texas, where time outdoors—especially fly fishing—quickly became a passion. Now living in Colorado, he spends as much time as possible casting lines in mountain streams. LGBTQ+ Outdoors has connected him to a supportive queer community that shares his love for the wild.

Josh McNabb

LGBTQ Outdoorfest Coordinator

He/Him

Nature Lover

Explorer

Proud Parent

Cherie Bélanger (she/her) calls New England home and thrives in the outdoors, from family hikes with her kids and girlfriend to leading activities for her local chapter. She’s driven by a passion to celebrate queer joy in wild places.

Cherie Bélanger

Ambassador Program Manager

She/Her

Authentic

Empowering

Wild-Hearted

Samantha “Sam” Troi (she/her) is the Ambassador Program Coordinator and Fort Collins Ambassador. Originally from South Florida, Sam is passionate about building inclusive spaces, leading hikes and yoga sessions, and exploring the beauty of the Rockies. When not on the trail, she’s probably cuddling or traveling with her adventure cat, Fred Harvey.

Sam Troi

Ambassador Program Coordinator

She/Her

Eternally Curious

Cat Cuddler

Cloud Appreciator

Krista (She/Her) criss-crossed the US looking for the perfect location to settle down and fill every weekend with an adventure. She finally ended up in New Hampshire where she attempts to do just that. She can be found making a day trip to the beach or an arboretum, wandering a small town in search of coffee and muffins, or climbing a mountain with the local LGBTQ Outdoors chapter.

Krista English

Ambassador Event Coordinator

She/Her

Thrill Seeker

Curious

Resilient

I grew up in a small mountain town in California and always found peace outdoors. Nature doesn’t judge—it welcomes. Hiking, camping, and exploring wild places help me feel grounded and proud of who I am.

Alex Silva

Ambassador Event Coordinator

He/Him

OUR BOARD

Compassionate

Dog Dad

Adventurer

Justin Yoder is the founder of LGBTQ Outdoors, a nonprofit connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to nature through inclusive events and programs. A longtime advocate for belonging and environmental stewardship, he’s passionate about creating safe, joyful outdoor spaces where everyone feels seen and celebrated.

Justin Yoder

Founder, Executive Director

He/Him

Community-Driven

Dog-Loving Trailblazer

Outdoor Enthusiast

Mallorie Hall is a dedicated animal advocate, small business owner, and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. Based in Dallas, she brings her love for nature, community, and inclusion to the LGBTQ Outdoors board with heart, humor, and purpose.

Mallorie Hall

Secretary

She/Her

Green Guru

Zen Master

Eco Enthusiast

Zach Detwiler-Caram

Treasurer

He/Him

Climb Higher

Chase Horizons

Stay Wild

Josh McNabb (He/Him) grew up in Northeast Texas, where time outdoors—especially fly fishing—quickly became a passion. Now living in Colorado, he spends as much time as possible casting lines in mountain streams. LGBTQ+ Outdoors has connected him to a supportive queer community that shares his love for the wild.

Josh McNabb

LGBTQ Outdoorfest Chair

He/Him

Style Savant

Whimsy Whiz

Color Connoisseur

Roscoe Compton-Kelly (He/Him) brings 24+ years of corporate and nonprofit experience, specializing in business development, operations, and leadership. He helps leaders strengthen their skills, grow their organizations, and drive impact through expert guidance in strategy, revenue, and team management.

Roscoe Compton-Kelly

Member

He/Him

Joyful

Nature Lover

Authentic

Bailey Buckles is a trans outdoor adventurer, storyteller, and content creator who celebrates queer joy and connection in the outdoors. Through her creative work, she uplifts LGBTQ+ voices, builds community, and encourages others to embrace adventure, healing, and self-discovery in nature. She believes everyone deserves belonging outside.

Bailey Buckles

Member

She/They