STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES THROUGH OUTDOOR RECREATION

Sustainable outdoor recreation strengthens rural communities by creating economic opportunity and improving quality of life. The Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia (ORCA) works with partners across Appalachian Ohio to advance outdoor recreation through regional collaboration, strategic investment, and infrastructure development. By aligning communities around a shared vision for outdoor recreation, ORCA is helping build a stronger, more connected future for Appalachian Ohio.

Outdoor Recreation in Action

From the Baileys Trail System to Ohio’s Rolling Hills, and hosting Ohio's first Outdoor Recreation Economy Conference, ORCA is helping position Appalachian Ohio as a destination for outdoor recreation and
economic growth.

Bringing Leaders Together

Convened 150+ leaders
for Ohio’s first Outdoor Recreation Economy Conference.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

Building World
Class Systems

Leading development of the Baileys Trail System in partnership with the Wayne National Forest.

EXPLORE THE TRAILS

Advancing Regional Collaboration

Working across 18 counties to build a shared regional identity through Ohio's Rolling Hills.

DISCOVER THE REGION

How We Work

ORCA advances outdoor recreation through regional collaboration, strategic planning, trail development, and partnership-building across Appalachian Ohio.

ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

We leverage outdoor recreation to support growth across the region through investment, tourism, and entrepreneurship.

Support small business and entrepreneurship
Increase regional tourism and visitation
Create workforce and career pathways
Strengthen local economies through recreation investment

REGIONAL COLLABORATION

ORCA brings together partners across Appalachian Ohio to
align strategy, investment, and impact.

18 counties collaborating on regional initiatives
Partnerships with state, federal, and nonprofit organizations
Coordinated approach to outdoor recreation development
Advancing a shared regional identity through Ohio’s Rolling Hills

TRAILS & PLANNING

We develop world-class trail systems and lead planning efforts that support long-term community impact.

Build and manage the Baileys Trail System
Establish the region’s first large-scale recreation development plan
Develop outdoor recreation infrastructure
Support community-driven project planning

CONVENING & PARTNERSHIP

ORCA connects leaders, communities, and organizations to share ideas, build momentum, and expand impact.

Host regional and statewide convenings
Bring together cross-sector partners
Share best practices and resources
Strengthen collaboration across the region