The 2025 National Outdoor Conference (NOC), hosted at the legendary Philmont Scout Ranch, is the premier event for outdoor program leaders, council professionals, and volunteers dedicated to delivering exceptional outdoor experiences in Scouting. This year’s conference will bring together experts from across the country to share innovative ideas, best practices, and practical solutions that support outdoor programs at all levels. If you have valuable insights, creative strategies, or success stories to help strengthen Scouting’s outdoor adventures, you’re invited to submit a Request for Proposal (RFP) to present a session at the conference. 

Submitting an RFP is a simple process designed to gather engaging and educational content for a wide range of attendees. Prospective presenters should prepare a proposal that includes a session title, description, learning objectives, target audience, and presenter qualifications. Your class must fall under one of the following categories: 

Leading Youth Safety Forward 
This track equips camp leaders with the knowledge and tools to make safety a top priority in all aspects of camp operations. Sessions will focus on best practices for safeguarding youth, enhancing staff training, and fostering a culture of physical, emotional, and mental safety at camp. 

Change and Improve the Way We Work Together 
Focusing on collaboration, this track offers strategies to improving collaboration across all levels of the organization, including between local councils and camp operations. 

Make Our Programs Highly Relevant to Today’s Youth 
This track will explore ways to refresh camp programs to better align with the interests, values, and expectations of today’s youth. Sessions will provide actionable ideas for incorporating modern technology, innovative activities, and youth-driven programming into the outdoor experience. 

Broaden Our Appeal and Revitalize Our Bran 
This track helps camp leaders enhance outreach efforts and boost the Scouting America camping and outdoor image within their communities, both internal and external. Participants will learn strategies for attracting a more diverse group of campers, engaging new audiences, and positioning their camp as a must-attend experience for youth. 

Strengthen Our Financial Position 
Designed for council and camp leadership looking to build financial sustainability, this track covers topics like increasing camp attendance, improving fundraising efforts, and maximizing resource efficiency. Leaders will leave with practical tools to secure their camp’s financial future. 

RFPs can be submitted online through the National Outdoor Conference website, with the submission deadline set for April 4th, 2025. Proposals will be reviewed by a selection committee, and presenters will be notified of their status. 

This is a unique opportunity to share your knowledge and make a positive impact on outdoor programs nationwide, all while connecting with fellow Scouting leaders in the breathtaking setting of Philmont. By presenting at NOC, you can help shape the future of outdoor adventure in Scouting and provide fellow leaders with tools and ideas to take home to their councils. Start preparing your RFP today, and we look forward to seeing you at the conference! 

For Scouting professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional outdoor programs, there’s no better opportunity to grow than the 2025 National Outdoor Conference (NOC). More than just an event, NOC is a hub of inspiration, education, and connection—all set against the majestic backdrop of Philmont Scout Ranch. Here’s why every professional should make attending a priority:

Elevate Your Professional Development

In today’s fast-paced environment, learning is essential—and the National Outdoor Conference is built for it. With a wide array of classes, panels, and hands-on training opportunities, NOC empowers you to sharpen your skills in areas like: 

• Risk management and safety 

• Program design and innovation 

• Leadership and strategic planning 

• Sustainability in outdoor programs 

Best of all, many of the sessions count toward your required Continuing Education Program (CEP) hours as outlined by Scouting America’s policy on professional development. Whether you’re attending courses on high-adventure programming or enhancing youth leadership skills, you can earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs) while gaining knowledge you can immediately apply back home​.

Expand Your Network

The NOC is one of the largest gatherings of outdoor program experts, Scouting professionals, and volunteers from across the country. Over the course of the conference, you’ll have countless opportunities to: 

• Swap ideas with your peers 

• Share success stories and challenges 

• Build a network of colleagues who can become trusted resources long after the conference ends 

There’s nothing quite like learning from others who face the same opportunities and obstacles you do. These connections help you stay inspired and informed all year long.

Strengthen Relationships with Volunteers

One of the unique aspects of NOC is that it brings together both professionals and volunteers who share a passion for delivering high-quality outdoor programs. Attending with your local volunteers can: 

• Deepen mutual understanding of goals and challenges 

• Enhance teamwork back in your council 

• Build trust and collaboration through shared experiences 

A shared learning environment strengthens the partnership between staff and volunteers, which is essential for Scouting’s success.

Check Off Continuing Education Goals

Scouting America’s Continuing Education Program requires commissioned professionals to complete 20 PDH units each year​. NOC is a fantastic way to make meaningful progress toward this goal in just a few days, all while focusing on topics directly tied to outdoor program excellence. Sessions align with critical areas like: 

• Leadership and strategic thinking 

• Problem-solving and adaptability 

• Technology use and innovation 

• Diversity and inclusion in outdoor programming 

Plus, the knowledge you gain isn’t just about checking a box — it’s about enhancing your ability to serve youth through exceptional outdoor experiences.

Have Fun!

Let’s not forget: Scouting is FUN, and so is NOC! Beyond the sessions and seminars, you can expect: 

• Engaging evening events 

• Outdoor activities and demonstrations 

• Informal meetups and social gatherings 

NOC is as much about recharging your passion for the movement as it is about professional growth. You’ll return home energized, inspired, and ready to take your programs to the next level. 

Make 2025 Your Year to Attend 

The 2025 National Outdoor Conference is more than a conference — it’s an investment in your professional journey, your council’s success, and the future of Scouting’s outdoor adventures. 

To learn more and register, visit: https://www.scouting.org/outdoor-programs/noc/.