The application deadline for OHI’s reimagined 2025 Awards of Excellence is this Friday,Sept. 12. This year marks a bold new chapter for the signature recognition program to better honor the ideas, innovations and individuals shaping the future of outdoor hospitality, according to a press release.
“OHI’s Awards of Excellence have evolved for 2025, with a bold new emphasis on innovation and industry progress,” stated the release. “As the world changes, it’s the innovation that drives excellence in our industry. The Awards of Excellence will focus on the best in our business — the boldest risk-takers, idea-makers and trailblazers who are rethinking how to deliver the magic of the outdoors.”
A full list of awards is available at OHI.org/Awards. All awards require a formal application, which has been redesigned and shortened based on feedback to make the process easier for busy campground owners to complete. Awards are open to current OHI members in good standing.
To help support the growing scope of the program, a modest application fee has been introduced for the Park Innovator of the Year, Supplier Innovator of the Year, and Plan-It Green – Environmental Innovator of the Year awards at $50 per entry, or $35 per entry for parks with fewer than 250 sites.
These fees directly support an expanded judging process, increased exposure for winners and meaningful on-site recognition during OHCE.
“Great ideas deserve a great spotlight, and this application fee helps us raise the bar,” stated the release.
“Innovation doesn’t always mean flashy; sometimes it’s a small idea that changes everything,” said David Basler, chief strategy officer at OHI. “These awards are about giving credit where it’s due and spotlighting the innovations that push the overall outdoor hospitality industry forward and create more meaningful connections and experiences.”
Applicants are encouraged to include photos/videos, testimonials, performance results and examples that bring their work to life. All entries must represent initiatives that were completed, or nearly completed, within the past three years.
Submit a nomination by Sept. 12 to be considered for the 2025 OHI Awards of Excellence. This year’s winners will be announced and recognized at OHCE2025 in Louisville, KY.
For complete details, eligibility criteria and category descriptions, visit ohi.org/awards.
