Partnership Opportunities
River City Outdoors is building a network of partners to address barriers to safe, equitable outdoor access in St. Louis. As the local Thrive Outside network lead, we use the collective impact model to unite people – in a structured way – and drive social change. This approach allows us to create more impactful programs, expand our capacity and reach, and provide diverse and inclusive outdoor opportunities.

Our Programs
Educational Programming
River City Outdoors partners with educational and community organizations to offer activities for all skill levels, ensuring everyone can experience the transformative power of the outdoors. We aim to improve community health and well-being through multiple touchpoints and diverse opportunities to engage with nature.
FEATURES
Land and water activities for kids and adults
Highly adaptable for all ages and abilities
Includes instruction and necessary gear
May include subsidies for applicable groups
Gear Lending Library
Our Gear Lending Library allows St. Louis residents and community organizations to borrow over 950 pieces of outdoor equipment for free. Simply sign up, attend a training session, and check out items for camping, backpacking, environmental education, and more.
FEATURES
Free for St. Louis residents and community organizations
High-quality equipment for multiple activities
Additional gear use and packing tips available
Convenient pick-up and drop-off location
Event Support
River City Outdoors is committed to supporting communty organizations and events. Our staff are available to display at expositions and to speak on a variety of topics at conferences and community gatherings where expert representation is needed.
FEATURES
Highlights positive outdoor experiences for all
Adaptable talks and presentations
Promotes community engagement and connection
Sponsorships & Donations
River City Outdoors sponsors and donates to events and organizations focused on recreation, environmental education, and community care, particularly those that engage youth and historically excluded populations. In addition, media promotion is available through Terrain Magazine, our bimonthly publication.
FEATURES
Monetary and/or donation of goods and services
Media promotion targeting outdoor enthusiasts
Strengthens the outdoor recreation ecosystem
Outdoor Grants Program
A better future is possible if we work together to build the outdoor culture we want. River City Outdoors supports this vision through the awarding of our Outdoor for All Micro-Grants, one-time grants up to $5,000 for community-focused outdoor recreation projects that benefit the St. Louis region.
FEATURES
Support outdoor activities and equitable initiatives
Strengthen the outdoor recreation ecosystem
Promote community engagement and connection
Gateway Outdoor Expo + Summit
River City Outdoors hosts the Gateway Outdoor Expo + Summit, an annual gathering where you can discover and share outdoor opportunities in St. Louis and the Midwest. The weekend event serves as a hub for education, information, and networking within the regional outdoor community.
FEATURES
Display and speaking opportunities available
Free public entry for all attendees
Strengthens outdoor recreation ecosystem
Promotes community engagement and connection