Here is a categorized list of outdoor recreation organizations & associations for all you recreation fans. These will get you started for getting involved in the outdoor hiking community as well as help you plan your backpacking trips.
Hiking and Backpacking Trail Organizations and Associations
American Hiking Society National hiking community that focuses on volunteerism (like NTD) and developing hiker-friendly legislation. Offers insurance for assistance in hiking emergencies.
Appalachian Mountain Club Protects and maintains more than 1,500 miles of trails in the NE, which includes about 350 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
Continental Divide Trail Alliance Works to complete the vision of a 3,100-mile backcountry trail stretching from Canada to Mexico, which is only about 70% usable in its current state.
North Country Trail Association Group that maintains 4,600 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail thru volunteers and chapters.
National Park Service Manages the 392 recreation areas and parks that comprises our National Park System.
US Bureau of Land Management Manages 256 million acres of public lands mostly in the Western United States and Alaska.
US Forest Service Manages 193 million acres of land that make up our National forests and grasslands.
US Fish and Wildlife Service Manages over 150 million acres of 551 areas that are part of the National Wildlife Refuge System as well as other special management areas.
More Outdoor Organizations
Continue to the next page for a list of Environmental and Conservation Organizations. These groups are important to hikers and backpackers because of the work they do in fighting to protect and preserve our public lands and they offer you the chance to get involved.
