Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) 2026 Conference

Urban Wild: Exploring Milwaukee’s Great Outdoors

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: 7/3/2026
Location: 
Minimum Participants: 2
Maximum Participants: 7
Host: Visit Milwaukee
Primary Contact: Claire Koenig, [email protected] 
Who can attend & Cost: 

• Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
• Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - Not Eligible
• Spouses/partners - $100

Transportation: 

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ITINERARY (subject to change)

Kick off your OWAA 2026 experience with an unforgettable pre-conference tour in Milwaukee. Paddle through the city’s river system, sail Lake Michigan’s vast blue waters, hike some of Milwaukee's 150+ miles of scenic trails, dive among Great Lakes shipwrecks, and discover Wisconsin’s first Thomas Dambo troll sculpture. Between adventures, you'll savor Milwaukee’s vibrant food scene, from craft brews to chef-driven cuisine. This trip will pack your notebook with ideas about Milwaukee's singular urban energy and myriad outdoor adventures.

Click here for: DETAILED ITINERARY

Outside the Ordinary in Janesville, Wisconsin

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: 7/17/2026
Location: 
Minimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 5
Host: Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Primary Contact: Katie Tranel, [email protected]
Who can attend & Cost: 

• Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
• Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - Not Eligible
• Spouses/partners - Not Eligible

Transportation: 

• 
  

ITINERARY (subject to change)

This three-day visit to Janesville, Wisconsin is built for writers that love to move through a community to experience all it has to offer. Just 45 minutes from Madison, this outdoors-forward itinerary will explore a handful of miles of the longest Ice Age Trail segment within city limits than anywhere else in Wisconsin, an award-winning botanical garden, a golden hour boat ride on Lake Koshkonong, and more tastes of local flavor sprinkled in. This itinerary mixes active exploration with moments to slow down: coffee stops, guided hikes, waterfront dinners, and even a jaw-dropping water ski show. It’s about discovering the kind of outdoor experiences that feel woven into a community, and leaving with stories and experiences that are grounded, unexpected, and authentic.

Wednesday, August 19:

• Rotary Botanical Gardens: Our afternoon at Rotary Botanical Gardens will feature a guided tour paired with a sustainability-focused presentation over lunch. Learn how intentional design, native plantings, and environmental stewardship come together in one of Wisconsin’s most respected public gardens.
• Skelly’s Farm Market: Take a behind-the-scenes visit to one of Rock County’s most beloved farm markets, including a walk through the strawberry and sunflower fields (both seasonal), a look at the on-site bakery, and a tasting featuring Skelly’s fresh-picked produce and homemade treats like sugar-dusted apple cider donuts and cookies.
• Dinner at Genisa Wine Bar: Genisa Wine Bar has an Italian-inspired menu of brick oven pizzas, decadent desserts, and an incredible wine menu to enjoy on their outdoor patio along the Rock River under the glow of string lights.
• Rock Aqua Jays: The Rock Aqua Jays are the most successful water ski show team in the world with more than 60 total tournament victories, including 24 U.S. National Championships. This Wednesday night performance will feature pyramids, ballet, jumping and barefoot water skiing on the waters of the Rock River.

Thursday, August 20:

• Coffee: Seemingly secluded, Mocha Moment is a coffee shop tucked right into the middle of Janesville overlooking a quiet woods. Mocha Moment roasts their own coffee beans and makes their baked goods from scratch. A perfect way to start your day!
• Guided Bike Ride: This one-hour guided bike ride of interconnected trails winds through parks, neighborhoods, and even along the river. This ride will show how Janesville blends everyday life with access to the outdoors as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community designated by the League of American Bicyclists.
• Picnic Lunch in Riverside Park: Enjoy lunch from Basics Cooperative under a covered pavilion in Riverside Park. Basics Cooperative is a community-owned grocery store with a café that serves paninis, soups, and smoothies.
• Devil’s Staircase Hike: This 1.5-mile segment of the Ice Age Trail travels along and up the side of the bluffs by the Rock River in Riverside Park.
• Pontoon Boat Ride on Lake Koshkonong & Dinner: Climb aboard a pontoon boat for a relaxed cruise on Lake Koshkonong. Calm water, open sky, and shoreline views capture the easy rhythm of late summer in southern Wisconsin paired with wine produced in local wineries followed by dinner at Anchor.
  
  

Friday, August 21:

• Coffee: Grab a to-go coffee, tea, or smoothie at Bodacious Brew to take along on our public art trail walk!
• Public Art Trail: With more than 50 pinpoints, Janesville’s public art trail is an absolutely gorgeous way to explore our revitalized and growing downtown. The trail highlights murals, sculptures, historical markers, and more.
• Lunch at So Chopped: So Chopped is a salad bistro where you can build your own healthy and delicious salads and wraps with fresh ingredients and premium toppings, featuring dressings made in-house.

From Lake to River: A Freshwater Journey Through Northeast Wisconsin

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: 
Minimum Participants:
Maximum Participants: 4
Host: Fox Cities CVB and Oshkosh CVB
Primary Contact: Tara Brzozowski, [email protected]
Who can attend & Cost: 

• Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
• Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - Not Eligible
• Spouses/partners -Not Eligible

Transportation: 

• 
  

ITINERARY (subject to change)

Experience Lake Winnebago from sunrise to sunset on this two-day Fox Cities getaway. Start in Oshkosh with morning fishing on one of Wisconsin’s most storied inland lakes, followed by an afternoon exploring the walkable waterfront. As evening sets in, unwind on a sunset Tiki Boat cruise before enjoying a classic Wisconsin fish fry at a local supper club. On day two, head north to the Fox Cities to sail or paddle the Fox River, bike or walk the Loop the Lake Trail, and hike the limestone cliffs of High Cliff State Park for sweeping views above the water—ending your trip with great food and drinks in downtown Neenah.

DAY 1 |Oshkosh — Lake Winnebago from Sunrise to Sunset

• Begin the day fishing on Lake Winnebago, one of Wisconsin’s most storied inland lakes. Summer angling focuses on walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, yellow perch, and freshwater drum, with guided experiences suited for both seasoned anglers and first-time visitors.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Oshkosh’s walkable waterfront before ending the day with a sunset Tiki Boat cruise followed by a classic Wisconsin fish fry at one of Oshkosh’s iconic supper clubs.
• Overnight in Oshkosh

DAY 2: Fox Cities — River, Trails & Cliff-Top Views

• Head north to experience the Fox Cities’ river-driven outdoor scene. Sail Lake Winnebago by catamaran or kayak the Fox River, then stretch your legs along the Loop the Lake Trail, which connects riverfront parks and downtowns.
• In the afternoon, explore High Cliff State Park, hiking along limestone cliffs and scenic overlooks high above Lake Winnebago—offering a dramatic perspective on the same waters experienced earlier by boat
• End the day enjoying the food and drink scene in downtown Neenah.
• Overnight in the Fox Cities
  
  Day 3: Wrap-Up & Departure

• A relaxed morning allows time for final photography, interviews, or solo exploration before departure.
  

Pre-Tour: Pedals & Parks

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: 7/17/2026
Minimum Participants: 6
Maximum Participants:10
Primary Contact: BCYCLE / Kris Neilson / [email protected]
Who can attend & Cost: 

• Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
• Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - Not Eligible
• Spouses/partners - Not Eligible

Start Location: Lussier Family Heritage
Meals & Transportation: A shuttle will transport attendees from Monona Terrace to the Lussier Family Heritage Center. A light picnic lunch will be provided.

ITINERARY (subject to change)

Enjoy a scenic guided bike tour through Madison with BCYCLE, starting at Lussier Family Heritage Center. Riders will follow the Lower Yahara River Trail, taking in beautiful views along Lake Waubesa before continuing through McDaniel Park and Babcock County Park. This relaxing ride showcases some of the area’s most picturesque landscapes and trails.

• Provided by: Destination Madison, Aly Catacutan, [email protected]  
• Minimum Participants: 6
• Maximum Participants: 6
• Meals & transportation will be covered with an optional dinner.
• Who can attend & cost - To confirm your place on this tour, a $25 reservation fee or a credit card on file is required and will be paid directly to Destination Madison. This fee will be fully refunded—or not processed—once you attend.
• • Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
  • Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - $0
  • Spouses/partners - $0

Kayak on the Sugar River from Verona to Paoli, just outside Madison, in the morning, ending at Seven Acre Dairy Co. A companion tour will also be offered at this time, with options to use the river-side sauna .The two groups will come together at lunch time for a classic Wisconsin Fish Fry before making their way back to Madison. 

(Times subject to change)

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: AUGUST 7 
(If minimum numbers have not been met by the deadline, the tour may be cancelled. You will be contacted with the option to choose another tour if this happens.) 

• Provided by: Destination Madison, Aly Catacutan, [email protected] 
  https://www.visitmadison.com/things-to-do/outdoors-and-recreation/on-the-lakes/ 
• Minimum Participants: 6
• Maximum Participants: 10
• Start Location: Starts and ends at The Edgewater hotel downtown Madison
• Meals & transportation (if needed) will be covered with an optional dinner.
• Who can attend & cost - To confirm your place on this tour, a $25 reservation fee or a credit card on file is required and will be paid directly to Destination Madison. This fee will be fully refunded—or not processed—once you attend.
  
  • Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
  • Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - $0
  • Spouses/partners - $0

Enjoy this combo pontoon and paddle tour as you explore beautiful Lake Mendota. Start the day off with a scenic and informative tour of Lake Mendota, learning about the lake’s history - from a submerged ancient Ho-Chunk village where canoes dating back thousands of years have been found, to the modern four-season use of the expansive lake. After the pontoon tour, you will embark with kayaks, single or tandem, and paddle deep into the beautiful Pheasant Branch Conservancy. This natural spring-fed marsh boasts over 1,800 gallons per minute, creating vital, clean water habitats for wildlife and aiding regional stormwater management.  A lakeside lunch will follow the kayak tour. The afternoon may include a visit the University of Wisconsin Arboretum along the shores of Lake Wingra for an overview hike or an ecological work group experience.  

(Times subject to change)

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: AUGUST 7 
(If minimum numbers have not been met by the deadline, the tour may be cancelled. You will be contacted with the option to choose another tour if this happens.) 

• Provided by: Destination Madison, Aly Catacutan, [email protected] 
  https://www.visitmadison.com/listings/ice-age-national-scenic-trail/183258/
• Minimum Participants:4
• Maximum Participants: 10
  
• Meals & transportation will be covered with an optional dinner.
• Who can attend & cost - To confirm your place on this tour, a $25 reservation fee or a credit card on file is required and will be paid directly to Destination Madison. This fee will be fully refunded—or not processed—once you attend. 
  • Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
  • Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - $0
  • Spouses/partners - $0

Embark on an exciting hiking adventure along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail! This tour features a picturesque 3-mile hike on one of the Trail's "showcase" segments, complemented by a less-than-1-mile bushwhacking experience into a recently acquired 100-acre addition to the Ice Age Trail. Starting at the Ice Age Trail Alliance headquarters, you'll gain insights into the creation and upkeep of a national scenic trail. Discover how land turns into a trail-hosting property while enjoying stunning natural beauty and a hint of urban exploration. Engage with trail builders and habitat restoration experts, making this journey a unique behind-the-scenes look at the Trail's essence. Lunch included.  

(Times subject to change)

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: AUGUST 7 
(If minimum numbers have not been met by the deadline, the tour may be cancelled. You will be contacted with the option to choose another tour if this happens.) 

A Legacy of Conservation: The Past and Present of Wisconsin’s Wild Spaces

DEADLINE TO REGISTER:  7/22/2026
Minimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 5
Host: Travel Wisconsin
Primary Contact: Logan Wroge, [email protected]
Who can attend & Cost: 

• Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
• Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - Not Eligible
• Spouses/partners -Not Eligible (Exceptions for spouses/partners may be made on a case-by-case scenario. Media are welcome to inquire further.)

ITINERARY (subject to change)

Wisconsin is nearly half covered in forests, home to 15,000 inland lakes and crisscrossed with 84,000 miles of rivers and streams. The natural spaces of the state aren’t just a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. They’ve inspired pioneering minds in conservation and wilderness preservation like Aldo Leopold, John Muir and Gaylord Nelson. Join this road trip to trace the legacy and modern practices of conservation in Wisconsin while enjoying the state’s natural spaces yourself.
Note: The trip outline provides the dates of the FAM and the destinations and experiences anticipated to be included. The exact timing and activities on the FAM itinerary are subject to change. Check back for updates.


Day 1 | Tuesday, Aug. 25
The trip will start by departing Madison for the Baraboo region north of the capital city. Defined by rocky outcroppings and rugged bluffs, the natural beauty of the region has influenced the past and present of global conservation efforts. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• Visiting the Aldo Leopold Shack and Farm for a guided tour of the family retreat of the famed author and conservationist• Learning about modern conservation practices at the International Crane Foundation • Hiking the bluffs of Devil’s Lake State Park — Wisconsin’s most visited state park

Day 2 | Wednesday, Aug. 26
The second day of this trip will explore the lush forests and running waters of the Stevens Point area. Located centrally in Wisconsin, Stevens Point is a recreational playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The local college, UW-Stevens Point, is renowned for its College of Natural Resources, which prepares future leaders in conservation, sustainability and resource management. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• Biking the Green Circle Trail — a community-led and -funded trail circling the area for 27 miles• Paddling the Wisconsin River and sloughs of the area• Visiting Central Waters Brewing Co. to learn about one of the most environmentally sustainable breweries in the nation

Day 3 | Thursday, Aug. 27
The third day of this trip will include a visit to the Horicon Marsh — North America’s largest freshwater cattail marsh and a critical stopping ground for the migration of Canada geese and ducks. Birders have documented more than 300 bird species at the marsh. The day will end with returning back to Madison. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• A guided sightseeing tour of Horicon Marsh• Learning about modern efforts to protect and restore the jointly managed Horicon Marsh

Day 4 | Friday, Aug. 28
This trip concludes in Madison. Attendees may book departing flights from the Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to their next destination for any time on this day.

Angling for Adventure in Wisconsin’s Driftless Region

DEADLINE TO REGISTER:  7/22/2026
Minimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 5
Host: Travel Wisconsin
Primary Contact: Logan Wroge, [email protected]
Who can attend & Cost: 

• Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
• Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - Not Eligible
• Spouses/partners -Not Eligible (Exceptions for spouses/partners may be made on a case-by-case scenario. Media are welcome to inquire further.)

ITINERARY (subject to change)

Discover a dreamy escape in Wisconsin’s Driftless region. Untouched by the glaciers, this area is defined by rolling hills and valleys, natural trout streams and winding rivers, and lush forests and dark skies. The Washington Post named the Driftless region among its top 12 crowd-free, global destinations to visit in 2026. Join this road trip to discover the untold and under-told stories of outdoor recreation in the Driftless, from fly fishing some of the country’s best trout streams to paddling placid waterways and hiking fern-covered valleys.
Note: The trip outline provides the dates of the FAM and the destinations and experiences anticipated to be included. The exact timing and activities on the FAM itinerary are subject to change. Check back for updates.

Day 1 | Tuesday, Aug. 25
The trip begins by departing Madison for the Driftless region of southwest Wisconsin. This geological oddity of the Midwest was missed by the land-shaping powers of the glaciers during the last Ice Age. The absence of sediment deposits known as “glacial drift” gave the region its name — and its unique outdoor recreation opportunities. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• Kayaking the winding bends and sandstone cliffs of the Kickapoo River • Visiting the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, a nature preserve of forested valleys and bluffs jointly managed between the State of Wisconsin and Ho-Chunk Nation

Day 2 | Wednesday, Aug. 26
The second day of the trip will explore the Viroqua area, centrally located in the heart of the Driftless. A thriving arts community, culinary scene and outdoor playground radiates from this city. The world-class trout streams of the Driftless, covering more than 13,000 miles, draw anglers from near and far to Viroqua. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• Guided fly-fishing excursion to the area’s trout streams• Exploring the local flavors and leading culinary culture of the area

Day 3 | Thursday, Aug. 27
The third day of the trip explores the city of La Crosse on the banks of the Mississippi River. The most populous region in southwest Wisconsin, La Crosse weaves together urban conveniences with exceptional outdoor activities, from rock climbing and hiking to biking and fishing the Mighty Mississippi. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• Visiting Grandad Bluff, a Wonder of Wisconsin, for views from this city-owned park rising 600 feet about the river valley• Opportunities to hike, fish, paddle or bike in the broader La Crosse region

Day 4 | Friday, Aug. 28
The final day of the trip will leave La Crosse for Madison at approximately 8 a.m. Attendees should book flights departing from the Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) at 12 p.m. CT or later.