OHI has officially opened applications for its reimagined 2025 Awards of Excellence, with nominations accepted through September 12.
The updated recognition program places a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, leadership, and service across the outdoor hospitality industry.
This year’s changes reflect a broader effort by OHI to highlight forward-thinking ideas and individuals shaping the future of private RV parks, campgrounds, and suppliers across North America.
According to OHI, the redesigned awards aim to honor “the boldest risk-takers, idea-makers, and trailblazers” in outdoor hospitality.
Several long-standing categories have been updated, including the former Park of the Year, which has evolved into Park Innovator of the Year.
This new category celebrates five parks that are transforming operations or guest experiences through creative solutions. It is divided into five segments based on park size, including small, medium, large, mega, and multi-park corporate entities.
The Supplier Innovator of the Year award will recognize two supplier members whose products or services have contributed to park success through forward-thinking innovations. This replaces the previous Supplier of the Year category.
Environmental sustainability is also the focus of the Plan-It Green – Environmental Innovator of the Year award. This category honors two parks that demonstrate measurable impact in areas such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and ecosystem protection. This replaces the Plan-It Green Park of the Year award.
Formal applications are required for these three categories. To support expanded judging and recognition efforts, an entry fee of $50 has been introduced, or $35 for parks with fewer than 250 sites.
“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,” Basler added.
The program also includes individual honors such as the Outdoor Hospitality Industry Leadership Award and the Unity Through Generosity Award. These categories aim to recognize individuals who lead, mentor, or give back to the broader industry.
The Leadership Award replaces the State Leader recognition and will now spotlight individuals making an impact at local, regional, and national levels. The Unity Through Generosity Award honors individuals nominated by industry peers for their community-first mindset and long-standing service.
Unlike other categories, there is no fee for submitting nominations for the Leadership or Unity Through Generosity awards.
Winners will be announced at the 2025 Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo (OHCE), scheduled to take place in Louisville, Kentucky.
Full eligibility criteria and category details are available at ohi.org/awards.