Registration is now open for the 2026 George O’Leary National School of Outdoor Hospitality, taking place February 22–27 at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia. The in-person program equips RV park and campground operators with business management skills tailored to the outdoor hospitality sector.
The program is designed to provide attendees with the competencies necessary to operate a thriving outdoor hospitality business. Participants will gain practical knowledge in managing park operations, enhancing guest experiences, and improving financial performance.
According to the program’s details, the first-year curriculum, Outdoor Hospitality Manager (OHM), focuses on front-line operations management for RV parks and campgrounds. It emphasizes creating optimal guest experiences through defined service levels, operating standards, and customer service best practices.
Financial management tailored to the outdoor hospitality industry is a central component of the OHM curriculum. Attendees will learn strategies to enhance efficiency and profitability while maintaining high service standards.
Human resources management is also addressed in Year 1, with training in effective supervision and team leadership to support workforce development.
Risk identification and emergency preparedness form a key part of the program, equipping managers to protect guests and facilities from potential hazards.
Marketing strategies are included to help operators leverage digital platforms and maximize occupancy rates, aligning promotional efforts with guest experience objectives.
The second-year curriculum, Outdoor Hospitality Professional (OHP), builds on operational foundations to address advanced management concepts and park ownership considerations.
OHP participants will explore methods to improve the camping environment, including communication, maintenance, landscaping, recreation, and security initiatives.
Advanced financial and operational strategies are central to Year 2, with a focus on profitability, strategic business planning, and operational efficiency.
The program also covers capital improvements and site planning as tools to enhance camper experiences and increase property value.
Workforce management in Year 2 emphasizes hiring for impact and fostering ownership-minded teams to support long-term operational success.
Risk mitigation strategies expand in OHP, including hazard prevention, customized insurance options, and comprehensive business continuity planning.
Marketing instruction in Year 2 is also designed to enhance campground visibility through modern techniques and promotional strategies relevant to the outdoor hospitality sector.
The program maintains a cohort-based, in-person model to ensure interactive learning and peer engagement. Industry experts lead each session, providing attendees with actionable skills directly applicable to their parks and campgrounds.
For more information about the program, visit their website here.