Scholarship registration is now open as the George O’Leary National School of Outdoor Hospitality, bringing together industry professionals for an intensive program aimed at advancing skills in campground and outdoor hospitality management.
Held at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia, the training runs from February 22 to 27, 2026, and offers participants practical instruction from experienced industry leaders.
Organized by OHI, the program is designed for both new and experienced operators seeking to improve operational efficiency, enhance guest satisfaction, and strengthen long-term business strategies.
Applications for scholarships to attend the 2026 session remain open through August 29, providing financial assistance for qualifying participants.
“Through the George O’Leary National School, OHI continues to equip recreational campground owners and leisure park operators with the most comprehensive suite of tools and connections the industry has to offer,” the announcement indicates.
The curriculum is divided into two levels: Year 1 for Outdoor Hospitality Managers (OHM) and Year 2 for Outdoor Hospitality Professionals (OHP). Each level focuses on targeted skills development, covering areas from guest experience marketing to strategic financial planning.
In Year 1, participants receive instruction on marketing, creating standard operating procedures, hiring, employee training, leadership, budgeting, recreation programming, risk management, and ADA compliance. The focus is on establishing a strong operational foundation for a successful hospitality business.
Year 2 builds on those skills with more advanced topics such as analyzing marketing strategies, managing infrastructure and conservation efforts, addressing business ethics, and navigating employment law.
Training also includes handling challenging employment conversations, deepening knowledge of risk management, and exploring the long-term strategic implications of ADA requirements.
According to OHI, the school provides “the most comprehensive suite of tools and connections the industry has to offer,” with a focus on building both technical skills and professional networks. The program’s cohort-based format fosters collaboration and peer-to-peer learning, enhancing its value for attendees.
“Attending the George O’Leary National School of Outdoor Hospitality in Wheeling, West Virginia, was an incredible experience,” said Doug Davis, owner of Douglas Forest RV Resort.
“The networking opportunities connected me with passionate professionals from all corners of the industry,” he said.