Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The Oregon Conservation & Recreation Fund Grant aims to safeguard Oregon's fish and wildlife habitats through funding of up to $100,000 for drought-related projects, totaling $800,000 available. Additionally, $250,000 is allocated for other conservation and recreation initiatives with a maximum of $50,000 per project. The grant prioritizes support for smaller organizations, especially those from underserved communities, ensuring long-term ecological benefits and recreational opportunities for future generations.

The Schwemm Family Foundation Grant supports initiatives promoting environmental enhancement, local history preservation, and community health. It aims to strengthen communities in Oregon, California, and the Chicago area by funding projects that protect ecosystems, document culture, and foster equitable access to resources. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) non-profits dedicated to measurable outcomes that align with the Foundation's goals. The Foundation does not fund operating support or scientific research.

The Dubs Foundation's Responsive Grants Program aims to empower youth and promote healthy families through innovative projects in Southern Oregon and Northern California. Established in 1996, the foundation prioritizes rural organizations that foster an active outdoor lifestyle and support veterans' reintegration. With a focus on community improvement, the foundation encourages partnerships with nonprofits to enhance access to basic needs and inspire a love of wilderness areas. Applicants should review fluid guidelines regularly as the foundation prepares for its 20th anniversary.

The NRA Foundation: Oregon Grants aim to support educational and public service programs related to shooting sports. The foundation provides funding for projects that promote firearms safety, educate individuals about firearms, and conduct research for improved safety practices. Eligible organizations include IRS recognized entities and government bodies. The foundation does not fund commercial ventures or activities requiring NRA membership. This initiative fosters community engagement and enhances skills in marksmanship and safety for all participants.

The Gray Family Foundation Camp Maintenance fund aims to enhance outdoor school camp facilities across Oregon, investing over $500,000 annually since 2014. This initiative focuses on vital repairs, including weatherproofing, roofing, and plumbing systems, ensuring safe and accessible environments for children. Applications are open to non-profit organizations without invitation, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in selection. However, capital projects for new construction and recreational maintenance are excluded from funding.

The Outdoor School Grant provides immersive outdoor education experiences for Oregon’s 5th and 6th graders, promoting learning in the state's natural landscapes. It aims to empower youth through community-building and high-quality resources, ensuring equitable and culturally responsive programs. With a focus on fostering personal and environmental awareness, the grant supports programs that are a minimum of 3 days and a maximum of 6 days, encouraging schools to maximize outdoor learning time.

The Oregon All-Terrain Vehicle Grant Program supports off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation across the state. Funded by ATV user permit sales and gasoline tax, it aims to enhance trail operation, maintenance, law enforcement, and emergency medical services. Eligible projects include planning, developing public recreation areas, and educational initiatives focused on safety and environmental awareness. This program is crucial for promoting responsible OHV use while ensuring safety and maintaining natural landscapes.

The Oregon Wildlife Foundation Grants support the conservation of fish and wildlife and the enjoyment of natural resources in Oregon. These small grants are available to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, tax-exempt organizations, and qualified individuals for projects focused on habitat restoration, public access improvement, education, pollution reduction, and invasive species control. Priority is given to projects that align with the Oregon Conservation Strategy.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance program was established by the LWCF Act of 1965 (Section 6, Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965, as amended; Public Law 88-578; 16 U.S.C 4601-4 et seq.) to stimulate a nationwide action program to assist in preserving, developing, and assuring to all citizens of the United States of present and future generations such quality and quantity of outdoor recreation resources as may be available and are necessary and desirable for individual active participation. The LWCF State Assistance Program provides matching grants to States, and through the States to local governments, for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities.  The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is intended to create and maintain a nationwide legacy of high-quality recreation areas and facilities and to stimulate non-federal investments in the protection and maintenance of recreation resources across the United States.

The Local Government Grant Program (LGGP) is a voter approved, State lottery funded grant program administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Typically, the program awards over $15 million annually to qualified projects, and has awarded over $100 million in grant funding since the program began in 1999. Large, Small and Planning Grants:

Annual grant funds are available upon Legislative approval of OPRD’s budget. Project funding depends on the amount of money available and the project's standing on the small or large project priority list.

• Small Grants – projects with a maximum $100,000 grant request. 
• Large Grant Requests - projects with a maximum grant request of $1,000,000.
• Small Community Planning Grants – projects with a maximum grant request of $50,000.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

The mission of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. Its vision is to take the long view to protect Oregon's special places and provide the greatest experience while creating stable future funding.

The department was created as a branch of the Highway Department in 1921. The 1989 Legislature created a separate Parks and Recreation Department, effective in 1990. State park user fees, Oregon Lottery dollars, and recreation vehicle license fees are the main fund sources for department activities.

Recreational Trails Program

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federally funded grant program administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Since 1993, Oregon has funded over 500 projects with RTP funds to develop, improve, or expand motorized and non-motorized trails and their facilities.

• Eligible projects include:
  • Construction of new trails
  • Major rehabilitation of existing trails
  • Development or improvement of trailhead or other support facilities
  • Acquisition of land or easements for the purpose of trail development
  • Safety and education projects

The Walters Family Foundation Grant focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations that address the needs of at-risk youth, families, and the elderly. The Foundation aims to effect positive change through strategic partnerships, site visits, and grant awards, primarily in Oregon, especially metropolitan Portland. They emphasize energizing nonprofit partners to achieve excellence, ultimately improving the lives of those less fortunate. Eligibility is limited to tax-exempt public charities in good financial standing, with certain exclusions for individuals and non-U.S. entities.

The Superfeet Local Grant supports nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing community well-being and environmental health. Grants focus on basic needs, outdoor accessibility, and sustainability, empowering underserved populations through equitable access to recreation. Preference is given to initiatives in Washington state, ensuring a meaningful impact in local communities. The foundation's commitment includes funding projects that foster inclusivity and promote long-term engagement with nature and recreational spaces.

The Foster Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Pacific Northwest that align with priority funding issues such as social services, education, medical research, and community engagement. The foundation seeks to cultivate long-term partnerships and is committed to improving community life through various initiatives. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and address one of the foundation's priority issues while ensuring that funds are used within the designated geographic reach.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund's Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program aims to enhance recreational opportunities in underserved communities through significant funding. Offering matching grants up to 50%, with awards ranging from $300,000 to $15,000,000, this program encourages applicants to connect with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection early in the application process for guidance. This initiative supports large-scale projects that improve access to recreational facilities.

The Nature in Neighborhoods Capital Grants, provided by Metro, support diverse community projects aimed at enhancing local parks, restoring streams, and promoting nature education. These grants prioritize projects led by community organizations and local governments, focusing on publicly owned capital projects that advance racial equality and climate resilience. With funding available for land acquisition and urban transformations, the program seeks to engage communities and foster connections with nature throughout the greater Portland area.

The NACD Technical Assistance Grants program, in partnership with NRCS, has been enhancing conservation district support since 2018. By funding staff hires, it aims to improve service for agricultural producers and address conservation workload challenges. The initiative focuses on outreach, education, and civic engagement to empower local communities, promote sustainability, and support historically underserved producers in implementing conservation practices, thereby fostering both individual and community resilience.

SITKA Ecosystem Grants support projects that enhance ecosystems and promote conservation efforts. These grants encourage both grassroots initiatives and larger organizational projects, aiming to improve habitat restoration, biodiversity, and the hunting experience. With funding ranging from $3,000 to $20,000, applicants must be 18 years or older and have relevant experience. The review process is ongoing, and projects should emphasize collaboration and measurable impacts on environmental goals, benefiting both society and ecosystems.

The Veterans and Nature Grant, offered by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, aims to engage veterans in outdoor activities that promote physical and mental health. With a funding pool of $100,000, grants of up to $10,000 are available for projects focused on outdoor recreation and wellness activities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) entities partnered with public land organizations, fostering environmental awareness and community involvement.

The Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest invites municipal entities and non-profits in the U.S. to apply for the Inclusive Design Award. This award recognizes splash pads that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. Winners will receive a customized Life Floor safety surface, valued at $50-65k, promoting community engagement and safety. With two opportunities to win, this initiative aims to enhance splash pad designs, ensuring they cater to all individuals. Join us in making splash pads safer and more accessible for everyone!

The Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest, co-hosted by Inside Edge Safety Surfaces, offers two all-expenses-paid awards for Life Floor safety surfaces, aimed at enhancing community splash pads. The Need-Based Award targets municipalities and non-profits demonstrating financial need, with design options including planks, bubbles, and geometric shapes. Grant values range from $50,000 to $65,000, depending on project size, ensuring safety and accessibility for all users.

The Wilsonville - Metro Community Enhancement Grants, overseen by the Metro Council, support projects enhancing local communities impacted by solid waste facilities. Funding is available for initiatives that improve environmental quality, promote recycling, and benefit underserved populations. Nominations for projects will be accepted from November 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026, with selections made in spring 2026. Grants aim to rehabilitate and enhance city areas, fostering community enrichment through various programs.

The Community Enhancement Grants in Sherwood, funded by Metro, aim to uplift neighborhoods impacted by garbage transfer facilities. Since 1986, over $6 million has been invested in local projects, enhancing community well-being through initiatives that support youth, improve environmental quality, and boost recreational opportunities. Each spring, approximately $90,000 is awarded to various projects, fostering collaboration between non-profits, local governments, and community organizations. This program exemplifies a commitment to creating thriving communities in the Sherwood area.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Hunting Heritage

Ensuring our hunting heritage is central to RMEF’s mission. Hunters—America’s first conservationists—remain the driving force behind wildlife conservation. RMEF funds hunting heritage and conservation education to help more people experience the outdoors, learn the skills of hunting, and carry forward the traditions that define big game country, including outdoor skills programs/events, hunter or conservation outreach, mentored hunts, and other similar activities.

Cell Signaling Technology’s Environmental Grants support initiatives aimed at ecosystem protection, wildlife research, and environmental education. Priority is given to action-oriented projects with at least 70% of funding allocated to those directly impacting the environment. Applications are accepted annually until May 1st, with a focus on organizations in Massachusetts, particularly the North Shore of Boston. Non-profit status is required, and discriminatory projects will not be funded.

Metro's Nature Education Grants aim to foster connections between communities and nature in the Portland area. These grants support projects that enhance environmental education, promote cultural equity, and engage diverse populations. By prioritizing programs that address racial equity and climate resilience, the grants seek to create partnerships that improve local ecosystems and community engagement. Offered every two years, they encourage innovative projects that restore habitats and provide hands-on educational experiences for all ages.

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) is a competitive grant initiative by the National Park Service, aimed at enhancing parks and recreational opportunities in urban, underserved communities. This program supports the acquisition, development, and renovation of outdoor recreation areas through federal funding, addressing the needs of community organizations, local governments, and recognized tribes. Applications are accepted twice a year, before June 1 and November 1.