Share Your Story

Story submissions open January 4, 2021

Have the great outdoors been calling? We’ve heard from visitors that 2020 was a year many of us found solace exploring and spending time outdoors. Whether it was a hike in a local forest or a weekend by the campfire, a first-time experience or an adventure you’ve enjoyed over the years, we’d love for you to “Share Your Story.”

Recreation.gov is seeking stories about adventures that touched your heart, made you laugh and created a memorable experience that will last a lifetime. Take a few moments to reminisce and recap your experience in 900 - 4,500 characters to win great prizes and have a chance to have your story featured on Recreation.gov.

Plan your next adventure, bring home a story, and make sure to share it in the Inaugural Share Your Story Contest!

Story Categories

Win great prizes! Multiple ways to win.

Enter now for a chance to win an REI gift card to gear up for your next adventure! And win an America the Beautiful - The National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass, your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites.

Grand Prizes

Grand Prizes
  • 1st Place: $2,500 REI Gift Card & Interagency Annual Pass
  • 2nd Place: $1,500 REI Gift Card & Interagency Annual Pass
  • 3rd Place: $1,000 REI Gift Card & Interagency Annual Pass

Category Prizes

Category Prizes

For each of the 6 categories

  • 1st Place: $300 REI Gift Card & Interagency Annual Pass
  • 2nd Place: $150 REI Gift Card & Interagency Annual Pass

Monthly Winners

Monthly Prizes

For the months of January, February, March, and April

  • 1st Place: $150 REI Gift Card & Interagency Annual Pass
  • Runner Up: $100 REI Gift Card & Interagency Annual Pass

Honorable Mentions

Honorable Mention Prizes

Ten honorable mentions!

  • Recreation.gov-branded gear such as socks, mugs, and stickers