2026 SC Nature-Based Tourism Association Annual Conference

An annual event providing educational programs and networking opportunities for SC nature-based tourism businesses and organizations.

Welcome to the 2026 SC Nature-Based Tourism Association Annual Conference!

Date: October 5 and 6, 2026

Location: Great Falls, S.C.

Join us for two days of engaging discussions, valuable networking opportunities, and inspiring insights into South Carolina’s nature-based tourism industry, sponsored by the Olde English District Tourism Commission, Visit Chester County, and the South Carolina Association of Tourism Regions.

This year’s conference will feature guest speakers from Visit Chester County, Duke Energy, Great Falls Home Town Association, and the Olde English District Tourism Commission. Outdoor adventures will also be offered including a guided flatwater kayak excursion on the Catawba River, a guided nature walk on the Great Falls Rail Trail, and a tour of the not yet open Dearborn Island State Park.

Whether you’re a business owner, outfitter, tourism department, economic development organization, or outdoor enthusiast, this event is your opportunity to learn, network, and help shape the future of South Carolina’s outdoor industry. Connect with industry peers, gain valuable insights into nature-based tourism, and explore the natural beauty of Chester County and in the Olde English District. Don’t miss this engaging and inspiring event designed to foster collaboration, spark new ideas, and celebrate South Carolina’s incredible outdoor resources.

More information regarding registration and lodging is detailed below.

Registration*: All attendees are required to register. The regular registration rate is $75.00. For those participating in the optional October 5th paddling excursion, the rate is $100.00. The deadline for registering is Monday, September 28, 2026. The registration fee covers the meeting sessions, guided tours on the rail trail and at Dearborn Island State Park, break snacks, and continental breakfast and lunch on October 6, 2026.
*There is a processing fee for all credit card transactions

*If paying by check contact April Turner (see contact information below).

Conference Venue and Lodging: The event will be held at the Great Falls War Memorial Building (401 Dearborn Street, Great Falls, SC 29055).

Overnight accommodations are available for a special rate ($112) at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in nearby Richburg, SC; to make your reservation click here. The deadline for the room block is September 21, 2026.

There is additional lodging for a special rate 2-night stay at the Canoe Blue Retreat, located at 68 Quarry Rd, Great Falls, SC 29055. To reserve lodging at Canoe Blue or for any questions or details please contact Danielle Bailey at chayton6@gmail.com and reference “SCNBT.”

About SCNBTA

The South Carolina Nature-Based Tourism Association (SCNBTA) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 to advance nature-based tourism across South Carolina. Through networking, professional development, and education, SCNBTA supports the sustainable use of the state’s natural and cultural resources while strengthening the outdoor tourism industry.

Proceeds from SCNBTA’s Annual Conference fund youth scholarships to Camp Wildwood at Kings Mountain State Park, helping inspire and prepare the next generation of conservation leaders through hands-on outdoor education.

Questions: Please contact April Turner by email or phone: april.turner@scseagrant.org or (843)991-3192.

Conference Program: For details check out the agenda below.