Rooted in the Outdoors: Growing Rural Tourism Together

By james
September 24, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rooted in the Outdoors: Growing Rural Tourism Together

Explorers’ Edge Announces 2025 Regional Tourism Summit at KOA Parry Sound

Parry Sound, Ontario – September 23, 2025 – Explorers’ Edge is proud to host the 2025 Regional Tourism Summit on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at KOA Parry Sound. With the theme “Rooted in the Outdoors: Growing Rural Tourism Together,” this year’s event puts the power of nature, community, and hands-on programming at the centre of rural tourism growth.

Tickets are $50 (inclusive) and capacity is limited.

Hosted in the forest at KOA Parry Sound, the Summit brings campground operators, rural businesses, municipalities, and community partners together for a day of learning and connection—covering everything from AI and digital storytelling to the “campground advantage,” dark-sky experiences, and tech in outdoor hospitality.

As part of the on-site experience, attendees will enjoy local flavour from Buns on the Bay (coffee break treats) and a picnic-style lunch by Bubba Shady’s BBQ, underscoring the Summit’s commitment to working with local restaurateurs.

A Shared Vision for Rural Outdoors Tourism

“Rural Ontario’s greatest tourism asset is its outdoors,” said James Murphy, CEO of Explorers’ Edge. “This summit brings operators, communities, and innovators together to design experiences rooted in nature. When we lead with what makes us unique, authentic landscapes and the people who care for them, we grow an economy that benefits visitors and residents alike.”

At Parry Sound KOA, nature sets the stage, the focus on guest experience brings it to life. Tristan Berry, Co-Owner of Parry Sound KOA & Board Director with Explorers’ Edge, shared: “It’s not just camping—it’s what happens around the fire and throughout the campground, surrounded by towering pines and star-filled skies. We engage guests with daily activities, & camp focused events; bringing families together with easy, joyful traditions grounded in the outdoors.  That’s the KOA rhythm: show up, breathe in the fresh air, join in, and make a forever memory. Hosting the Summit here is our chance to share how consistent, low-barrier programming—woven into nature and repeated night after night—can turn a simple stay into a memory worthy of remembrance. From the forested trails to the firepit, we combine moments in nature with a level of service & amenity. Turning stays into stories & guests into ambassadors.”

Campgrounds deliver more than places to sleep, they deliver moments that stick. “They sit at the intersection of nature and hospitality,” added Sarah North-Harris, Vice Chair of Explorers’ Edge & Director of Education with Camping In Ontario. “With storytelling, thoughtful programming, and smart use of technology, we can amplify outdoor experiences and drive growth across rural Ontario.”

Summit Highlights

  • Keynote: Beyond SEO: Winning Online in the AI Travel Era — Peter Coish, Kuration Inc.
  • Sessions & Panel: Visual storytelling for product growth; Technology & the Outdoor Experience; The Campground Advantage panel on programming, nature-based activities, seasonal events, and local economic ripple effects.
  • On-Site Experience: Outdoor networking by the lodge/firepit and an optional pre-event campfire social the night before.

Dress: Camping Business Casual. Where to stay: Cabins, yurts, RV and tent sites are available at KOA Parry Sound (mention “Explorers’ Edge Summit”; space is limited).

Notes: Event details, program, ticketing, and local restaurateur partners are confirmed on the official event page; https://explorersedge.ca/events/2025-regional-tourism-summit/  

About Explorers’ Edge
Explorers’ Edge (RTO12) is the regional tourism organization for Muskoka, Parry Sound, Almaguin Highlands, Loring-Restoule, and South Algonquin. Its mandate is to strengthen the tourism economy through marketing, product development, workforce training, and strategic partnerships, with a focus on regenerative travel that supports communities and ecosystems.

-30-

Media Contact:
James Murphy, CEO Explorers’ Edge – 705-706-1649 [email protected]