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Early bird registration is open!
Friends of State Parks Conference
Haw River State Park
October 23-25, 2026
The 2026 FSP Conference is an opportunity to gather and learn about ways we can support the North Carolina State Park system. Sessions and presentations will engage park users, enthusiasts, and state leadership in current events, building partnerships, and utilizing resources in the most effective way.
Apply for a 2026 Friends of State Parks |
| Friends of State Parks is committed to making our annual conference accessible to park advocates from across North Carolina. A limited number of scholarships are available to help Friends group members, volunteers, and community partners attend the 2026 Friends of State Parks Conference. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a returning participant, the conference offers opportunities to learn, connect, and share ideas that strengthen North Carolina's state parks. We encourage anyone who could benefit from financial assistance to apply. Applications Due by August 16 Complete the 2026 Friends of State Parks Conference Scholarship Application to be considered. Please reach out to our Associate Director, Cynthia Peedin with questions. |
Haw River State Park – The Summit Environmental Education and Conference Center
located at 339 Conference Center Drive Browns Summit, NC 27214.
Conference Schedule at a Glance
Please note Saturday's agenda is still being formalized. We appreciate your patience as we confirm speakers and time slots. If you have specific questions about Saturday, please email Cynthia Peedin.
Friday, Oct. 23 - Networking and Kick-off 3 p.m. Check-in, for those staying on-site and Registration table opens 5:30 p.m. Official kick-off and welcome, social time 6:15 p.m. Dinner, Eastern NC BBQ with sides and a vegetarian option 7:15 p.m. Keynote Speaker, Adam Combs of Waypoint Adventure | Saturday, Oct. 24 - Official Conference Day 7:30 a.m. Breakfast Sessions will center around relationship building between Friends Groups and NC State Parks, fundamentals of a operating a 501c3, starting a Friends Group and how to use communications effectively for your local park. Afternoon (1-5pm) Resource sharing Group sessions will center around resource sharing-from volunteers, fundraising, and best practices for Friends Groups, attendees will be able to learn and share resources with NC State Park staff and other local group leaders. Evening (6 p.m.) Dinner and Socializing | Sunday, Oct. 25 - Board and Annual Members Meet 8:30 a.m. Breakfast 10 a.m. FSP Board of Directors Meeting and Annual Members Meeting 2 p.m. Meeting adjourns |
Who can attend?
Local Friends groups, FSP members and/or anyone interested in becoming more involved with Friends of State Parks.
Registration is open!
Early Bird Pricing ---------- Friday only: $25 Saturday only with meals: $80 Full Conference without lodging: $110 Full Conference with lodging: $300 Full Conference with lodging-double occupancy:$410 | Regular Pricing ---------- Friday only: $25 Saturday only with meals: $110 Full Conference without lodging: $160 Full Conference with lodging: $350 Full Conference with lodging-double occupancy: $510 |