Like many Midwest cities, St. Louis lacks a strong active living culture. Its natural resources are often underappreciated. In addition, long-standing racial and socioeconomic challenges create barriers for marginalized communities to enjoy outdoor recreation.
River City Outdoors was founded to address these inequities. Our mission is to support, promote, and advocate for outdoor recreation for all. We believe everyone deserves to connect with natural spaces in ways that are safe and meaningful to them, leading to a healthier, more inclusive community.
We pursue this vision through innovative programming, education, partnerships, funding, and community engagement. Our goal is not just more recreation but to build a culturally and economically strong St. Louis. We are dedicated to sharing diverse and authentic stories and promoting our region as a national destination for outdoor adventure.
Focused on reaching those with limited access to outdoor recreation, River City Outdoors works closely with trusted community organizations to break down barriers and build a welcoming, equitable, and sustainable outdoor ecosystem.
ABOUT Us
OUR IMPACT
River City Outdoors has made a profound impact by providing and funding programs that address critical issues such as outdoor inequity, education, and community connection. Our commitment to these causes has not only increased access to nature and learning opportunities but also strengthened the bonds and engagement within the communities we serve.
1
Total amount contributed to the St. Louis outdoor community in 2024.
115
Outdoor adventure trips guided by Big Muddy Adventures in 2024. Our excursions offer something for everyone and blend physical activity, outdoor education, and community interactions.
22,479
Boats and bikes rented in 2024 at Big Muddy Adventures at the Boathouse and Simpson Lake. More rentals mean more access to independent outdoor experiences.
192,000
Readers reached by Terrain Magazine in 2024. Our free bimonthly publication features inclusive outdoor articles, news, events, destination features, and more.
Our Programs
Staff
River City Outdoors is staffed and guided by a group of longtime outdoor enthusiasts and thought leaders who also call St. Louis home.
Roo Yowitz
President
Matt Green
Executive Director
Brad Kovach
Deputy Director
Sara Feagans
Director of Operations
Chris Geden
Director of Community Engagement
Natalie Rolwes
Director of Communications
Mark Malkowicz
Manager of Outfitting
Pete Nagel
Manager of BMA at Simpson Lake
Amanda Weaver
Manager of Experiences
Rob Fulstone
Manager of Facilities & Special Projects
Shawn Donelly
Managing Editor
Logan Faircloth
Community Engagement Coordinator
Darcia Haley
Operations Assistant
Reiss Wegman
Digital Media Specialist
Lucy Faulkingham
River Guide
HEALTH
Access to outdoor recreation leads to improved health outcomes across the region.
Equity
Our programs promote equitable access to outdoor recreation for all.
Quality of Life
Communities that offer outdoor recreation opportunities are happier, more vibrant, and foster a stronger sense of civic pride.
Economic Activity
outdoor recreation contributes to regional economic viability by improving quality of life and boosting economic output through tourism and a strong outdoor industry.
Collective impact
By bringing people together in a structured, collaborative way, we address complex challenges and drive significant change.
Conservation
Outdoor recreation fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and supports conservation efforts.
How We Benefit The Region
6,000
Attendees at the 2024 Gateway Outdoor Expo + Summit. Our free annual exposition serves as a hub for education, information, and networking within the regional outdoor community.
112
Partner organizations in the River City Outdoors network. We work with groups in the education, environment, social, and community sectors to expand equitable outdoor recreation in St. Louis.
