Calling all LCOs, nonprofits, corporate partners, land managers, land owners, climbing gyms, land trusts, clubs, and anyone else who calls themselves a climbing advocate!

Join us in Fayetteville, WV on May 1 and 2, 2026 for our annual climbing advocacy conference. Come learn the latest from national experts on protecting access to your favorite crags.

Each year, Access Fund unites the passionate leaders of the climbing advocacy community to celebrate our victories and tackle the challenges ahead. We bring together local climbing organizations, land managers, landowners, climbing gyms, gear companies, land trusts, and more to forge the future of climbing. Together, we rally for progress, ensuring that our beloved sport continues to thrive and inspire for generations to come.

This year, we’ll meet in the climbing hub of the New River Gorge to experience incredible sandstone climbing and discuss both regional and national access issues. Mark your calendars for 2 days of presentations, panels, and conversations on protecting America’s climbing.

Thank you to New River Alliance of Climbers (NRAC) for helping us plan this year’s event.

Get Tickets

Access Fund 2025 Climbing Advocacy Conference. Tucson, Arizona. © Caleb Timmerman.

2026 Conference Information

FLIGHTS & TRAVEL:
- (CRW) Charleston, WV – 1 hour drive
- (ROA) Roanoke, VA – 2 hour drive
- (CLT) Charlotte, NC – 3.5 hour drive
- (PIT) Pittsburgh, PA – 3.5 hour drive
- (LEX) Lexington, KY – 4 hour drive
LODGING:
- Adventures on the Gorge
  - 2026 Access Fund Retreat
- Quality Inn (Fayetteville)
  - Group name: Access Fund
  - Check-In: 4/30
  - Check-Out: 5/3
  - 10 rooms at $109/night
  - (304) 574-8256
- The Outpost
CAMPING:
- American Alpine Club campground
- Adventures on the Gorge
- Ray’s
- Arrowhead Farm
- Chestnut Creek
CLIMBING AREAS:
CLIMBING GYMS:
- Gripped Fitness
SUGGESTED GUIDEBOOKS:
- New River Rock, Vol. 1 – New River Gorge proper
- New River Rock, Vol. 2 – Meadow River & Summersville area
- New River Gorge Bouldering
GEAR STORES:
- Water Stone Outdoors
Each year, Access Fund convenes climbing advocates from around the country in a new location to share best practices and develop the skills and knowledge they need to protect America’s climbing. This National Climbing Advocacy Conference is a valuable experience, but it can be a financial burden for some advocates. The Ghiselli Scholarship Fund exists to ensure that exceptional climbing advocates can attend our conference and advance their skills, regardless of financial circumstances. Learn more & apply here.