Troutdale, OR. — Oregon State Parks is inviting young people ages 6–17 to share their creativity and connection to nature through its Youth Audio Story Contest, an initiative celebrating storytelling inspired by Oregon’s outdoors.
Oregon’s landscapes have long fueled imagination, from rushing rivers to old-growth forests. The contest encourages youth to add their voices to that tradition by submitting original, youth-narrated audio stories inspired by experiences in nature.
This year’s contest highlights the Columbia River Gorge, a region known for its scenic beauty, cultural significance, and ecological richness. Submissions may reflect real-life experiences—such as a favorite trail or wildlife encounter—or imaginative adventures set in Oregon’s natural spaces.
The winning story will be featured as part of the Accessible Gorge Audio Trails project, an online resource designed to reduce informational barriers for visitors and residents with disabilities. The selected entry will also be accessible via QR codes placed at select trailheads in the Columbia River Gorge, offering visitors a unique youth perspective on the landscape.
Entries may be submitted by individuals or small groups of up to three participants. All submissions must be made by a parent or legal guardian on behalf of the youth.
The submission deadline is Friday, February 20, at 11:59 p.m. PST. The winner will be notified by email, and the selected story will be announced on the Oregon State Parks website on February 28.
Additional details about the Youth Audio Story Contest and the Accessible Gorge Audio Trails project are available on the contest webpage.
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