The final day of OHCE 2026 brought a full schedule to the Fort Worth Convention Center, with association updates, education sessions and a few more hours to connect on the Expo Hall floor.
The morning began with the OHI 2026 Year in Review & Looking Ahead Annual Breakfast Meeting, featuring OHI President and CEO Paul Bambei and Chief Strategy Officer and SVP of Government Affairs David Basler. The meeting gave attendees an opportunity to reflect on the association’s work over the past year and hear what’s ahead for OHI and the broader industry.
The breakfast also marked an important moment for OHI’s leadership, as five new board members were sworn in to begin their service. As OHI celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, the meeting offered a fitting opportunity to recognize the people helping guide the association’s continued work on behalf of its members.
The expo hall opened at 8 a.m. for its final morning, welcoming attendees for a few more hours to visit exhibitor booths, explore products and services, and connect with industry partners.
Wednesday also brought a couple of fun additions to the convention experience. Attendees could stop by for free professional headshots, giving them an updated photo to take home, or take a break for some puppy cuddles during a special visit from some four-legged guests.
The morning’s educational offerings included discussions on negotiating and building stronger business relationships, the value of unique rental accommodations, and the benefits of submetering electrical usage at RV parks. These shorter presentations gave attendees additional opportunities to pick up practical ideas while spending time in the expo hall.
At noon, attendees gathered for Advocacy in Action for Outdoor Hospitality, a luncheon discussion led by David Basler. The session explored important issues affecting campground owners and operators, with conversations centered on advocacy priorities at the state and federal levels. It offered attendees a closer look at the issues OHI is working on and the role advocacy plays in supporting the Outdoor Hospitality Industry.
Running alongside the luncheon, Lisa Courtney of Camp Jellystone led Inside National School, sharing some of the top-rated lessons and insights from National School students and faculty.
The afternoon educational sessions covered a range of business priorities, including campground profitability and financial planning. Attendees also had opportunities to explore ways to improve the guest experience and build stronger teams, with Christa and Jonathan Neundorfer of Aspen Grove RV Park leading an interactive workshop focused on evaluating their own guest experience and identifying opportunities to improve revenue.
Campfire Sessions returned with discussions designed around different roles within campground operations. Managers explored the evolving demands of leading hospitality teams, while guest services professionals discussed ways to address common guest complaints without adding labor.
After another full day at OHCE, attendees gathered for Neon Rodeo, the conference’s closing reception. The evening featured live entertainment and plenty of fun, giving industry friends one more opportunity to enjoy time together in their brightest western wear. The conference game winner was also announced during the celebration, capping off the event with one final moment of excitement.
Wednesday offered a fitting mix of association updates and industry education, ending with some neon level fun. As OHCE 2026 continued its celebration of OHI’s 60th anniversary, the day highlighted the importance of bringing the outdoor hospitality community together and continuing the work that supports its future.
