Located along the Spirit Lake Highway on the shores of Silver Lake on the way to Mount St. Helens, the Silver Lake Resort has announced its commitment to foster inclusivity and a welcoming environment for all outdoor recreational enthusiasts by partnering with Black Folks Camp Too.
The resort has attained Black Folks Camp Too’s Unity Blaze Certification, which means Silver Lake Resort staff are being educated about historical, cultural and social barriers that have contributed to low outdoor recreation participation rates amongst Black Americans and other people of color, according to a news release from the resort.
“We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the beauty and joy of nature,” Silver Lake Resort proprietor Alan Kahn said in the release. “By embracing the principles of the Unity Blaze Certification, we are creating a space where all visitors feel welcome, valued and empowered to enjoy the great outdoors.”
With Black Folks Camp Too’s continued education support, Silver Lake Resort staff are committed to expanding the resort’s outreach and engagement efforts with underrepresented communities.
According to a 2024 KOA camping and outdoor hospitality report, 77% of campers last year were white, compared to only 12% who were Black.
“We are excited to partner with Silver Lake Resort in our mission to foster unity in the outdoor community and beyond,” Black Folks Camp Too founder and President Earl B. Hunter Jr. said in the release. “Together, we are changing the world, one campfire at a time.”
On top of working to create a more welcoming environment to underrepresented communities and continuing staff education at Silver Lake Resort, the resort will also continue to pursue more strategic partnerships with other organizations dedicated to increasing diversity in outdoor recreation.
Black Folks Camp Too is a nationwide marketing-driven business that aims to increase diversity in the outdoor industry by making it easier for previously underrepresented communities to get involved with in the camping world.
Currently, 366 campgrounds, conservancies, concessionaires, outfitters, outdoor educators, retailers, state parks, camps and other camping industry partners nationwide are Unity Blaze Certified, according to Black Folks Camp Too’s website.
To learn more about Black Folks Camp Too, visit https://www.blackfolkscamptoo.com/.
Originally opened in 1955, Silver Lake Resort offers a variety of accommodations, including lakeside cabins, motel rooms, and RV and tent spaces with access to fishing and boating on Silver Lake, along with scenic views of Mount St. Helens.
Silver Lake Resort is located at 3201 Spirit Lake Highway. For more information, visit https://silverlake-resort.com/.
