Exploring the great outdoors in a group is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people, nourish existing relationships, and appreciate nature from a whole new perspective. Communities can act like ecosystems, which is what makes nature thrive after all.
There are, however, often barriers in place that can stop marginalised groups such as LGBTQ+ people from feeling included in these spaces. From stereotypes of ‘real hikers’ and concerns around safety on the trail, through to a lack of platforming of queer voices in the outdoor industry; LGBTQ+ folk haven’t always been made to feel welcome in outdoor spaces.
Nevertheless, in more recent years, we’ve seen a distinct increase in the number of LGBTQ+ outdoor groups surfacing in the public eye. Whilst the majority of these organisations are new, some actually date back as far as 1974, but have been able to resurface and expand thanks to the wonders of the internet, and the age of social media.
Connecting people across towns, boroughs, and beyond; these organisations are doing a phenomenal job at helping create a more inclusive and representative environment in the outdoor world. This includes subcultures such as surfing, hiking, cycling and more. So, we’ve gathered a list of just some of these groups here, with hopefully lots more to add in the future.
With that in mind, if you have more recommendations, or are part of an organisation that would like to be included here, please let us know at support@wildbounds.com.
Many of these organisations are also charities and rely on donations, so please support them if you are able to. Alternatively, give them a follow and help spread the word!
Based primarily in the north of England, Queer Out Here is a community organisation for ‘queer, trans, non-binary, genderqueer, gay, lesbian, bi, asexual, intersex, pansexual and everything in between people.’ From Cheshire to the Peaks to West Yorkshire, and with a focus on hiking, Queer Out Here organises some epic walks in some spectacular locations. Just this year they led a successful group trip up Helvellyn in the Lake District in some pretty challenging conditions. queerouthere.co.uk
Queer Surf Club is a community of LGBTQ+ surfers from all around the UK (and beyond). With meet-ups in Wales, Cornwall, Bristol and more, they operate both as a surf school and as a hub for existing surfers to meet like-minded individuals. The focus is more on community building than your experience level, so people of all levels are welcome. Check out their website if you fancy joining their Slack chat and getting involved. queersurfclub.com
Set up by Tessa and Sami from Ulverston, Lakes Queer Adventurers is a Cumbria-based adventure group for LGBTQIA+ people to come together in the glorious Lake District. From swimming, football and paddle boarding, to rounders, hiking and rock climbing; there’s a little something for everyone to get involved in here. They also have a sister group called Peaks Queer Adventures based in the Peak District. linktr.ee/lakesqueeradventures
As you might have guessed, Queer Hiking Bristol is a walking group set up for queer people based in and around Bristol. Self-described as a ‘safe place to get muddy and run away from cows’, they also lead foraging walks, weekend trips away, and more recently, therapeutic nature connection workshops. eventbrite.co.uk/queer-hiking-bristol
Based on the magnificent Emerald Isle, Wet and Wild Sports Club is Ireland’s largest and only (that we know of) LGBTQ+ outdoor adventure group. Including hiking, swimming, cycling, bouldering and more; Wet and Wild run some stunning activities in and around the area of Dublin. Most recently, they led a camping trip to Doolin, County Clare, visiting the iconic cliffs of Moher and the Ailwee caves. meetup.com/wetandwild
OutdoorLads is the UK’s largest outdoor activities group for gay, bi and trans men. They organise hikes all across the UK, ranging from leisure walks, lowland and hill walks, to mountain walks and winter alpine trekking. Beyond hiking, they also organise events for things like climbing, camping, biking, canoeing, scrambling, running and sailing, as well as purely social events. outdoorlads.com
The Queer Campfire is a weekend summer camp built to create a safe space for LGBTQIA+ women, trans and non-binary people in the world of camping. With queer-led workshops including pottery, life drawing, yoga, and performances from queer talent across the globe; it’s a jam-packed weekend with a diverse range of activities for everyone to get involved in. thequeercampfire.co.uk
Based in Wales, the Cardiff Queer Bike Gang organise monthly cycle rides for queer people of all experiences. They are proudly trans-run and also offer options for people who don’t own bikes to get involved too! facebook.com/cardiffqueerbikegang
Founded in 1974, the Gay Outdoor Club, though originating as a group for gay men, is an organisation for the LGBTQIA+ communities to come together and enjoy the great outdoors. It is a members’ club and a charity, and consists of 40 different factions throughout the UK. As the oldest LGBTQ+ outdoor club in the UK, there’s a pretty incredible history to explore here. goc.org.uk
Primarily based in Glasgow, Queer Climbing Scotland aims to make climbing more accessible to the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. With regular meet-ups at The Climbing Academy, they offer classes for all different levels, with a choice of sessions run with or without instructors. instagram.com/queerclimbingscotland
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