Celebrating the 5^th annual contest showcasing the diversity of outdoor recreation

Together with the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD), Aspira^® is proud to share the winners of the fifth annual America’s State Parks 2021 Photo Contest.

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Grand Prize photo located at Tishomingo State Park in Mississippi by Dean Schumacher (Photo: Business Wire)

The judging panel was inspired by over 10,000 entries representing five categories, including: Activities, Wildlife, Family & Friends, Camping, and Scenic & Seasons. Qualifying submissions were judged based on originality, artistic composition, technical quality, and whether or not the photograph showcases the best of America's State Parks camping and outdoor activities.

The grand prize winning photo was submitted by Dean Schumacher and highlighted a colorful autumn walk at Tishomingo State Park in Mississippi. He won this year’s Ultimate Grand Prize Package, provided by Aspira, including an Apex Club annual membership along with camping and recreational gear valued at $2,500. Each of the five honorable mention category winners received a $500 REI gift card.

“State Park visitation has grown tremendously this past year. The photo contest provided a forum for the public to share the diversity of safe outdoor recreation and affordable experiences. It was heartfelt to see so many people connect to nature and share positive memories on our state lands,” said Lewis Ledford, Executive Director at National Association of State Park Directors.

NASPD engaged its trusted partner, Aspira^®, to manage the operations and promotion for the contest. Aspira, the leading provider of technology and marketing services to park and conservation agencies across North America, leveraged its popular online outdoors marketplace, ReserveAmerica.com, to increase awareness of America’s State Parks photo contest.

“Aspira is proud to partner with NASPD and sponsor the photo contest for the fifth year in a row. It’s inspiring to see our communities come together safely and share how much they appreciate America’s State Parks, staff, and volunteers through visual stories. Congratulations to all the winners,” said Graham Ballbach, President, Parks & Wildlife at Aspira.

About NASPD

The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) is devoted to helping state park systems effectively manage and administer their state park system. The mission of the Association is to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance, as well as for their important contributions to the nation’s environment, heritage, health and economy. For more information, visit www.stateparks.org.

About Aspira

Aspira is the leading provider of systems and services that enable management of outdoor recreation resources. Our comprehensive suite of reservation and licensing technology and service solutions, including www.ReserveAmerica.com, are used by government and private entities across North America to enable consumers to research and reserve their next outdoor adventure, whether that be an overnight stay at a campground or obtaining a fishing or hunting permit or license. Aspira is headquartered in Dallas, TX with eight offices worldwide. For more information, visit www.AspiraConnect.com.

© 2021 Aspira and/or its affiliates and licensors. All rights reserved.

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