Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) supports Oklahoma public agencies and Tribal nations in acquiring and developing public outdoor recreation areas to meet recreation needs and protect resources.
Funder: Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department
Due Dates: December 8, 2026, 4:30 PM (Submission access request) | December 15, 2026, 4:30 PM (Full application)
Funding Amounts: No maximum funding cap; reimbursable 50/50 matching grant
Summary: Supports acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities in Oklahoma.
Key Information: Sponsors must commit funded property to public outdoor recreation use and stewardship in perpetuity.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) supports the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. The National Park Service (NPS) administers this federal assistance program, providing matching grants to states and, through states, to local governments. In Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD) administers the program through its Division of State Parks.
The program seeks to meet state, Tribal, and locally identified recreation needs, increase protected outdoor recreation resources, and encourage sound planning and long-term partnerships. Projects must address priorities in Oklahoma’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), although an approved local master plan documenting the proposed facility’s need may take priority. Oklahoma’s selection process also supports locally led conservation, parks in underserved communities, and Tribal priorities.
