Oregon’s parks have always been full of stories told in the rush of rivers, the sway of old-growth forests, and the quiet moments that stay with us long after we head home. This month, Oregon State Parks is inviting young storytellers to add their voices to that landscape through the Oregon State Parks’ Youth Audio Story Contest, a new opportunity for youth to share their creativity, imagination, and personal connections to the outdoors.
The contest celebrates the wonder of Oregon’s natural spaces, with a special spotlight on Oregon state parks in the Columbia River Gorge, a place rich in beauty, history, and cultural significance. Whether it’s a favorite trail, a memory of spotting wildlife, a moment of awe on a family camping trip, or a wild tale inspired by the forest, this is a youth’s chance to bring that experience to life.
A story that travels far
One winning story will be selected to represent youth voices in the Accessible Gorge Audio Trails project. The storyteller’s voice will be featured on an actual hiking trail in the Columbia River Gorge and shared on the Accessible Gorge website, meaning visitors from around the world will hear and enjoy a young Oregonian’s perspective.
Who can participate
The contest is open to youth ages 6–17, and entries may be submitted individually or in small groups of up to three. Stories must be original and narrated by the youth participants themselves. Submissions can be adventurous, heartfelt, funny, reflective, or completely imaginative. What matters most is authenticity and a connection to nature. Stories must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian.
How to share your story
Participants can record their story on a phone, tablet, or computer. Audio files up to three minutes long are preferred (MP3, WAV, AVI, MOV, MP4, MPG, and WMV up to 30MB), though written stories in PDF format are also accepted. Each audio entry should begin with the storyteller’s first name and the story title, and soft sound effects may be added if they enhance the listening experience.
Stories can be submitted online or dropped off in person at Rooster Rock State Park, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.. Each entry should include the participant’s name, age, story title, and a brief description of the story.
What judges are listening for
A panel of Oregon State Parks education staff and project partners will evaluate entries based on four key elements:
Why it matters
Storytelling is one of the oldest ways we connect with the world around us. By encouraging youth to share their experiences and ideas, Oregon State Parks hopes to inspire a new generation of outdoor stewards, youth who feel seen, heard, and connected to the places that make Oregon special.
Submissions are due by Friday, February 20, at 11:59 p.m. PST, and the winner will be announced February 28 by email, and the winning entry will she shared on Oregon State Parks' website.
Official rules
To keep the contest fair and fun, all participants must follow these guidelines:
Storytelling tips for young creators
Great stories come from curiosity, imagination, and personal experience. Here are some ideas to help young storytellers get started: