Gearing you up for your
next adventure Since 1975

How it Started:

A proud Montana family-owned establishment since 1975, The Base Camp was founded by Scott Brown. Beginning as a pioneering backpacking store nestled off Last Chance Gulch in downtown Helena, it expanded to Billings in 1990. Originally catering to backpackers, our store has evolved alongside our loyal customer base, now offering a wide range of outdoor gear, apparel, footwear, camping equipment, Montana gifts, and morIn 2023, Scott and Deb Brown announced their retirement, passing the torch to their daughters, Cody and Lauren Brown, the original store owners. This exciting transition marks a new chapter for The Base Camp, upholding its legacy of providing top-notch outdoor gear while fostering a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts.

Gear for the Great Outdoors:

The Base Camp, Montana's premier outdoor store, serving the communities of Helena and Billings! As your local source for clothing, footwear, outdoor equipment, and Montana lifestyle gifts, we are dedicated to fueling the spirit of outdoor adventure.  We are a family-run small business for nearly five decades, is fundamentally driven by passion for the outdoors and our communities. Dedicated to upholding values of integrity, we are steadfast in delivering a superior level of service to our valued customers.

Our mission is to be your go-to destination for all things related to outdoor pursuits. We take pride in providing high-quality gear that caters to the needs of adventurers who are passionate about exploring the great outdoors. From the rugged terrains of your local trails to the majestic summits of Montana's mountains, we aim to equip you with the essentials for every journey.

Beyond being a retail space, The Base Camp is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for nature. Our curated selection of clothing, footwear, and equipment reflects our commitment to enhancing your outdoor experiences, whether it's a leisurely stroll or a challenging mountain expedition.

As proud members of the Helena and Billings communities, we're not just about selling gear; we're about inspiring and supporting your love for adventure. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to guide you in finding the perfect gear for your unique outdoor pursuits.

So, welcome to The Base Camp – where the spirit of the great outdoors comes to life. We're excited you're here, but our true joy lies in seeing you venture out and embrace the beauty of nature. Gear up with us, step outside, and let the adventures begin – because at The Base Camp, we're not just a store; we're your partner in outdoor exploration.

Rely on us for:

• Cutting-edge, dependable products from well-established and emerging brands as well as local Montana companies

• Customer-centric service that extends beyond your time in the store

• A team of knowledgeable and experienced members

• Philanthropic initiatives dedicated to supporting our community and advancing outdoor issues, advocacy, and access.

Grass Roots Outdoor Alliance:

We are proud members of Grass Roots Outdoor Alliance (GOA), a cohesive community of independent outdoor specialty retailers and brands that drives evolution within the outdoor industry.

104 retailers strong Grass Roots Outdoor Alliance build relationships with each other, and our vendor partners, through ideas, insights, shared data, exclusive buying opportunities, education, and a passion for creating memorable experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

GOA is a collaborative team, a thriving community, influencers in the industry, and a united voice as stewards of honorable business and preservation of the environment we all enjoy.