About Us
- Montana family owned
Our Story
Gear for the Great Outdoors for 50 + years
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 more.
In 2023, Scott and Deb Brown announced their retirement, passing the torch to their daughters, Cody and Lauren Brown. 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 is Montana’s premier outdoor specialty store, proudly serving the communities of Helena and Billings. As your trusted local source for clothing, footwear, outdoor gear, and Montana lifestyle gifts, we are dedicated to fueling the spirit of adventure across the Big Sky Country.
Montana family-owned and operated for more than five decades — and now proudly female-owned — The Base Camp is rooted in a deep passion for the outdoors and the communities we call home. As a locally owned small business, we are guided by integrity, connection, and a commitment to excellence, striving to deliver an exceptional level of service and a welcoming, thoughtful experience for every customer who walks through our doors.
Our mission is simple: to be your trusted destination for quality, thoughtfully selected outdoor apparel, footwear, gear and Montana gifts. We carefully curate products for those who feel most alive outside. Whether you’re exploring your favorite local trail, gathering around a campfire, or heading into the mountains for the weekend, we’re here to equip you with the essentials for the 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.
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.
Why Shop with Us
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.
- 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.