Your favorite Dayton Dragons tailgate of the summer is back! The free, family fun starts at 5:30pm with live performances, raffles, outdoor games, inflatables, free goodies and more. 

Water Street District’s family-friendly “Party at the Plaza” series returns on Friday, May 3. Hosted in partnership with Dayton Dragons and presented by Water Street District, visitors are invited out for this free community event from 5:30-7:30PM. Party at the Plaza will take place outside of Day Air Ballpark prior to the Dragons taking on the West Michigan Whitecaps at 7:05PM.

The first Party at the Plaza event will be centered around the theme “Wild in Water Street District,” featuring a special appearance from Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live and the Madison Mohawk Steel Drum Band. Additional family-friendly activations include inflatables, the Dragons Green Team, Roofman, Pedal Wagon tours throughout Water Street District, raffle giveaways and more. See below for attending vendors.

Party at the Plaza vendors include:

-Base Camp Outdoors Co
-ReptiGirls Reptiles
-Honey Hill Farm
-Square One Salon
-Dayton Beer Company
-Downtown Dayton Partnership
-Winans Chocolates + Coffees
-Water Street District’s Pint Path Passport
-and more

Gear up for the Fun with Pit Viper!

Get ready to spread your wings and fly into the urban jungle with Base Camp Outdoors Co’s Urban Birdwatchers Club! This is a one of a kind club; all you have to do is show up. Meetings are not regular, attendance is not taken, and of course – there are no dues!

April 28th will be our inaugural meeting. If you’re in, join us at Branch and Bone Artisan Ales. Here’s what to expect:

Birds of a Feather: This is an amazing opportunity to meet new or old friends who share your interest in sustainable urban outdoor exploration.

What’s Blooming in Dayton: Base Camp Pop Up Starting at 3pm. An intimate opportunity to hear all about the progress towards Base Camp Dayton’s grand opening, including a small preview of some new gear we are excited to share with our community.

Birding Walk: Led by the one and only Sam Romeo of Aullwood Audubon. We’ll embark on a guided birding excursion through the charming South Park neighborhood and the beautiful Woodland Cemetery. We will depart Branch and Bone at 5pm, feel free to meet us at Woodland at 5:30 if you would prefer to limit your steps. Get your binoculars ready, because we’re about to spot some avian celebrities!

Cheers! Cheers! After our exciting expedition, it’s time to unwind and clink glasses at Branch and Bone. Share your favorite bird sightings, swap stories, and let’s raise a toast to our newfound feathered friends!

So spread your wings and join us for a night of birding bliss and brews! Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just dipping your talons in the aviary waters, all are welcome to flock together at Base Camp Outdoors Co’s Urban Birdwatchers Club Kickoff Party!

RSVP is not required, but we would love to know who to expect. Let us know using the below form if you plan on flying by.

This is not a drill! It’s really happening–Base Camp Outdoors Co. is officially making the big move out of our basement and into a beautiful brick-and-mortar location in the vibrant Water Street District of downtown Dayton. We’re so excited about this move–and even more big things are in motion for our business this year. As lifelong Daytonians, we love this city and all it has to offer. We’ve been so inspired by the renaissance of small businesses in the area and the vibrancy and walkability of Dayton’s downtown, and we can’t wait for Base Camp to be part of that!

We know you’re as excited as we are, but before we share all the details, let’s take a stroll down memory lane so you can see how we got here.

The Power of Love

Brycen (President/CEO and Dad-About-Town) and Claire (VP and Professional Bandana Wearer) met at a young age, fell in love, and tied the knot. They’d grown up in the greater Dayton area, but when it came time to choose a home of their own, they knew that they wanted to settle in the city. They bought a house in the Walnut Hills neighborhood and looked forward to raising their kids amid the creativity, inclusion, and uniqueness they’d come to love so much about Dayton. 

They dreamed of having the time and energy to connect more with the Dayton community, but like so many people they felt tied to the traditional ideals of a steady job. However, as Dolly has taught us, the 9 to 5 is all takin’ and no givin’, and the grind soon caused their mental health to suffer. As they began to prioritize healing for themselves and their family, Claire and Brycen turned to travel and spending more time outdoors. 

Gradually the pieces started to fall into place–love for the Dayton community, a passion for the outdoors, the desire to break out of the cycle and go after a new dream–and Base Camp was born. Life’s too short, they thought. If not now, when?

Cut to September 2022: Brycen had just quit his job, and Base Camp wasn’t much more than a dream. He and Claire were enjoying the patio at Moeller Brew Barn when they realized the incredible potential of the building next door. That spark turned into months of daydreaming about the possibilities, followed by more months of establishing the Base Camp brand and figuring out a plan to make that dream a reality. 

Working with the Dayton Site Seeker program, a resource for local businesses looking for office and retail space downtown, Claire and Brycen saw a lot of potential homes for Base Camp, some good, some not so good. But no matter where they went, they couldn’t stop thinking about that space next to Moeller. 

It was a long shot at best to think that they’d ever secure that building, but…

They did it! Months of working and dreaming and planning have paid off. Oh and lots of blood, sweat, and tears. (Seriously, lots.) Through it all, Team Base Camp has been propelled forward by our excitement and conviction that this dream of ours is going to grow into something amazing. We are over the moon that Base Camp will open in our dream location later this year.

Back to the Future

• A big grand opening party
• Shopping for fun and funky outdoor gear and merch
• An environment where you’re encouraged to come as you are
• Collaborations with bakers, makers, and educators
• And much, much more!

Did we mention Base Camp’s new space is right across the street from Day Air Ballpark, home of the Dayton Dragons?! We can’t wait to roll up the windows across the front of the building and enjoy the sights and sounds of baseball. Grab a drink at Moeller and come enjoy the game with us–we’re part of downtown Dayton’s new, expanded DORA!

We hope you’re as excited as we are about all of the big things happening for Base Camp. In addition to this big move to our brick-and-mortar location, we are looking forward to continuing to cultivate a community of adventure seekers here in Dayton. Dayton’s incredible outdoor spaces–from parks to trails to gardens–have provided the Base Camp family with endless hours of enjoyment and connection to nature, and our mission is to encourage and equip others to connect consciously with nature as well. 

Above all, we hope that our story will inspire you to set your sights on a dream and go after it. We’ll see you downtown this summer!

🌟 Exciting Adventure Awaits at The Adventure Summit! 🌄

Join us for an unforgettable experience at the Wright State University Student Union, thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts will come together to celebrate the spirit of adventure! 🚀

🏕️ Base Camp will be set up in the Adventure Summit Expo, Friday and Saturday, Feb 9-10. Be sure to stop by between speakers and chat with us about ways to identify your next adventure and Go After It! As always, we will be featuring our Dayton-centric merch, unique gear for your urban outdoor adventures, and promoting the Outdoors for Everyone. We’d love to meet you, and introduce you to some of our friends that make us proud to be in Dayton, the outdoor adventure capital of the Midwest.

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🌍 About The Adventure Summit: The Adventure Summit is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together adventurers, explorers, and outdoor lovers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to ignite your passion for the great outdoors, this summit has something for everyone.

🏞 Why Attend:

1. Inspiring Speakers: Immerse yourself in captivating tales of adventure from renowned speakers who have conquered the world’s most challenging terrains.
2. Interactive Clinics and Competitions: Learn valuable outdoor skills, from rock climbing to mountain biking techniques, through hands-on workshops led by experts in the field.
3. Gear Showcase: Connect with local and regional outdoor organizations at the Gear Expo, where these top tier exhibitors will showcase their innovations to help with your next expedition.
4. Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for adventure, creating lasting friendships and potential adventure buddies.

Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your outdoor experience, gain new skills, and connect with a community of fellow adventurers. 🏔

🌟 Exciting Adventure Awaits at The Adventure Summit! 🌄

Join us for an unforgettable experience at the Wright State University Student Union, thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts will come together to celebrate the spirit of adventure! 🚀

🏕️ Base Camp will be set up in the Adventure Summit Expo, Friday and Saturday, Feb 9-10. Be sure to stop by between speakers and chat with us about ways to identify your next adventure and Go After It! As always, we will be featuring our Dayton-centric merch, unique gear for your urban outdoor adventures, and promoting the Outdoors for Everyone. We’d love to meet you, and introduce you to some of our friends that make us proud to be in Dayton, the outdoor adventure capital of the Midwest.

---

🌍 About The Adventure Summit: The Adventure Summit is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together adventurers, explorers, and outdoor lovers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to ignite your passion for the great outdoors, this summit has something for everyone.

🏞 Why Attend:

1. Inspiring Speakers: Immerse yourself in captivating tales of adventure from renowned speakers who have conquered the world’s most challenging terrains.
2. Interactive Clinics and Competitions: Learn valuable outdoor skills, from rock climbing to mountain biking techniques, through hands-on workshops led by experts in the field.
3. Gear Showcase: Connect with local and regional outdoor organizations at the Gear Expo, where these top tier exhibitors will showcase their innovations to help with your next expedition.
4. Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for adventure, creating lasting friendships and potential adventure buddies.

Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your outdoor experience, gain new skills, and connect with a community of fellow adventurers. 🏔

Base Camp Outdoors Co and Mission of Mary Cooperative are thrilled to invite you to an unforgettable Open Fire Cookout, where the warmth of community and the aroma of delicious food come together under the open sky!

🔥 Event Highlights:

• Eat: Bring your favorite dish to share and enjoy a spread of mouthwatering creations. Immerse yourself in the joys of open fire cooking; including live demonstrations of tools and techniques. We’ve invited some special guests to showcase their favorite recipes, share tips, and answer your burning culinary questions!
• Learn: Mission of Mary Cooperative is a catalyst and partner for sustainable urban development in Dayton, Ohio. Learn how they are investing in the inner east side of Dayton by transforming vacant land plots into vegetable gardens and partnering with neighbors to sustainably develop our community.
• Experience: Check out the fresh-sap syrup boil, nature walk, native plants, urban farm facilities, and more going on at the Mission of Mary Headquarters.
• Connect: Gather around the fire, share ideas, and connect with fellow Daytonians. The unique facilities at Mission of Mary will provide the perfect backdrop for building new friendships and strengthening old bonds.
• Enjoy: Join us for a chance to snag some amazing prizes including gift cards and outdoor cooking gear.

🍽 What to Bring:

• Your favorite dish to prepare and share (enough for a few hungry adventurers!)
• Camp chairs or blankets for comfortable seating
• Bring your own plate and utensils to help make this a Waste Free Event!
• Your adventurous spirit and a hearty appetite!

🎟 RSVP Today:

This Open Fire Cookout is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Join us for a day filled with good food, enriching experiences, and the warmth of community. Syrup boil and education opportunities will run all day. Please RSVP below if you plan to join us for the meal at 5.

🔗 Event Partners:

• Base Camp Outdoors Co
• Mission of Mary Cooperative

The FUN starts tomorrow at 11am!

We can’t wait to share the weekend with you! Be sure to gather those items that need mending so Marie B. Mobile Mending can stitch your favorite things back into repair!

Come visit our booth to learn about Base Camp Outdoors Co, shop our funky merch and even try a relaxing arts and crafts project!

We’ve LOVED connecting and engaging with all of you over these past few months! It’s been amazing to share in the excitement for a local independent outdoor retailer in Dayton. We are working to make that a reality, but our vision for this building is so much MORE than just a “Mom + Pop” shopping experience.

We are making strides everyday toward bringing even more Adventure, Community, Education, and Sustainability to our city.

Every purchase and preorder helps us get closer to this goal. A big thank you to all of you who have chosen to join us on this journey!

All our love, B+C

Tomfoolery Outdoors is taking over the riverfront in Downtown Dayton to host Float Shows! Giant paddleboards make the perfect floating stage and your invited to join our paddle party! Our regions finest and most adventurous musicians will take the stage. Bring your kayak, SUP or canoe and join us on Tuesday nights in August and early September. What a perfect way to enjoy a hot summer night in Dayton, Ohio. Enjoy live music from your vessel, paddle under the fountains and make friends!

Boat Options:

• Rent a kayak! We are partnering with Taiters Kayak Solutions to offer rentals each Tuesday. Contact Shaun Tait at 937-716-5091 availability. $30 rental fee
• Rent a giant paddleboard built for up to five people. $150 rental fee.
• Bring your own canoe, kayak or paddleboard. Deliver boat to water street and Taiters Kayak Solution will transport it to the Great Miami River. $10 transport fee.
• Bring your own canoe, kayak or paddleboard and haul boat on your own to Great Miami River.

Parking – You are on your own! Park nearby Riverscape MetroPark or Deeds Point in a public parking area then carry your vessel and gear to the riverbank.

Shows are FREE but donations/tips are accepted for staff and musicians. Lineup sponsored by Base Camp Outdoor Co. will be announced soon for August 22, 29 and September 5. A wide range of musical genres will be showcased. Please note all guests must wear a lifejacket and alcohol is not permitted on any public waterway.
PLEASE NOTE TUBES ARE NOT PERMITTED ON THE RIVER IN DOWNTOWN DAYTON, OH

Massive thanks to our partners Taiters Kayak Solutions, Tomfoolery Outdoors and Trailblazing Hope Outdoors

Introducing: “A Very Dayton Bandana”

You may have seen us tease it, but it’s official time to fill you in on Dayton’s funkiest collaboration!

Base Camp Outdoors Co and Sugar Camp have come together to bring you something absolutely whimsical and delightfully Dayton. Inspired by vintage souvenir scarves and textiles from the 50’s and 60’s, this loose, Scandinavian, hand-drawn art is light hearted and wonderfully nostalgic. Infused with hidden gems of Dayton’s rich narrative, it’s a practical souvenir with a playful twist.

This bandana embodies the unity of art, adventure, and community that makes Dayton shine. A symbol of audacious dreams, daring innovation, and outdoor exploration, it’s a treasure that encapsulates the heart of Sugar Camp and Base Camp Outdoors Co.

Wear it proudly or keep its vibrant allure tucked away, a personal reminder to “Go After It.” Either way, you’ll be Looking Cool!

The “Riverscape” color-way includes:

Golden Hour, Coneflower Pink, and

Gem City Teal.

Available August 22nd 2023