These born-and-raised Daytonians are passionate about the outdoors and want to encourage you to enjoy it as much as they do. 

Brycen and Claire Cross have lived their entire lives in Dayton. Claire is a photographer by trade while Brycen is a banking industry drop-out. Together, though, the couple shares an undying passion for adventure, community and the peace you find in nature. 

In an effort to bring a new generation of outdoor retail to downtown Dayton and help others realize the great things the Miami Valley has to offer, the Crosses launched the start-up movement Base Camp Outdoors Co.  

“Claire has a passion for all things Dayton and serving her neighbors,” says Brycen. “I left my job in the banking industry when I followed my sense of adventure to flee the 9-to-5 and follow my dream to be an encouragement and presence within the community.”  

At Base Camp Outdoors Co., the mission is to encourage and equip the community to engage more consciously with nature. “We believe that we can accomplish this mission by following these four paths, which we consider our foundational cornerstones: Adventure, Community, Education and Sustainability,” says Brycen.  

Outdoor adventurers will find well-made, sustainable and good-looking gear and accessories to help you enjoy the most of your experiences. “All of our branded apparel is designed and printed locally and intentionally created to enhance different outdoor lifestyles,” says Brycen. 

Also in the store are brands that serve a greater purpose, which Brycen says includes companies dedicated to taking care of the environment or giving back to their community. “We strive to highlight aesthetic and purpose by balancing trusted techniques and innovative activities that are most prevalent in the Dayton area — from hiking, walking and paddling to gardening, outdoor dining and urban exploration.”  

At its core, the team and couple behind Base Camp Outdoors Co. believes that the outdoors are for everyone. “From the porch sitter to the mountain climber, we believe there is a path for everyone to find their next adventure and go after it,” adds Brycen.  

You can find Base Camp Outdoors Co. in the Water Street District of downtown Dayton. Learn more about Base Camp Outdoors Co. at its website. You can also follow along on Facebook and Instagram.