You Should Go: ‘The Outpost’ Is Look At Future Of Outdoors

‘The Outpost borrows as much from Burning Man as the aisles of an REI store.’

Our editor made the “Burning Man” observation last spring after three days in the desert near Joshua Tree. He’d just attended the so-called “anti-trade show” for a peek into what might prove the zeitgeist of the outdoors industry.

The Outpost, founded last year, is a multi-day trade event held around the U.S. It melds brands, culture, and the outdoors.

Next month the organization hosts its flagship gathering, Sept 8-10 in northern California. GearJunkie will exhibit at the event and our founder is hosting a session about blogging and journalism in the outdoors; see below for more info.

About 60 brands will show up, from Airstream to Asics, Chaco, Specialized, Smith Optics, and Bohemian Guitars. (See current list at bottom of the post.) The wide range of companies hints at the diversity on-site.

Activities from “redwood tree climbing” to falconry and river floats are offered to an expected 500 guests. It’s open to the public, and tickets are still on sale.

kayaking — Kayaking (in ORU foldable boats) was among the sessions at The Outpost; photo by Drew Kass

After the classes and free time during the day, participants dive into party mode. Bonfires are lit, and the stage lights turn on for the night.

Live Music, Big Acts

Live music is a big part of The Outpost, and for the event next month Scott Hansen of Grammy-nominated TYCHO is scheduled to play a DJ set. Other acts include Alex Cameron, Christopher Willits, and Animal Feelings.

photo by Mattlie Fanderson — photo by Matt Lief Anderson

GearJunkie At ‘The Outpost’

GearJunkie is a media partner with The Outpost this year. With that, we will play a bigger role, including hosting a live session on outdoors journalism.

This session with GearJunkie founder (and former New York Times journalist) Stephen Regenold will offer a hands-on workshop teaching about the tools and techniques used for outdoors journalism and blogging.

Outpost scene from New York event this summer; photo by Monica Semergiu

Get the full run-down here. The event takes place at Camp Navarro, about two hours north of the Bay Area. It’s an all-inclusive weekend that costs $850.

The price gets you lodging, food, drink, entertainment, sessions, and activities in and around the wild retreat.

–See all details at TheOutpost.us, and purchase a ticket for next month’s event on Eventbrite.