The Season of Service

Giving Back Through the Great Outdoors

By Sherry Bruner

As we approach the holidays and snow begins to dust the trails, Montanans are reminded that this season isn’t just about giving gifts — it’s also about giving back. In a state defined by its rugged beauty and fierce independence, Montanans are also quick to serve and step up to the plate when there is a need in their community. 

For nearly five decades, The Base Camp has embodied that spirit, connecting people not only to the outdoors but to one another through stewardship, community partnerships, and purpose.

Rooted in Community

Since opening in 1975, and recently celebrating its 50th year in business, The Base Camp has been more than a gear shop. With locations in Billings and Helena, it’s a cornerstone for adventurers, conservationists, and families who believe that the outdoors are best enjoyed — and preserved — together. 

Community and nature are deeply connected. When you care for one, you strengthen the other. Through partnerships with local nonprofits and its membership in 1% for the Planet, The Base Camp continually reinvests in the people and places that make Montana the great state it is and most importantly our home. 

1% for the Planet: Giving Where It Counts

As a member of 1% for the Planet, The Base Camp donates one percent of all sales annually to support environmental causes. That may sound small, but it adds up to a big impact, helping fund programs that protect wild lands, foster outdoor education, and sustain access to the places we love.

Each purchase made at The Base Camp contributes directly to preserving the very trails, rivers, and parks we all explore. Every backpack, jacket, and pair of boots sold helps protect the places where we adventure. It’s proof that mindful shopping can truly make a difference.

Local Partners Making a Difference

The Base Camp’s community partnerships showcase the many ways Montanans and The Base Camp give back, from building trails and supporting youth programs to keeping the arts alive. Each partnership reflects a different way of strengthening the fabric of our community, which is why you’ll see such a diverse group of partners that The Base Camp in Billings supports.  

Outdoor and Conservation Partners

• Billings TrailNet — Advocating for safe, accessible trails and bike paths that encourage active living in and around Billings. One of The BaseCamps biggest partners. 
• Wild Montana — Working to protect public lands and inspire a lifelong love of wilderness across the state. 
• Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Foundation — Engaging volunteers in stewardship and education to preserve one of Montana’s most treasured wild landscapes. Through trail work, youth and women’s programs, and wilderness outreach, ABWF ensures the Absaroka-Beartooth remains wild, healthy, and accessible for generations to come.

Arts and Culture

• Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale — Bringing world-class music and outreach programs to the community — a fondness of Scott and Deb Brown. You might have even caught Deb singing in the Chorale on occasion. 
• Babcock Theatre & Art House Cinema — Enriching Billings with independent film, storytelling, and cultural connection. The Babcock continues to partner with The BaseCamp during our annual Banff Film festival where all proceeds go to benefit TrailNet or another local organization. 

Youth and Community Engagement

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Yellowstone Valley — Providing safe spaces and empowering youth through mentorship and opportunity.

Recreation and Events

• Red Lodge Races and Whistle Pig Adventure Race — Encouraging friendly competition, teamwork, and exploration in the outdoors.
• Red Ants Pants Festival — Celebrating music, hard work, and community strength.
• Disc Golf Billings — Building connection through accessible, family-friendly recreation.

The Power of Shared Stewardship

For The Base Camp, service isn’t just about financial support — it’s about leading by example. Whether it’s helping at local events, or spreading awareness about conservation, the team at the Base Camp believes that small, consistent acts of stewardship create a ripple effect outward in a big way. 

It’s a reminder that giving back doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s as simple as showing up — with gloves, boots, and heart. 

How You Can Give Back This Season

This holiday season, The Base Camp encourages everyone to find their own way to give — in ways big or small, close to home or out in the wild. Giving back doesn’t always mean giving money — sometimes it’s simply showing up and lending your hands

1. Join a Local Event. Attend a Billings Symphony concert, sign up for a fun run, or cheer on participants at a local race. Your presence supports community vitality.

2. Lend a Hand Outdoors. Spend a Saturday helping with Billings TrailNet, Wild Montana, or ABWF — or simply pick up litter on your favorite trail. 

3. Support Youth Programs. Volunteer your time or talents with the Boys & Girls Club to help the next generation connect to the outdoors. Look for ski swaps early in the fall that support Silver Run Ski program. 

4. Celebrate Local Art and Culture. Visit some local theaters such as the Babcock Theatre, Alberta Bair Theatre, Art House Cinema & Pub, Billings Studio Theatre, and Nova Center for Performing Arts and share in entertainment and stories that can unite the community. 

5. Shop with Purpose. Every purchase at The Base Camp contributes to 1% for the Planet, making your holiday shopping doubly meaningful. Remember that when you shop locally your dollar can truly make a big impact for your community and not just to the business and its staff. 

The Heart of the Holidays, Montana Style

In Montana, service often looks like lacing up boots instead of dressing up for a gala, but we also do enjoy a good fundraiser! It’s neighbors coming together — hands in the dirt (or snow) — working towards something bigger than us.

For The Base Camp and its partners, that’s what the holiday spirit is all about: connection, stewardship, and gratitude for the land and community that sustains us. 

As you plan your winter adventures, remember that every step outdoors is an opportunity to give back — to the trails, the town, and the people who make this place feel like home.

Because in Montana, the season of service doesn’t end when the decorations come down.

It begins every time we step outside with purpose.

More from the Experts at The Base Camp 

About The Base Camp 

The Base Camp is Montana's premier outdoor store, serving the Billings and Helena communities for nearly five decades, providing high-quality clothing, footwear, outdoor equipment, and Montana lifestyle gifts. 

As a locally owned, family-run business passionate about the outdoors and our communities, we are dedicated to fueling the spirit of outdoor adventure and delivering superior service. Our mission is to be your go-to destination for your outdoor pursuits, equipping adventurers with essential gear for any journey. 

Beyond retail, The Base Camp fosters a community of outdoor enthusiasts, inspiring and supporting your love for nature with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Visit The Base Camp – where the spirit of the great outdoors comes to life, and your adventures begin.