About Basecamp
A bridge-building conference for outdoor recreation professionals, academics, and gateway community leaders.
Basecamp brings together land managers, community leaders, researchers, tourism professionals, and partner organizations to develop practical strategies for the future of outdoor recreation in the American West.
Mission and Vision
Mission
Strengthen the capacity of communities, agencies, and partners through shared learning, applied science, and collaborative planning.
Vision
A West where outdoor recreation sustains public lands, strengthens communities, improves visitor experiences, and supports long-term well-being.
What Makes Basecamp Different
It's not just a conference. It's a working gathering.
Basecamp is designed for conversation, connection, and applied problem solving.
Conference + Workshop
Participants learn from experts and work together on real challenges.
Western Focus
The program is grounded in Western landscapes, communities, and public lands.
Cross-Sector Learning
Basecamp connects agencies, communities, researchers, nonprofits, and tourism partners.
Practical Outcomes
Attendees leave with stronger relationships, clearer strategies, and usable tools.
Why It Matters
Outdoor recreation is changing. Communities and land managers need innovative solutions.
Basecamp helps participants connect recreation management, tourism development, community planning, and public land stewardship in ways that lead to more durable decisions.
Who Basecamp Is For
People working at the intersection of outdoor recreation, tourism, public land management, and community development.
Outdoor Recreation Managers
Gateway Community Leaders
State, Local, and Tribal Officials
Tourism and Economic Development Professionals
Researchers, Educators, and Students
Nonprofits, Businesses, and Partners
Our Approach
Learn. Connect. Apply.
Learn
Hear from researchers, practitioners, and community leaders.
Connect
Build relationships across sectors, places, and institutions.
Apply
Turn ideas into strategies for planning, management, and stewardship.
Place-Based
Grounded in the places where recreation and community change are happening.
Each Basecamp gathering uses local examples to inform broader conversations across the West.
Hosted by the Institute of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism
Basecamp is a Utah State University program supporting informed decision-making for outdoor recreation and tourism across Utah and the Intermountain West.
