Basecamp 7.0: Overlanding, Community, and Competition at PURE4x4’s Ultimate Gathering
Basecamp 7.0: Overlanding, Community, and Competition at PURE4x4’s Ultimate Gathering
Basecamp 7.0 was more than just an overlanding event; it was a pilgrimage for enthusiasts and gearheads alike. Set against the rugged beauty of Holcomb Valley Ranch in Big Bear, CA, the event brought together off-roaders and overlanders from all walks of life. This year, Basecamp expanded its offerings with day passes for the first time, and as expected, discounted presale tickets sold out fast—each one coming with a coveted Baja Designs x PURE4x4 “LUMEN HOUR” tee.
VIP pass holders, presented by Inspired Overland, were treated to exclusive goodie bags and a chance at a massive raffle, making the VIP experience truly one of a kind.
Choose Your Own Adventure: 500 Acres of Possibility
Basecamp wasn’t just about off-roading; it was about embracing the outdoors in your own way. With 500 acres to explore, attendees could hike, bike, or just kick back under the stars. The best part? You didn’t need a 4x4 to join the fun. From the off-road trails of Big Bear to the community-driven events at the Pavilion, there was something for everyone.
My Basecamp Experience: Family, Friends, and Firsts
Attending Basecamp this year was a bit of a challenge. My wife was in her third trimester, and we were about to welcome our third child. The dirt roads leading to Basecamp were tough for her, but we made it, and she was a trooper. For us, Basecamp is more than an event; it’s a family tradition. My kids got to see the products I’ve worked on all year, and I got to see the excitement on their faces as customers flocked to our booth.
This year, we had Jesse Rizo, our longtime supporter and overlanding guru, with us. Jesse’s brother-in-law, Geo, was also there, competing against me in the cooking contest. Geo got to try out our tactical camper, and he loved the simplicity of setting up camp in less than 90 seconds. But when it came to the contest, we were rivals. I cooked up a breakfast-inspired burger with sourdough, truffle cheddar, and bacon, while Geo brought his A-game. I tied for first against 714 Tires in the cooking portion, but the tiebreaker—a shotgun beer contest—didn’t go my way. 714 Tires had a secret weapon: a celebrity shotgunner who downed the beer faster than anyone could believe.
Surviving the Elements: The Tactical Camper's Big Test
At one point, Basecamp was hit with a heavy rainstorm. I was eager to see how our tactical camper would hold up. Jesse, ever the optimist, was confident it would stay dry inside. After an hour of rain, we checked, and sure enough, it was bone dry. Even Jesse’s $2,000 Jackery battery was safe and sound. To top it off, I pulled a few passersby to inspect the camper, and they confirmed it was holding up perfectly.
Overall, Basecamp 7.0 was a blast. My kids made new friends, and so did I. We cooked great food, hung out around the fire pit, and made memories that will last a lifetime.
Beyond the Product: Building a Community
Basecamp isn’t just about showcasing products; it’s about building a community. It’s a summit for vendors and customers alike to connect on a deeper level. Around the campfire, the lines between seller and buyer blur, replaced by a shared love for the road less traveled. When you attend Basecamp, you’re not just attending another expo with people trying to sell you cool gear —you’re joining a community of like-minded adventurers. And that’s what makes Basecamp so special.
Here’s to the memories we made at Basecamp 7.0, and to the adventures yet to come. See you on the trails.