Top 20 Independent Outdoor Retailers in North Carolina

North Carolina's diverse landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Coast, make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into hiking, camping, biking, or water sports, having access to quality gear is essential. Here are the top 20 independent outdoor retailers in North Carolina, offering everything you need for your next adventure.

1. Backcountry & Beyond

Location: Salisbury, NC
Website: Backcountry & Beyond
Description: Located in the heart of Salisbury, Backcountry & Beyond specializes in gear for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and more. Their knowledgeable staff is passionate about the outdoors and ready to help you find the perfect equipment.
History: Founded in 2017 by two outdoor enthusiasts, the store quickly became a go-to spot for high-quality gear and expert advice.

2. Great Outdoor Provision Co.

Location: Multiple locations across NC including Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Charlotte
Website: Great Outdoor Provision Co.
Description: This retailer offers a vast selection of gear for hiking, camping, fishing, and paddling. Known for their exceptional customer service, they also provide educational programs and events to inspire and educate outdoor enthusiasts.
History: Established in 1972, Great Outdoor Provision Co. has been a staple in the North Carolina outdoor community for decades.

3. Black Dome Mountain Sports

Location: Asheville, NC
Website: Black Dome Mountain Sports
Description: Nestled in Asheville, Black Dome Mountain Sports provides top-tier gear for climbing, hiking, and skiing. They pride themselves on their knowledgeable staff and extensive selection of outdoor equipment.
History: Serving the Asheville area since 1984, Black Dome Mountain Sports has become a beloved retailer for local adventurers.

4. Outdoor 76

Location: Franklin and Cherokee, NC
Website: Outdoor 76
Description: Outdoor 76 is a full-service outdoor retailer offering gear for hiking, running, and climbing. They also have an in-house taproom, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel after a day of adventure.
History: Founded in 2010, Outdoor 76 quickly gained a reputation for their expert staff and vibrant community involvement.

5. Mast General Store

Location: Multiple locations including Boone, Asheville, and Waynesville
Website: Mast General Store
Description: A historic retailer, Mast General Store offers a blend of outdoor gear and nostalgic merchandise. Their wide selection includes clothing, camping gear, and footwear, making it a one-stop-shop for all your outdoor needs.
History: Established in 1883, Mast General Store has been serving North Carolinians for over a century, combining traditional charm with modern outdoor gear.

6. Diamond Brand Outdoors

Location: Arden and Asheville, NC
Website: Diamond Brand Outdoors
Description: Diamond Brand Outdoors provides a comprehensive selection of gear for hiking, camping, and paddling. They are known for their high-quality products and commitment to customer satisfaction.
History: Since opening in 1964, Diamond Brand has been a trusted name in outdoor retail, offering both gear and local expertise.

7. Townsend Bertram & Company

Location: Carrboro, NC
Website: Townsend Bertram & Company
Description: This family-owned retailer specializes in sustainable and eco-friendly outdoor gear. They offer a wide range of products for camping, hiking, and travel, with a focus on community and environmental stewardship.
History: Established in 1988, Townsend Bertram & Company has been a pioneer in promoting sustainable outdoor practices.

8. Footsloggers

Location: Boone and Blowing Rock, NC
Website: Footsloggers
Description: Footsloggers is a comprehensive outdoor retailer offering gear for hiking, camping, and climbing. They also provide a climbing tower at their Boone location, adding an interactive element to their store.
History: Founded in 1971, Footsloggers has been a fixture in the High Country's outdoor community, known for their expertise and extensive gear selection.

9. Rock/Creek Outfitters

Location: Asheville, NC
Website: Rock/Creek Outfitters
Description: Specializing in high-quality gear for climbing, paddling, and hiking, Rock/Creek Outfitters offers top brands and expert advice. They are committed to supporting conservation efforts and outdoor education.
History: Established in 1987 in Chattanooga, Rock/Creek expanded to Asheville to serve the vibrant outdoor community there.

10. River Ratz Outfitters

Location: Sylva, NC
Website: River Ratz Outfitters
Description: River Ratz Outfitters offers gear for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect equipment for your river adventures.
History: Established in 2010, this family-owned store has become a favorite among water sports enthusiasts.

11. Half-Moon Outfitters

Location: Greenville, NC
Website: Half-Moon Outfitters
Description: Half-Moon Outfitters provides gear for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and kayaking. They focus on high-quality products and exceptional customer service.
History: Since 1993, Half-Moon Outfitters has been serving the outdoor community with a commitment to sustainability and local engagement.

12. D.D. Bullwinkel's Outdoors

Location: Brevard, NC
Website: D.D. Bullwinkel's Outdoors
Description: Located in the heart of Brevard, D.D. Bullwinkel's offers a wide range of outdoor gear for hiking, camping, and fishing. They also have a selection of local crafts and gifts.
History: Established in 1994, the store has become a cornerstone of the Brevard outdoor community.

13. Highland Outfitters

Location: Highlands, NC
Website: Highland Outfitters
Description: Highland Outfitters offers gear for hiking, camping, and fly fishing. Their knowledgeable staff and high-quality products make them a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
History: Founded in 2001, they have been serving the Highlands area with dedication and expertise.

14. River Runner Outdoor Center

Location: Columbia, SC
Website: River Runner Outdoor Center
Description: River Runner specializes in gear for paddling, kayaking, and canoeing. They also offer guided trips and rentals.
History: Serving the paddling community since 1998, they are a trusted source for water sports gear and expertise.

15. Adventure Outfitters

Location: Marion, NC
Website: Adventure Outfitters
Description: Adventure Outfitters provides gear for hiking, camping, and climbing. They focus on high-quality products and excellent customer service.
History: Established in 2005, they have become a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts in the Marion area.

16. Great Outdoor Adventure Store

Location: Greensboro, NC
Website: Great Outdoor Adventure Store
Description: This retailer offers a wide selection of gear for hiking, camping, and cycling. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the right equipment for your adventures.
History: Since 1999, they have been serving the Greensboro community with quality gear and expert advice.

17. Carolina Mountain Sports

Location: Statesville, NC
Website: Carolina Mountain Sports
Description: Specializing in gear for hiking, camping, and fly fishing, Carolina Mountain Sports offers a variety of products and expert advice.
History: Serving the outdoor community since 2000, they are known for their friendly staff and high-quality gear.

18. Hook, Line & Paddle

Location: Wilmington, NC
Website: Hook, Line & Paddle
Description: This retailer specializes in kayak fishing gear and accessories. They also offer guided fishing trips and rentals.
History: Established in 2001, Hook, Line & Paddle has become a go-to spot for kayak anglers in the Wilmington area.

19. Mount Mitchell Outfitters

Location: Burnsville, NC
Website: Mount Mitchell Outfitters
Description: Located near the tallest peak east of the Mississippi, Mount Mitchell Outfitters provides gear for hiking, camping, and fishing.
History: Founded in 2002, they have been serving the outdoor community with dedication and expertise.

20. Triangle Rock Club

Location: Morrisville, NC
Website: Triangle Rock Club
Description: While primarily a climbing gym, Triangle Rock Club also offers a selection of climbing gear for purchase. They provide a great space for indoor climbing and expert advice on gear.
History: Established in 2007, Triangle Rock Club has grown into a premier climbing facility and gear provider.

Conclusion

North Carolina's rich outdoor culture is well-supported by these top-notch independent retailers. Whether you're gearing up for a hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains or a paddling trip along the coast, these stores offer everything you need to make your adventure successful and memorable. For more detailed information on gear, adventure providers, and other resources, visit the Outdoor Adventures Connection website at www.outdooradventures.pro. Happy adventuring!