Last December, I got a fabulous, last minute invite to meet friends in Vermont/New HamphHampshireire. I was excited to go, but didn't have any cold weather gear! Ninety minutes before I had to check for my flight, I visited the Park Road store with my empty roller bag. The store had good selections and Caroline, my favorite staffer, stepped up to work her magic . After an intensive hour of sorting options, I had a stellar collection of nicely fitting gear from head to toe. Our selections worked great for my winter trip and I'm still enjoying my gear. Heartfelt kudos to Caroline and the entire team at Great Outdoor Provisions. I can't imagine any other place in Charlotte where pro staff would gear me up with humor and brisk purpose. Thanks for making my crazy shopping surge, fast, fun, friendly and laser focused. With warm appreciation, Lee read more

Outside is a rugged looking storefront, walk inside it's a cabin lodge, squeaking wood plank floor and everything except a huge fire place. They have lots of things including fly fishing, backpacks, rock climbing, kayaking and more. Lots of outdoor clothes and footwear. read more

This place is both the stuff of my dreams and credit card nightmares. Awesome vibe inside, and lots of great products to choose from. I primarily hike and backpack, and I was looking for a replacement sleeping pad (mine was patched a few too many times) and lost long-handled spork. I found the team at GOP to be very helpful and knowledgeable. One of their gear guys listened to my needs, led me back to the display of sleeping pads (all blown up), and encouraged me to try it out. We moved a few camp chairs to make a clearing, and I laid three of the pads out to try. Then I tried deflating and re-inflating each one a few times. When I narrowed down my options, another team member who was more familiar with the pad I selected came over to join us and answer my questions about its durability and valve. He talked a bit about his AT thru-hike (during which he used the pad) and we ended up talking gear for a good 15 minutes, during which he gave some excellent recommendations that will likely help me shave a few more ounces off my pack weight without spending nearly as much as I spent on my new sleeping pad. I was grateful for the help and the discussion and will happily return here next time I'm in town and preparing for a long-distance backpacking trip. read more

Overjoyed, informed and confident in all my purchases here! From clothing, to shoes, to my hobie cat Kayak--I have always left here more informed, and ecstatic at the customer service. I'll admit that I had crossed over to REI for a couple of years because of the 10% back, however 10% is a small price to pay to be sure I'm getting the right equipment from people who actually know what they are talking about and are excited to talk to you about your sports or needs. My favorite associate is Rudy. His dry sense of humor, attention to details and his willingness to stay at work a little late for me today because I was running behind makes me want shout from the rooftops that customer service isn't dead. Thank you Great Outdoor Provision for being exactly who and what you are! read more

Great Outdoor Provision - Kayak - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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As a newbie at transporting my kayak on my roof for long distances, I ran into a few problems. I walked into this store, explained my problem, and the gentleman (owner, I believe?) said 'let's go look'. In 10 minutes I learned that while we had done pretty darn well, there were some tips and tricks to make what we had even better. He didn't try to sell me anything, just rigged what we had to work. Exceptional service!! Can't recommend this store enough! Of course we went back in and bought some treats from this excellently stocked store. Best retail experience I can remember!! read more

Great Outdoor Provision - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Friendly, knowledgeable, helpful. Good choice of merchandise. Easy access. Great location.

I was very pleased to find this store. Now I know there are many stores like this in the area. What I liked about this place was the staff. I was looking for hiking shoes and I was helped by a cool dude name Mac. Super cool. Super Knowledgeable. Great selections as well. read more

Was so pleased with my experience last time, I came back with a friend in tow. I also brought back my ankle-high boots which, per the store's recommendation, I had worn around the house a bit but never taken outside. The staff of four was, well, understaffed, given how many people wanted their attention and help, but they were helpful and as attentive as they could be given the demand. They also exchanged my boots, no questions, for the normal-cut version, even though I didn't bring the box or the receipt with me (just the shoes). All they needed was my loyalty number which is my phone number so I actually had that with me! read more

Definitely a hidden gem. I happened upon this place when I was searching for the popular "five finger" shoes that are manufactured by Vibram. At the time (this was about a year ago) stores were selling out and couldn't keep them in stock. Not sure if they have that problem any more, but I really lucked out the day I visited this place. They had about 2 pairs left and one was my size! The store clerk that helped me out was very nice and very knowledgeable about the product. Apparently these shoes have been around for a while for boaters and hikers alike, they've just recently started into the running industry - jury is still out, but I see people in races with five fingers more often as time passes. Aside from their unique shoe selection, they have a variety of other items for kayaking, hiking, fishing, camping.... Really just an all around cool store to come in and browse every once in a while. Oh it also looked like they had a good section of travel guides, maps, and books to help any adventurer enjoy the outdoors. read more

Lots of equipment for all kind of outdoor enthusiasts- hikers, campers, kayakers, backpackers, fly fishers, etc. I was able to get all kinds of great outdoor wear for my partner (Patagonia, Kavu, and other great brands) and saved a bunch with my rewards membership. The staff was super friendly and quick to help. read more

Didn't head here for anything in particular, I just love to check out the new & intriguing in outdoor gear. I really wasn't expecting much from this place, but instantly loved it when I walked in. It's almost like you're entering a lodge, with a big front porch, hardwood floors, & "big" atmosphere. They have quite a vast selection of goodies here for the outdoorsman in us all. If you're looking to head out on a hike, then this place has everything you need to get you & keep you going. From the clothes you'll need, to your tent, to your camping goods, they have it all. I was also impressed with their kayak section, which is pretty extensive. Not only do they have a vast selection in this huge store, they also have unique & intriguing items hard to find elsewhere. So if you're an outdoorsman, or looking to become one, then the Great Outdoor Provision Co has everything you need to get you going. I was very impressed with this store & could have spent quite a bit chunk of change here if I actually had some money. read more

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I highly recommend this shop. Rudy is very knowledgeable and was very helpful and willing to help. Once I found what I wanted, Rudy took the extra step to help with securing my kayak on my car (even though there was my nephew and brother to help with that). He did not hesitate to help out with everything. I suggest that if anyone who is looking to get fishing gears, go see Rudy. read more

Such an awesome store. An incredible inventory for a local operated store. High quality product, and extremely helpful staff. Very knowledgeable. Tons of parking outside, and easy access. Awesome location. read more

Very helpful here!! Anytime you have questions they have answers. They really know about all of their gear and let you test it to see what works best for you. They will most definitely help outfit you. There was a younger gentleman that helped me find the best ground mat. I ended up with the ultralight Sea to Summit. I'll be back. read more

Ok, let's just put it out there - I'm not so much a mountain women. I've never gone fly fishing, nor do I camp very often. While I do love the outdoors, I don't get a chance to hike nearly as much as I would like. However, I do fully appreciate the knowledgeable staff and sweet selection at Great Outdoor Provision Co. I've walked by this store so many times on my way to its movie theater neighbor, but finally walked in yesterday. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth of equipment, offerings and staff knowledge for, well pretty much everything, outdoor related. I spied camping gear, hiking boots, running & active wear, fly fishing needs, kayak goods and more. It seems like they carry top notch brands too, like North Face, Patagonia, Teva & Mountainwear. It's refreshing to see a regional store with educated folks right here in Charlotte. Beats going big box any day! read more

Didn't expect to see this place in the Charlotte Area. Its a good local outdoor shop right off of park road. They have a good selection of outdoor clothing and camping supplies. As far a activities, their specialty seems to be to supplying kayakers and other water activites. They had lots of wetsuits, spray skirts, kayaks, and paddels. The climbing gear selection was a bit sparse, but their isn't much need for them to supply that type of stuff. However you can get cord and webbing cut to length here. Check them out if you need some type of camping or outdoor clothing needs. read more

I have only been here once, but with a very picky friend who had a very specific list of things she needed (she lives overseas in a drastically different culture than ours). I brought her here based off of a recommendation from a friend and was completely blown away by the experience. Very well laid-out, excellent displays, and great atmosphere. The staff was incredibly helpful (and patient) in getting us exactly what we needed within the price range we were looking for. I don't often get impressed by a retail experience but when I do, I'm pretty vocal about it. Great job, guys! read more

YAY! A great outdoor store that isn't REI! The store was well organized just like many outdoor stores I've been to. The have a great selection as well. It isn't a mega-mall of outdoor supplies, but I guarantee you will find most of what you're looking for - including good prices. Like all stores, I'm sure there's a timing for the sales. Ask about the "Mule Team" point program. That might help those prices a little too. Brand selection: North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, Merrel, etc. This place is DOG FRIENDLY!! Bring in your pooch and look at some of their selection of toys, leashes, etc. They really want to meet the 100# Shepherd of ours. WOOF :) What's even better: the incredibly knowledgeable staff that actually gives two you know whats about your outdoor adventure and feeling comfortable in the process. Tell me you get that with your mega-mart chain store? Someone else said it: I've walked by and looked at the store from the outside numerous times. This time I made the unanamous decision.. I'm going in. And, I'm glad that I did. You shall be too. read more

I've been shopping here for decades. If I've wanted pretty much any level of outdoor gear or clothing, it's been there. And I know retail help can vary in talent level, but, I'm done. The pretense here is enough to make head across town to REI or Orvis. The vibe here now isn't that of the local outdoor store, it's of a collection of recently post-collegiate outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the shop discount, rocking the Patagucci fleece, sipping a smoothie from Caribou, kind of bothered when you ask a question, if they can even be bothered. I don't think that I fit the target demographic anymore, and that's okay. I can buy this stuff elsewhere. Good salespeople engage you, bad salespeople avoid eye contact, or even actively walk away from customers (especially if the task at hand is socializing with fellow employees: "smoothie time!") Pro: This place has everything, even a small fly shop inside (I *was* in the market for a new fly rod). Con: If you don't want me to buy any of your really cool stuff, message received. read more

WOW! Boots to boats!!! Everything you could possibly want for your favorite kayaker or hiker! Located at Woodlawn and Park, the location has a huge parking lot so you never have to worry about finding a spot. They have clothing, kayaking accessories and clothes, life vests, water-proof storage, camping gear, hammocks, fancy head tv cameras to tape your adventures. The staff is super helpful - i was a bit lost on what to get my nature-loving friends for Christmas. They steered me in the right direction and stayed within my price range. There are lots of expensive brands there like Patagonia. I had never heard of this brand but it looks like high-quality outer-wear. At Christmas-time they have free gift wrapping too! Thanks guys!! read more

Very disappointed by the lack of customer service. I walked through the store and tried a couple sleeping bags and no one spoke to me. I felt like I was blatantly ignored because I'm not Caucasian. I was hoping to have a positive experience and get advice on products but no such luck. read more

Above and beyond.. we live in Oregon, was looking for a specific color hydro flask item, GOPC had it. They were so accommodative in locating the item in one of their stores, and shipping it to us in Oregon. They even included a hand-written thank you note in the order. Highly recommend. read more

My wife and I went to the GOP store yesterday to just look at kayaks. Sam assisted us and showed extreme patience with all the questions and desire to look at all the options. We settled on a tandem kayak. Sam figured out that we could install a cartop carrier on our car (which I was shocked because our top is glass). He discovered he was missing one part and took time to look for it on the manufacturer's website, even checked Amazon, and ordered it for us. Sam was such a professional in the way he worked with us. He proactively worked to get us the best price on everything. Since we had to wait on a part for the cartop carrier, we couldn't take the kayak home. So Sam delivered it to us on his own time at no charge. I highly recommend this store. I've been shopping with them for several years and there is no place better for almost any outdoor provisions. read more

Let's talk Covid-19 pandemic and how the Great Outdoor Provision hooked my kids and I up! 2019 we decided we would finally purchase our own kayaks and start enjoying the many lakes and rivers in NC. Obviously we tried kayaking at the Whitewater center first to make sure this is what we wanted to do. So we visited this CLT location, the normal box stores and REI. I'm not bashing none of the stores, but out of all the stores, The Great Outdoor Provision was the one place that actually had salespeople that could answer questions on what type of kayaks met our needs. So fast forward Spring 2020, all set to make a purchase and everything shuts down. We are now going stir crazy! I emailed this store, same day Rudy emailed me back. I told him what I wanted. Although CLT GOP did not have the kayaks I wanted, Rudy went the extra effort to find them in Winston-Salem and hooked me up with Ward and Darren the manager on a group text. That was awesome but even better, the guys at the Winston-Salem Great Outdoor Provision Company opened up the store for my two teenagers and myself to ask questions, try sitting in kayaks, try on life jackets, pick out paddles, basically gave us free range of the store with two hours of attention to us! I cannot say enough great things about this company and buying local! Not to mention the great prices and service, it was like being treated like a VIP. Amazing experience! After our purchase Ward assisted, really showed us how to secure the kayaks to my roof rack and gave suggestions on additional loading options. We were set, now creating our own adventures and lots of family time! We ended up buying a Hobie Compass 12' for me and two Wilderness Tarpon 105s for the kids with everything else needed to stay safe. We've been on the lake six times now and cannot wait for more parks to open up to try new locations. I personally want to thank Rudy for finding what I wanted and Ward for his excellent knowledge and time! If you are looking into kayaking or anything outdoors, I highly recommend local shops and definitely The Great Outdoor Provision Company. You will not be disappointed! I'm a customer for life... read more

Great Outdoor Provision - Hobie 12' Compass 2019 camo edition with 180 drive on truck rack and two Wilderness Tarpon 105's in the trailer! - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I came here to look into kayaking equipment. If you're ever interested in anything to do with kayaks, these are the people you want to talk to. It seemed like every employee I talked to was a kayaking expert. I was actually interested in taking a kayaking roll clinic that they offer at the aquatic center uptown. When I asked about the class the guy who was helping me got all excited and immediately got me fitted in a kayak. He was extremely knowledgeable and took a lot of time making sure I had just the right fit. He was so into the sport he practically gave me a beginner course on the subject, kayaking 101. Next, I made it to the counter to pay for my 2 hour roll clinic session and the total was only $10 which included all equipment (which they bring to the pool so all you have to do is show up) and one-on-one time with instructors in the pool. Are you kidding me?? Only $10?? For the price I assumed the pool session probably wouldn't be all that informative but I was pleasantly surprised! There were several instructors available and they spent most of their time with the newbies. All the instructors were wonderful and within 30 minutes of being in the water in my kayak I was able to flip the kayak upside down (with my head under water) and maneuver myself back on top of the water with my paddle. It's actually not that easy to do the first time around but the instructors were so great I caught right on. Besides just the kayaking stuff this store has a plethora of outdoor goodies. We don't do a lot of the other outdoorsy-type stuff like camping, etc. but if we did this is definitely the store I would go to. I'm not sure how their prices compare to other sporting goods stores like Dick's Sporting Goods, but if I'm new to the activity I'm buying gear for I wouldn't mind paying a few bucks extra for the excellent info and service provided by this store. read more

Thank you Kyla for helping me find the visor I've been looking all over the city for and wrapping it up.

Local outdoor store with a small selection of clothes and gear. The selection for rock climbing gear was very limited. The store was clean and well organized. Prices were on par with MSRP. So, why two stars? Well, I don't particularly care for being followed around by employees as I peruse the store. I'll take my business elsewhere. read more

Always great to see a local business that has the feel of an old general store... Or.. Well... Provisioning store. Great outdoor knocks it out of the park every winter with the best brands and outerwear and friendliest service. I thought it was very nice, too that they remembered which jacket my husband bought 2 weeks ago when we went back to get one for me this weekend. It's a go-to for gifts for my outdoorsy brother in law, too. read more

You best be preparing for the upcoming pacalypse! Tents, stoves, bug out bags, and all around awesome man-stuff! I like to go in here and fiddle around with survival gear n junk. The staff is super friendly and always stare at me because I look like I'm gonna steal something. I haven't, yet. Support local business and drop by for a disc golf disc or kayak or ugly hiking shoes. You won't be disappointed. read more

I thought this place was pretty great, they really have everything when it comes to outdoor wear, information, and sporting goods. I am from Boone, NC in the Appalachian Mountains and I cannot wait to love show this store to some of my rock climbing and kayaking buddies. I thumbed through some of their trail books on the Appalachian Trail (they were very in depth) just for a little nostalgia. The shop really made me want to jump into the forest with a tent and spend a couple of days alone in the wilderness. They have top of the line camping gear and then some more affordable stuff for people like me. Oh to be a mountain man again. read more

The staff always gives great service and advice . Sam is great and always comes through with help . I would trust their advice over any big box store . read more

Being the master of safety that I am, I was recently looking for an emergency kit to keep in my car. You know, just in case. So the thought came to me that the supplies I needed were similar to the things you use when camping. So I came upon this place, and wouldn't you know it, I found what I needed. They had a pretty good layout to the store so everything was easy to find. I'm not much of a outdoorsy type, so I can't really speak to the other sporting things they had there. But I certainly had some fantasies of grandeur looking at the rock climbing equipment. read more

GOPC has (I think) eight locations in NC and now Virginia. I've been to five of them and the experience has been consistently good across them all. I'll write this review for Charlotte, but it could apply to any store. Great Outdoor Provision Company is the kind of business you want in your town. They are very community oriented and strong supporters of various outdoor places and events (such as the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.) My hometown is not large enough for them to justify a location, but we are actively searching for someone interested in opening up this type of business. As for the store. It's a bit like the Mast General Store experience (for those of you who are familiar with that company.) The (intentionally) creaky wood floors fit perfectly with the outdoor, cabin-like theme. The staff is super knowledgeable and friendly. I have never experienced them being aggressive or hovering around me. I'm fairly certain that most if not all of the sales staff lives the lifestyle that GOPC sells and uses the products that are in the store. The product selection within categories (kayaks, clothing, tents, etc...) is pretty good for a retail store that covers so many different outdoor interests. The products they carry also tend to be dependable brands that stand behind what they manufacture. Some people might think the prices are high, but are not buying the cheap knockoffs you might find in a big box retailer, you're getting The North Face, GoPro, Black Diamond, etc... I put 2 $ for price because you rarely see the products they carry discounted anywhere, so they are on par with what I feel you can expect to pay. GOPC does not have a location within an hour of where I live, but I try to make it a point to swing by whenever I'm in one of the cities where they are located. If for nothing else, than to just browse around and see what's new. read more

This is my go to store for outdoor equipment and clothing. They have great staff who are knowledgeable and attentive. They stand behind their stuff. I like their selection of clothing. Most of all, they encourage me to wear shoes around the house and return them. For me this is essential since my feet have multiple problems. Great place to buy gifts! read more