Gander Mountain: What to Know Before You Visit

Gander Mountain closed all its stores in 2017

Gander Mountain is no longer operating. The outdoor retailer shut down all locations nationwide in 2017 after filing for bankruptcy. If you were looking to shop there for camping gear, hunting equipment, or fishing supplies, you will need to visit a different retailer.

The company had operated for decades as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts across the country, but like many brick-and-mortar retailers, it could not compete with online shopping and larger competitors. The closure affected hundreds of stores and left many South Carolina shoppers searching for alternatives.

Key Takeaways

• Gander Mountain ceased operations in 2017 and no physical locations remain open anywhere in the United States.
• South Carolina has several active outdoor retailers that carry similar gear for camping, hunting, fishing, and hiking.
• Dick's Sporting Goods, Bass Pro Shops, and local independent outdoor stores now serve the market Gander Mountain once occupied.
• Online retailers and regional chains offer comparable selections of tents, backpacks, fishing tackle, and hunting equipment.

Where to shop for outdoor gear in South Carolina now

Dick's Sporting Goods operates multiple locations across South Carolina and carries outdoor equipment including tents, backpacks, hiking boots, and fishing gear. Stores are located in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and other major cities. You can visit their website to find the nearest location and check inventory before you go.

Bass Pro Shops has a location in Myrtle Beach that stocks hunting rifles, fishing tackle, camping equipment, and outdoor apparel. The store also includes a restaurant and entertainment areas, making it a destination visit rather than a quick stop. This is the closest major Bass Pro location to most of South Carolina.

Independent outdoor retailers throughout the state focus on specific activities. Fly-fishing shops in the Upstate cater to trout anglers on the Davidson River and local streams. Hunting supply stores near hunting lands in the Lowcountry stock ammunition, decoys, and seasonal gear. Local bike shops and outdoor outfitters in mountain towns like Brevard and Asheville (just over the border in North Carolina) serve hikers and backpackers.

Online alternatives if you cannot visit a store

National outdoor retailers like REI, Cabela's, and Backcountry ship to South Carolina and often carry the same brands and product types Gander Mountain once offered. REI also operates a membership program that returns a percentage of purchases as annual dividends, which some shoppers find valuable for regular outdoor purchases.

Amazon carries outdoor gear from major brands, though selection and pricing vary by product category. Specialty retailers focused on specific activities—like fly-fishing retailers or rock climbing shops—often have deeper inventory in their niche than general outdoor stores.

What Gander Mountain customers should know about warranties and returns

If you purchased items from Gander Mountain before the 2017 closure and still have questions about warranties or returns, contact the manufacturer directly. Gander Mountain's warranty policies transferred to individual brands when the company shut down, so a tent made by Coleman or a fishing rod made by Shimano would be covered under that brand's warranty, not Gander Mountain's.

Keep your original receipt if you have one. Manufacturer warranties typically run one to three years depending on the product, and most outdoor gear companies honor claims even if you did not purchase directly from them.

Why Gander Mountain closed and what changed in outdoor retail

Gander Mountain filed for bankruptcy in 2017 as online retailers and big-box stores captured market share. The company had expanded rapidly in the 1990s and 2000s but could not adapt quickly enough when shopping habits shifted. Dick's Sporting Goods and Walmart began carrying more outdoor gear, and Amazon made it possible to compare prices and order from home.

The outdoor retail landscape today is fragmented. Large chains like Dick's and Bass Pro Shops operate fewer locations but with broader inventory. Specialty retailers have grown in smaller markets, focusing on specific activities and building community around those interests. Online shopping dominates for price-sensitive purchases, while local shops thrive on expertise and personal service.

Finding gear for specific outdoor activities in South Carolina

For camping and backpacking, Dick's Sporting Goods and REI both stock tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks. Local outfitters in mountain towns often have staff who know the specific trails and conditions you will encounter.

For hunting, Bass Pro Shops in Myrtle Beach is the largest dedicated option, but county-level hunting supply stores near wildlife management areas stock ammunition, decoys, and seasonal gear. Many are family-owned and staffed by hunters who know local seasons and regulations.

For fishing, fly-fishing shops in the Upstate (particularly near the Davidson River) and saltwater tackle shops in coastal towns carry specialized equipment and often offer guidance on local waters. General sporting goods stores carry basic rods and tackle but may not stock regional species-specific gear.

For hiking and trail running, outdoor specialty stores in Asheville, Brevard, and Greenville focus on footwear and lightweight gear. These shops often have staff who hike locally and can recommend trails and equipment based on experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still return items I bought at Gander Mountain?

No. Gander Mountain closed in 2017 and no longer processes returns. If your item is still under manufacturer warranty, contact the brand directly. If you have a receipt, the manufacturer may honor a claim even though you did not purchase from them directly.

Where was the nearest Gander Mountain to South Carolina?

Gander Mountain had locations throughout South Carolina before the 2017 closure, including stores in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and other cities. All locations have permanently closed. Bass Pro Shops in Myrtle Beach is now the largest dedicated outdoor retailer in the state.

Does Gander Mountain have an online store?

No. The company's website and online store shut down when the company closed in 2017. REI, Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, and Dick's Sporting Goods all operate online stores that ship to South Carolina.

What brands did Gander Mountain carry that I can still buy?

Gander Mountain carried major outdoor brands like Coleman, Shimano, Browning, and many others. These brands are still sold through Dick's Sporting Goods, Bass Pro Shops, REI, and online retailers. You can search for specific brands on any of these sites to find what you need.

Are there any Gander Mountain locations still open anywhere?

No. All Gander Mountain stores closed permanently in 2017. The company did not reopen any locations after the bankruptcy.