When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
General Army Navy Outdoor
Why General Army Navy Outdoor is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
General Army Navy Outdoor in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts and military surplus collectors alike. Since its founding in 1981 as a humble army navy surplus store, it has evolved into a spacious 28,000 square foot retail haven offering a comprehensive range of camping, hiking, backpacking, hunting, and fishing gear. The store's vibrant and light-filled atmosphere features unique museum-like displays, including 50% scale models of World War I planes, a World War II target drone, an authentic missile suspended from the ceiling, a refurbished Willys Jeep, and historic military artifacts such as 1922 horse-drawn artillery wagons. This engaging environment makes it not just a shopping trip but a memorable experience that appeals to history buffs and outdoor adventurers alike.
General Army Navy Outdoor is celebrated for its high-quality yet affordable products under the motto 'Get into the outdoors for less.' It stocks respected brands like Coleman, ALPS, and MSR, alongside one of the state's largest selections of cast iron cookware from brands such as Lodge and Camp Chef. Notably, it offers Dutch oven cooking classes and occasional cooking demonstrations, enhancing community engagement and customer experience. This combination of rich heritage, extensive product variety, expert service, and educational opportunities makes General Army Navy Outdoor a favorite meeting place and resource hub for friends and families looking to explore the outdoors or delve into military collectibles.
Here's what people think of General Army Navy Outdoor
As of recent, General Army Navy Outdoor holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1738 reviews.
User reviews of General Army Navy Outdoor reflect a generally positive consensus, evidenced by a strong 4.5-star rating based on over 1,700 reviews. Many customers commend the store for its exceptional product variety and quality, highlighting its extensive inventory that caters to a broad range of outdoor and military needs. The knowledgeable and friendly staff receive frequent praise for providing personal and helpful customer service, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Positive reviews particularly emphasize the store's unique and engaging atmosphere filled with historic military displays that create a captivating shopping environment. Customers also appreciate the affordable pricing, diverse selection of renowned outdoor brands, and specialty items such as their large cast iron cookware assortment. The Dutch oven cooking classes are often mentioned as a distinctive value-add that fosters community and learning.
Negative feedback tends to focus on occasional issues like product availability or the store’s size potentially overwhelming some visitors due to the vast array of items. A few critiques mention the need for improved organization or signage within the large retail space to help navigate more efficiently. Despite these minor drawbacks, the consensus is that General Army Navy Outdoor maintains a high standard and remains a go-to location for outdoor and surplus gear.
In summary, reviews portray General Army Navy Outdoor as a reputable and customer-friendly store that successfully combines a rich heritage with modern retail convenience and community engagement, making it a trusted destination for shoppers in Utah and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jonathan Kinchen
Awesome guys work here. They have some Character, but what else do you expect from an owner of a Military Surplus Store. The only difference is they ain't anything other than helpful and nice. They have anything you can think of. If you're getting your 214 and missing equipment/apparel/etc. is holding you back, stop by so you can finally answer that call in the am from the CO because you ain't there,or don't ....
Chase Hill
This place Has Everything You need! The Staff are super Great! Not knowing exactly what I needed, this Great Man PAT helped me out, got me everything I needed. I built two Military boxes, and He helped me getting the Correct parts, and gave me so much helpful advice! Without PAT'S help, my project would have been wrong, and a complete disaster! I appreciate Your Help, Professionalism, and Knowledgeable about the Military, and You job. You are an Outstanding Man. Thank You!
Kayden Weight
The employees here were great. I was greeted immediately, and they helped me find exactly what I was looking for to repair a canvas tent that had a sizable hole in it. This store has all kinds of products and definitely worth a stop!
Rick Jones
Go out of your way to go here! Seriously, this place has everything and the prices are excellent. The sales people are always ready to help. I called on Cody 3 times for assistance and he was eager and informed every time. Lots of sale items and a huge selection of super cool stuff. You will dig it if you need anything for the great outdoors.
Michael Gipson
One of the few stores that is reliably better to visit than order from Amazon. The supplies are vast and interesting to see. Great camping supplies, hiking, hunting, self defense, military costumes, memoribilia etc. Great customer service and kind people to answer questions without condescension.
How to reach General Army Navy Outdoor
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Website: None
Why General Army Navy Outdoor may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at General Army Navy Outdoor with your friends? Gathering at this well-regarded military surplus and outdoor gear store in Salt Lake City, UT, offers more than just shopping—it provides a unique experience rooted in adventure and discovery. With a strong 4.5-star rating based on over 1700 reviews, the store has earned a reputation for quality, variety, and knowledgeable staff who genuinely help visitors explore the best gear for all kinds of outdoor activities. Bringing friends to General Army Navy Outdoor means sharing the excitement of examining authentic military surplus items, robust camping equipment, and survival gear that you simply can't find at typical outdoor shops. It becomes a bonding experience, as you compare gear, plan future adventures together, and even pick up practical tips on preparing for hiking, camping, or emergency situations. Whether your group is made up of seasoned outdoorspeople or casual enthusiasts looking for reliable gear, the store offers ample reasons to rally: from specialized equipment discussions to exploring affordable and durable outdoor essentials. In essence, it’s not just about shopping; it’s about connecting over interests that drive outdoor adventures, making it an excellent hub for a fun and purposeful group meetup.
What activities can you do at General Army Navy Outdoor and why is it perfect for group meetups? While primarily a retail store for military surplus, camping gear, and outdoor essentials, General Army Navy Outdoor offers a variety of engaging activities well-suited for groups. First, exploring the vast inventory itself is an adventure. The store carries everything from rugged duffle bags and sleeping bags to tactical clothing and emergency preparedness kits. Walking through the aisles with friends allows you to compare features, discuss potential uses, and even test the durability or comfort of items, turning shopping into an interactive experience. Another engaging activity is gear planning and preparation—groups can brainstorm and pick out items for upcoming camping trips, hiking excursions, or emergency kits. The knowledgeable staff at the store provide expert advice, which can spark lively conversations and learning moments for everyone in your group. Finally, the store sometimes hosts special promotions or events that add to the experience. Because the store is spacious and well-organized, it’s easy for groups to move around comfortably and engage with different sections, making the shopping experience both social and educational. This combination of hands-on exploration, expert advice, and wide product selection makes General Army Navy Outdoor an ideal location for friends or families eager to prepare for outdoor adventures together.
What kind of gear and products can you find for your group’s outdoor adventures? General Army Navy Outdoor specializes in authentic military surplus combined with high-quality outdoor and camping equipment that caters to a wide range of recreational activities. For groups planning outdoor trips, you’ll find essential camping gear such as tents, sleeping bags—including temperature-rated options like the Cedar Creek sleeping bag—and durable backpacks and duffle bags designed for heavy use. The store stocks rugged footwear like military-style boots that are perfect for hiking over rough terrains, offering long-lasting comfort and protection. For those concerned with safety and preparedness, the shop offers survival and emergency kits, water purification tools, and tactical gear designed for reliability in harsh conditions. Beyond individual items, the store also provides clothing options—from camouflage gear to weather-resistant outerwear—that are both functional and stylish for outdoor enthusiasts. The vast product range means all group members, regardless of their outdoor experience level, can find gear suited to them, ensuring everyone is ready and equipped for group adventures. The affordability and durability of these products make this store a cost-effective place to outfit your entire group with gear that will withstand environmental challenges and provide peace of mind.
How does General Army Navy Outdoor support planning and preparation for group outdoor activities? Preparing for any group outdoor event requires not only quality gear but knowledge and planning assistance, both of which are strengths of this store. General Army Navy Outdoor’s staff are experts who understand the nuances of military surplus and outdoor equipment, offering helpful insights and recommendations tailored to group needs. If you're organizing a hiking trip, camping weekend, or even an emergency preparedness drill with friends or family, the staff can guide you in selecting the right combination of gear to match your group’s size, destination, and experience levels. Additionally, the store carries specialized items such as survival kits and multi-use tools, which are crucial when preparing for uncertain conditions in nature. Group members can gain valuable tips on gear functionality, packing efficiently, and layering clothing for changing weather. Because the store commits to quality and authenticity, you are assured that the advice and products will stand up to demanding outdoor use. From initial planning to final purchase, General Army Navy Outdoor acts as a comprehensive resource that elevates your group’s outdoor preparedness and confidence.
Why is General Army Navy Outdoor’s shopping experience ideal for families and friends? The friendly and knowledgeable team at General Army Navy Outdoor creates a welcoming environment that encourages group participation and interaction. Families and friends shopping here can expect a relaxed pace without feeling rushed, which is essential when multiple people want to weigh in on purchases. The store’s layout invites exploration, with clearly organized sections dedicated to different types of gear, making it easy for groups to split up to scout items that interest each member and then regroup to compare notes. Frequent sales, military surplus bargains, and a variety of price points mean that groups with mixed budgets can find good deals without sacrificing quality. This inclusive, customer-focused approach supports open communication and collaboration among group members during decision-making. Additionally, with extended weekday and weekend hours, it’s convenient for groups to plan visits that fit their schedules. Whether your group includes outdoor novices or veterans, the store atmosphere is conducive to fun, focused shopping that strengthens your bonds through shared interests and goals. In this way, General Army Navy Outdoor goes beyond being just a store, becoming a place that fosters connections around outdoor exploration and preparedness.