CrawDaddy Outdoors is bringing a renewed kind of energy to Ames, one built around exploration, skill building, and a willingness to step beyond the familiar. Originally founded in Waverly, Iowa, the outdoor retailer and adventure company has expanded into Downtown Ames, creating a hub for both seasoned adventurers and those just beginning to discover the outdoors.
Owner Jamie Borglum launched CrawDaddy Outdoors with a vision that extends well beyond selling gear. After operating in Waverly for two years, the move into Ames marks a natural next step, placing the business in a community with strong access to trails, water, and outdoor enthusiasts. The Downtown location offers a carefully curated selection of equipment and apparel, from kayaks and paddling gear to backpacks, camping supplies, and outdoor lifestyle goods.
The Ames location also reflects a growing demand for accessible outdoor recreation in Central Iowa. With more people looking for ways to stay active and connected to nature, CrawDaddy Outdoors is meeting that interest by creating a space that feels welcoming, educational, and community driven.
But retail is only part of the story. CrawDaddy Outdoors has built its identity around experiences. Throughout the year, the company offers an extensive lineup of trips, classes, and clinics, totaling more than 100 days annually. These range from beginner friendly kayaking lessons and backpacking clinics to more advanced offerings like orienteering and whitewater river courses. The goal is simple. Equip people not just with gear, but with the confidence and skills to use it.
That philosophy will be on full display this summer with a pop-up kayak rental operation at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. The temporary location will make it easier than ever for residents and visitors to get on the water, try something new, and experience Ames from a different perspective. It also serves as an accessible entry point for those who may be curious about paddling but unsure where to start.
For Borglum, these local experiences are part of a broader mission that includes both nearby adventures and global travel. CrawDaddy Outdoors organizes immersive trips across the country and around the world, including excursions to Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. These journeys combine physical challenge with cultural exploration, offering participants a deeper connection to both nature and themselves.
Borglum embraces that same spirit personally, often venturing into the wilderness multiple times a year, including solo expeditions that push him mentally and physically. That mindset shapes the brand and its approach to customers.
“We want people to realize they’re capable of more than they think,” Borglum said. “Whether it’s your first time in a kayak or hiking a trail in another country, there’s something powerful about taking that step.”
As CrawDaddy Outdoors settles into its new home in Downtown Ames, it is poised to become more than just a store. It is a launching point for new skills, new experiences, and new perspectives on what it means to get outside.
Learn more about CrawDaddy Outdoors on their website: www.CrawDaddyOutdoors.com