Learn from local adventurers as they share their stories, tips, and triumphs.
Basecamp Stories is an educational program series (held indoors) every other Thursday from 7:00 – 8:30 pm at the W.W. Knight Nature Preserve, 29530 White Road, Perrysburg, OH 43551. These programs are free, and registration is required for each. These programs are hosted by program naturalist and adventure specialist, Craig Spicer.

Thursday, December 8
Base Camp Stories: “There’s nothing to do here;” Raising Ohio Adventure Awareness – Paul Fuzinski

Paul has traveled all across the United States hiking, climbing mountains, hunting Sasquatch, catching sharks, competing in adventure races and much more. Despite these experiences, he finds captivating adventures in the Northwest Ohio region! Many people think they need to travel to faraway places to find adventure when we have so much to see right here in our own backyards. Paul has set out to dispel the myth that “there’s nothing to do here.”

Thursday, December 22
Base Camp Stories: Biking the Pacific Coast for MS – Mike Armstrong

Over the last few years, Mike has been challenged with several difficult situations and life-changing moments, including loved ones going through crisis similar to those afflicted with Multiple Sclerosis. Seeking to put positive energy into an amazing cause, Mike joined the 2022 Pacific Coast Cycling Team as a part of Bike the US for MS campaign, riding from Seattle, Washington to San Diego, California. Hear of Mikes training, his ride experience, and the impact that was made from him and to him.

Thursday, January 5
Base Camp Stories: Fort-to-Port; An Adventure on the Maumee River – Bill Hoefflin

In 2019, four bold kayakers embarked to thru-paddle the entire 137 miles of the Maumee River in 4 days. Hear from expedition members as they share stories, logistics, preparations, and photos and videos from their adventure.

Thursday, January 19
Base Camp Stories: How to Survive an Ice Storm while Rock Climbing Grand Teton – Ben Waggoner

Professional climber Ben Waggoner has climbed all over the country, guiding and teaching countless others how to prepare and experience the sport safely. But when a storm surprises Ben halfway up the 13,775’ Grand Teton in Wyoming, what did he rely on to survive? In this presentation, Ben shares his experiences in life and rock-climbing.

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Thursday, February 9
Base Camp Stories: Hiking Coast to Coast on the American Discovery Trail – Jodi Harrington

Though from small-town Northwest Ohio, Jodi has always sought big adventures! Driving a vegetable-oil-run truck to Alaska, circumnavigating Florida on her bicycle and visiting every national park are just a few. On this evening she’ll be discussing one of her biggest adventures of all: walking across America on the northern route of the American Discovery Trail. Jodi will share the logistics, struggles, life lessons and some of the sweet stories experienced along the way.

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Thursday, February 23
Base Camp Stories: A Picture-Perfect Trip; Kayaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Eric Slough

Eric is a kayaking instructor, avid paddling community advocate, and adventurer, paddling all over the Great Lakes Region. In this presentation, Eric shares about his experience paddling the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and surrounding Upper Peninsula area including Grand Island and Grand Maris.

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