Basecamp 550 is RACC July 2025 Member of the Month
Basecamp 550 is being recognized as our July 2025 Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce Member of the Month. The Member of the Month program is an ongoing effort by the Chamber to provide the community and visitors with information about businesses and organizations in the area and promote patronage of our local resources and small, independent companies. RACC had the opportunity to chat with owner Heather Jaquette about how her and her partner Sam's love for the vibrant community that Ridgway provides year-round inspired them to transform Basecamp 550 into a quaint, fuss-free camping and glamping experience.
1. Please introduce yourselves and how you came to own Basecamp 550?
We are Sam and Heather Jaquette, originally from Michigan. In 2014, we embarked on a six-month journey living out of our Westfalia in California. We then headed to Ridgway, a place Sam had visited for many ski trips. We first stayed at what was then Weber RV Park (now BASECAMP 550) and woke up one cold January morning to the most incredible view of the San Juan Mountains. From that moment, we knew Ridgway was where we wanted to call home. Our initial plan was to camp for just one winter, but we loved it so much that we decided to stay. The stars aligned, and we had the opportunity to acquire the campground in 2016. That first summer was so busy that we even had a small wedding in Ridgway because we couldn't leave town to go back to Michigan. Our family and friends adored visiting Ridgway and seeing where we had put down roots. In 2018, we rebranded the campground as BASECAMP 550 to highlight its prime location, which allows guests easy access to so many wonderful communities and attractions in the area.
2. How long has Basecamp 550 been in the Ridgway area and what lodging options do you provide?
BASECAMP 550 was originally built in the 1970s by the Weber Family. We're fortunate they chose such a beautiful spot with stunning mountain views. We have 40 sites and offer various lodging options, including tent sites, RV sites, and tiny homes.
3. What should guests know about choosing Basecamp 550? What amenities do you provide?
We offer simple, year-round camping accommodations with a cozy, "mom and pop" feel. We maintain a small team and provide contactless check-in, ensuring a fuss-free experience for our guests. This allows them the freedom to come and go as they please and easily get to their planned adventures.
Our campground is quite small, spanning about three acres, which means our RV sites are compact, and we limit RV length to no more than 28 feet. Our glamping tents are equipped with queen beds, a mini-fridge, and a microwave for convenience. Our tiny homes vary but include either one or two queen beds, full kitchens, and a private bathroom. Guests can also enjoy our clubhouse, which is open daily with complimentary coffee and tea, utilize our grill station with an outdoor sink, or use the coin-operated laundry facilities. Our bathhouse and all units are stocked with non-toxic Public Goods soaps, and linens are provided in all units.
4. Why did you decide to open a business in Ridgway?
We were actually house hunting when the opportunity to buy the campground arose. It felt like a natural fit since we had been staying there, embraced the RV lifestyle, and absolutely loved the area.
5. What is the best part about owning a business in Ridgway?
The relationships we've built with other business owners, neighbors, locals, and organizations over the years have been incredibly supportive, whether business is booming or slow. The locals truly make this area well-rounded and provide us with countless reasons to share with all our visiting guests throughout the year.
6. How would you describe the Ridgway experience to someone who may have not visited the area?
Ridgway is a unique hybrid community that offers a little bit of everything for visitors, from concerts and the reservoir to a vibrant food scene, local artistry, scenic ranches, and a plethora of mountain adventures at your fingertips. With abundant sunshine and breathtaking mountain views, it's hard not to fall in love with Ridgway. It's an overall fantastic place to visit any time of year, as each season brings something special to offer. We feel truly blessed to be part of such a wonderful community.
