Today we’d like to introduce you to Ross Kuhns.
Hi Ross, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
We purchased the Baileys Basecamp property in 2016 as a family hunting retreat. When we learned about the plans for the Baileys Trail System (88 miles of single-track trails)—and with the onset of COVID—I felt inspired to share this special place with others. The pandemic gave me the time and space to really focus on building, reconnecting with the land, and creating something meaningful in nature.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been anything but a smooth road. Most of the setbacks have been due to Mother Nature. Being in a valley in the Appalachian Foothills and surrounded by Wayne National Forest is beautiful but challenging. Currently, we are rebuilding our pole barn that lost a battle against a massive Red Oak. We’ve grown to embrace these setbacks as temporary speed bumps and learning experiences.
We’ve been impressed with Baileys Basecamp, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Baileys Basecamp is a family owned tiny cabin in the middle of Wayne National Forest surrounded by the Baileys Trail System. We cater to a wide variety of guest from many different states. Mountain bikers, trail runners and outdoor enthusiast love the direct access to the trails. Motorcyclists use the cabin as a Basecamp for riding Ohio’s Windy 9 and various off-road trails. We are close to Hocking Hills, Ohio University (perfect for visiting parents) and many other Southeast Ohio treasures.
We’re incredibly proud of how far we’ve come and the cozy environment we’ve created. The progress has been steady but intentionally slow, because nearly everything here has been built by hand—by me, with the help of family, friends, and a few talented local tradespeople. It’s been a true labor of love, and we’re excited to welcome others to enjoy the space we’ve thoughtfully created.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I have always had a passion for learning, creating cool stuff and seeing the finished product. I have had a very unique path though. It started with an education in carpentry at vocational school, after that I served in the U.S. Army and then went on to college to become a financial advisor. After 25 years of running a successful firm I was fortunate enough to sell my practice and am now pursuing my passion for building cabins to share with other people.
What I’ve learned:
Be a lifelong learner.
Focus on the process, product and people. The rest will come.
Get uncomfortable. Projects can be overwhelming but take it step by step and you will get there.
Don’t lose sight of your “why”.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Baileysbasecamp.com
- Instagram: @Baileysbasecamp
- Facebook: Baileys Basecamp
