Our Mission
Outside 45 exists to help people see the outdoors not as a far-off destination, but as part of everyday life. We want families, individuals, and communities to realize just how much is waiting for them just outside the city limits. With a little curiosity and the right information, anyone can find adventure, rest, and connection in the woods, on the water, or under the stars—no plane ticket required. Our vision is to make outdoor recreation more approachable, more familiar, and more rooted in the places we call home.
There are three pillars to our mission: education, access, and improvement.
Education
We believe that the first step to getting outside is knowing where to go and what to do when you get there. That’s why we focus on using our website and social media channels to highlight public lands within a 45-minute drive of St. Joseph, Missouri. From conservation areas to state parks, paddling routes to picnic spots, we’re curating trail guides, day trip ideas, and seasonal highlights that make it easier for people to plan their next outing. Our goal is to remove the guesswork and show just how much outdoor opportunity surrounds this region—whether you’ve got a full weekend or just a free hour in the afternoon.
Access
Sometimes people just need a nudge—or an invitation. That’s why we lead group activities like guided hikes, beginner paddling events, and family-friendly intro-to-camping nights. These experiences are designed to build confidence, spark curiosity, and help families feel at home in public spaces. Our team provides the tools, the know-how, and the structure—so people can simply show up and start learning together. We want our community to not only visit these places, but to make memories there that keep them coming back.
Improvements
We know that good trails, clean facilities, and safe access points make a big difference in how people experience the outdoors. That’s why we raise funds and provide support for small-but-mighty projects on local public lands—things like repairing footbridges, replacing benches, improving signage, or clearing overgrown paths. These improvements may seem simple, but they go a long way in making outdoor spaces more inviting and usable. Through donations, grants, and hands-on partnerships, we aim to help public lands stay strong, safe, and welcoming for the long haul.