What Happened to Gander Mountain?
Gander Mountain was a wellknown outdoor retail chain that filed for bankruptcy in 2017. Afterwards, the assets were acquired by Camping World Holdings, which kept some locations open under the new brand “Gander Outdoors.”
While the familiar name on your gift card might be Gander Mountain, what’s important now is how Camping World handled the transition—and what it means for gift card holders.
Are gander mountain gift cards still good?
Short answer: it depends.
After the bankruptcy, Camping World initially honored some Gander Mountain gift cards for a limited time. Then, the policy shifted. Most original Gander Mountain gift cards are no longer accepted—particularly not at Gander Outdoors or Camping World locations.
If your card hasn’t been used in years, it’s highly likely it’s no longer valid. Check the back of the card for issuing bank information or a customer service line. But don’t get your hopes up—odds are that redemption options are gone.
Why Gift Cards Get Lost in Bankruptcy
Here’s the deal: when a retailer files for bankruptcy, gift cards become just another form of unsecured debt. Creditors get in line first; consumers holding gift cards are often out of luck—especially if there’s no buying entity willing to honor them.
In the case of Gander Mountain, Camping World bought assets, not liabilities. That’s a key legal and business distinction. So your right to redeem died with the old Gander Mountain, unless the new company explicitly accepted responsibility—which it largely didn’t beyond the grace period.
Are There Any Workarounds?
If your card has value and was issued by a thirdparty provider (e.g., GiftCardMall, or a bank with its own security codes), you might be able to file a claim or negotiate with the issuer. It’s not guaranteed and usually not quick, but worth trying if the card’s balance is substantial.
Another approach: check online marketplaces like Raise or CardCash. Sometimes they offer to buy or exchange outdated cards—though these sites usually require the card to be verifiable and balancechecked.
What to Do Now
If you’ve realized your gander mountain gift cards still good isn’t quite the case, you’ve got options:
- Verify the balance: Try calling the number on the back of the card or check an official website (if any still exist for that brand).
- Contact the issuer: If the card was purchased through a thirdparty vendor, go back to them and ask about refunds or conversions.
- File a bankruptcy claim (archival): Probably too late by now, but back in 201718, gift card holders could’ve filed claims against Gander Mountain. Important for folks dealing with new bankruptcies elsewhere.
- Learn for next time: Use gift cards soon after getting them—especially from retailers showing signs of distress.
Alternatives to Gander Cards
If you were counting on that card for outdoor gear, look into these alternatives instead:
Bass Pro Shops / Cabela’s: Wellstocked for hunting, camping, and fishing. REI: Higherend gear, but top quality and great service. Academy Sports + Outdoors: Solid choice with fair prices and wide selection.
These retailers are currently on steadier footing and offer digital and reloadable cards that are a bit easier to manage—or use—before they expire.
Final Thoughts on gander mountain gift cards still good
It’s frustrating to lose money sitting on a gift card, especially when the retailer’s name is still out there in some form. Unfortunately, most gander mountain gift cards still good are no longer valid. Unless you used it during the original postbankruptcy grace period, odds are high it’s worthless.
It’s a solid reminder to always redeem gift cards sooner rather than later—and to watch closely when a retailer shifts ownership or restructures. If you’ve still got questions, reaching out to Camping World customer service or financial institutions connected to the original card might be your last shot.
Bottom line: don’t stash unused cards for “someday.” Use them, cash them in, or exchange them while you still can.

Poppy Matthaei
Is an accomplished author at Winder Sportisa, distinguished by her compelling and well-researched content. With a fervent love for sports and a knack for capturing the essence of each story, Poppy engages readers with her unique perspective and narrative flair. Her dedication to precision and authenticity aligns perfectly with Winder Sportisa's core values of community, integrity, and innovation. Poppy's contributions not only inform but also inspire, reflecting the company's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Her passion and expertise continue to enhance the quality and impact of Winder Sportisa's publications.
