That movie is The Great Outdoors.
I realize I could have posted this for the movie's 37th anniversary back in June, but I purposely saved writing this article for August because the scenery and family activities remind me so much of my time lakeside in Maine.
Longtime readers will recall that over the years, I've detailed our annual family trips to "Vacationland." That's actually the tourism tagline for Maine, not just something I made up. In an earlier essay, I wrote about the toys that kept me company during one particular year, which you can read here. It briefly provides some additional details about our vacations, which I'll avoid repeating here.
The community we stayed in was located on an inlet in the lake, featuring a private beach and boat dock. There were about 8 or 9 cabins up a small hill from the beach, most with at least a sliver of a view of the lake through the trees. None of the cabins were as grand (or clean) as the ones in The Great Outdoors, though. My family had our own cabin, and just like at home, Granny and Gramps were next door. They'd have different visitors come and go throughout the stay, but usually, my Uncle Bob would be there the entire time. Other members of the extended family would also be there in their own cabins, just steps away.
The remaining places were occupied by folks who would return each year at the same time. They became close friends, and we treated them as "family."
There was a lot to look forward to on those trips. We spent our days swimming, reading, shopping, and relaxing. I'd play on my own, in a different setting than my usual routine, and loved it all. We'd go tubing and water skiing, and lie out in the sun. We'd take trips around the lake in our boat, and when I was old enough, I'd take the boat out for a spin by myself from time to time.
One year, I even went swimming in the middle of a hurricane just to keep some silly daily swimming streak alive with my Uncle.
I had so much independence back then, doing stuff that I'd never let my daughter do on her own at that age. I'd go on walks through the woods alone, hoping to reach "Mint Cove" or even further out to "Boy Scout Cove" (as we called it), looking for interesting rocks or other finds. When I was really young, my Mom and Dad would take us out there to bury a "time capsule" and then leave ourselves a little map so that maybe we could find it the following year.
Funny, though, I don't ever remember finding it when we went back and looked, but maybe we did. The map-making and the search were the best part anyway.
None of my time alone could be recreated today. Whether I was wandering around, boating, swimming, or playing in the cabin, I was either connected to the internet or within range of a phone. We have a few photos and videos, but none like you'd have today. There wasn't a phone in sight.
Heck, the whole community of cabins shared only one single land-line telephone in the laundry shack.
Speaking of phones, one summer when I was about 12 or 13, my Uncle and I would drive into town most every evening and use a calling card from the payphone at the Mobile station to make calls back home. I can remember hanging out in his maroon Oldsmobile, in the dark, under the only light in the parking lot of the gas station. The windows were down, my elbow hanging out the passenger window, as I enjoyed the cool night air, listening to Billy Joel or Jars of Clay. He'd be in front of the car, taking care of business on the phone as I patiently waited to make a call of my own to check on things, which was mostly just wrestling gossip with my friends.
I can't quite describe the feeling as I sat there in the car, but I felt "grown up." I may have been only 12 or 13 that summer when we made the trips to the payphone, but it was definitely something I would never get to do at home. When it wasn't hockey season, I didn't do much at home besides play video games or surf the internet looking for wrestling news, so I was most definitely not "cool," and certainly wouldn't be hanging out in a car listening to music late into the evening.
Sitting in that car, I felt that must be how "the grown-ups" feel. They get to do what they want, whenever they want. I wasn't just a "kid" anymore. I didn't have a bedtime. I was out and about.
I finally felt cool, if even for just a moment.
Then we'd head back to the cabins for card games and snacks before heading off to bed after midnight and doing it all over in the morning.
Feeling cool didn't last long, especially when school started again in September. However, those memories will last the long haul.
My entire extended family stopped going on these trips at some point between 2000 and 2010. Not all at once. No "big decision" or "announcement." It just... ended.
The kids from my generation all grew up and entered adult life, with jobs and other responsibilities that prevented them from taking the multi-week trips, making the place feel empty. The cabins and the property they sat on were sold by the family that owned them to a larger business. As the cost of renting continued to climb, when compared to other vacations, my parents' generation decided it was time to explore different places and try new things. Sadly, the older generation, which had discovered the place decades earlier, had also begun to leave us.
It was a sad combination of events that led to the end of a decades-long tradition.
I don't think we're a special case in that regard.
Unfortunately, in our modern world, I believe that has happened to many families. Traditions slowly slip away, and everyone is busy doing their thing. Before you know it, all that's left are memories. It's why nostalgia is so big for us Millennials, who bridged that gap between the "old" world and the "new" and remember how good it once was.
Back in 1988, a movie hit theaters that, now as an adult, always reminds me of those summers in Maine. From the family togetherness at a lakeside cabin to the humorous scenes where things don't go exactly as planned, and the scenes where the children seek their independence and hang out with the locals, The Great Outdoors has always brought back a flood of memories.
Starring Dan Aykroyd as the insufferable Roman Craig and John Candy as the big-hearted Chet Ripley, this comedy classic captures the laughter, chaos, and warmth of a summer getaway gone gloriously off the rails. Set on the fictional shores of Lake Potowotominimac in Wisconsin, the film follows the clashing personalities of Chet and Roman during a lakeside family vacation. Soon, a series of misadventures, from raccoons rummaging through the kitchen garbage to a wildlife encounter at "the bear dump," threaten to derail the family harmony.
The Great Outdoors marked a bold pivot for writer-producer John Hughes, the legendary filmmaker behind iconic films such as The Breakfast Club (1985), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986), and the National Lampoon's Vacation series. Trading Hughes' traditional high school hallways and teen-focused films for the pine-scented wilderness, Hughes crafted an adult-focused comedy that blended slapstick with heartfelt family ties, directed by Howard Deutch in their third collaboration. The two had worked together on 1986's Pretty in Pink and Some Kind of Wonderful in 1987.
Originally titled Big Country, the film was renamed to The Great Outdoors to avoid clashing with Tom Hanks’ Big. Hughes’ script drew plot points from his own family vacations, which, given his Chicago upbringing, were most likely in Wisconsin's lake country, similar to The Great Outdoors. He infused the story with his own true-life moments, such as campfire ghost stories and family squabbles.
Universal Pictures kicked off Production in fall 1987, with a modest budget that balanced on-location shoots with studio "magic." Released on June 17, 1988, The Great Outdoors earned $41.4 million domestically and $43.4 million worldwide. The critics immediately hated the film, and it currently scores 21/100 on Metacritic and 40% on Rotten Tomatoes. Even Roger Ebert called it a "comedic misfire," but, once again proving that critics don't have the same tastes as the movie-going public, audiences embraced the film, awarding it a B+ on CinemaScore.
Production wasn't entirely smooth sailing, though. The original ending had Roman's twin daughters dragged across the lake by a giant mechanical fish, with Aykroyd's character coming to the rescue. When the fish prop sank (literally and figuratively), the team pivoted to the now-iconic bear chase finale in a stroke of genius that has since become the movie-stealing scene.
Filming in October also raised concerns about the weather. Frequent rain and even a freak snow flurry during the water skiing scene caused problems. The crew used lighting tricks and summer wardrobe to fake the summer season. Practical effects, such as fake trees and real animals (like Bart the Bear), added a tangible charm that helped ground the comedy in reality.
The Great Outdoors also had a tight 90-day filming schedule, creating a logistical problem. Hughes, known for his hands-on approach, was often on the set, tweaking dialogue to enhance the chemistry between John Candy and Dan Aykroyd. One minor crisis cast members frequently retell is when a raccoon escaped from its handler, briefly halting the kitchen-raid scene until it was coaxed back into place with peanut butter.
Hughes had a knack for creating fast scripts, often writing them in a matter of days or weeks, and The Great Outdoors was no exception. Reportedly penning the first draft in just a few days, he relied heavily on his own childhood memories of chaotic family trips. These personal touches to the script were a hallmark of all Hughes's work, giving it an authentic humor that resonated with audiences.
Set in the fictional town of Pechoggin, Wisconsin, the movie was actually filmed primarily in and around Bass Lake, California, a beautiful spot just 14 miles outside of Yosemite National Park's southern entrance. Budget constraints, mostly reliable weather (save that one snow flurry), and Bass Lake's stunning crystal waters and pine forests made it a perfect stand-in for the Upper Midwest.
To me, the backdrop feels straight out of my childhood summers in Maine, with lush trees, wild animals, and the allure of adventure.
"Wally and Juanita's Perk's Pine Lodge" and Pines Bar scenes were shot at Ducey's Bass Lake Lodge, known today as The Pines Resort at Bass Lake. Located within Madera County, the historic Lodge dates back to the 1940s, with the resort's old log-cabin vibe evoking cozy lakeside evenings of friends and fellowship around a fire.
An unfortunate grease fire destroyed the wooden mountain lodge in 1988, just as the movie was being released in theaters. The stone chimneys and slate porch were the only things that remained standing after futile attempts to put out the fire. The restaurant, Ducey's on the Lake, reopened in 1991 at the new Pines Resort at Bass Lake. Photos of the original Ducey's Lodge and sign are still hanging at the entrance.
The final dance scene during the credits was filmed at the original Lodge, brimming with locals as extras, capturing the communal joy of the "end of summer" celebration.
"The Ol' 96'er" restaurant, in which Chet takes up the challenge of chowing down a 96-ounce steak, was filmed at Ducey's Bar & Grill, located near the shores of Bass Lake. For the most part, the establishment's current popularity stems from its connection to the comedy film, complete with posters from The Great Outdoors and other memorabilia.
The cabin where the Ripley family stays, "The Loon's Nest," was modeled after a rustic cabin, similar to the Ducey Lodge cabins. It was built on the Universal Studios backlot in Los Angeles, and the same set was also used as "Bob's Country Bunker" in the 1980 film The Blues Brothers. It would appear later in Naked Gun 33 1/3 and the television series Coach.
The interior shots of the cabin, despite looking perfectly rustic, were meticulously crafted soundstage sets, allowing for controlled lighting and the famous “raccoon raid” practical effects.
Some sweeping shots of granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees from Yosemite National Park provided the film with an epic backdrop.
Local residents near Bass Lake played integral roles in the film, serving as extras and background actors. In a KingsRiverLife.com article, Rhonda Salisbury, a Bass Lake native, recalls her time dancing with John Candy at Ducey's, as well as riding a Ferris Wheel with Candy and his son. She described him as a "teddy bear who makes everyone laugh."
Local extras lent the film a communal feel, referring to it as a "summer camp for adults," characterized by pranks, good cheer, and laughter. Bass Lake families joined the cast when filming was done for the day, their genuine enthusiasm mirroring the film’s family plot. Candy’s warmth off-screen, often chatting with locals over beers or softball games, and Aykroyd’s quick wit created an atmosphere as lively as a summer camp talent show with sing-alongs to his Blues Brothers songs.
When the actors and crew genuinely enjoy working together, that infectious energy often translates to the screen, making the on-screen chemistry feel natural and more authentic.
Touches of Wisconsin were purposefully added, featuring local favorites like Leinenkugel and Lowenbrau beer, a nod to the state's rich brewing heritage. Hughes likely drew inspiration and added personal touches of Wisconsin from his own family vacations in Eau Claire or Lake Geneva, a short ride away from his Chicago home.
Bass Lake's tourism surged 20% after the release of the movie, with "Great Outdoors" tours, T-shirts, and other memorabilia still thriving today. The Great Outdoors still resonates with movie fans and vacation-goers today because the movie taps into that universal childhood experience of being a little out of one's element in the wilderness while facing challenges (even if they are just abrasive relatives), and coming out at the end of summer with some wild stories. That sense of adventure and danger, combined with the love of family, truly makes it feel like a "summer camp" movie for adults.
It’s not just about the location, but the spirit of letting loose, embracing the unexpected, and forging stronger bonds through shared (mis)adventures. This is why it resonates so deeply with me, and anyone who spent their youth in a similar lakeside setting.
The snappy dialogue between Dan Aykroyd and John Candy seems realistic and familiar. The pair's Toronto roots and real-life friendship, forged in the 1970s at the Second City improv group in Toronto, was the movie's real heart and soul. Candy's Chet Ripley plays the patient and lovable everyman who just wants to have a good time with his family. Aykroyd's Roman Craig is a brash Wall Street conman, and the dynamic between Chet and Roman fuels gags, such as Roman's iconic "you know what they make hotdogs out of?" dig at Chet's culinary tastes.
The answer is lips and assholes, by the way.
Hollywood gossip has it that Bill Murray was the first choice for Roman, but with Murray on a break from acting, Candy pushed for Aykroyd, which proved to be a choice that sparked magic. A shared history that ranged from Saturday Night Live to The Blues Brothers, and beyond, made every statement, barb, quip, and backhanded complement feel effortless.
In her film debut, Annette Bening appeared as Kate Craig, Roman's wife. Her quiet charm in the film showcased her ability and foreshadowed her destined future stardom. Stephanie Garacy's Connie Ripley brought a calm and warmth to balance the male lead's zaniness.
At the same time, the young actors who played Buck Ripley and Camie Craig, Chris Young and Lucy Deakins, nailed the teenage summer romance subplot. Deakins, who later earned a Harvard degree and became an attorney, added a spunky rebellious edge to her "townie" character that played well opposite Chris Young's quiet and calm portrayal of Buck.
The show-stealer was Bart the Bear, a real 1,700-pound Kodiak who played Jody, the bald-headed bear. Trained by Doug and Lynne Seus, Bart was a professional, having appeared in White Fang and Legends of the Fall, but his dislike for the bald-headpiece (frequently swatted off in frustration) caused long shooting days. The bear chase scene at the end of the movie was choreographed with many treats and stunt doubles.
The Great Outdoors is a trivia goldmine, packed with nuggets that amplify its nostalgic allure:
John Candy grew a beard to differentiate Chet from some of his other characters, but the producers nixed the idea, fearing it would hide his trademark folksy quality. Photos of a bearded Candy on set are a rare find, but reportedly out there. Unfortunately, I was unable to locate any.
In the porch scene, where Chet and Roman discuss what they "see" when they look at the lake, both are drinking out of Burger King Star Wars promotional cups —a quintessential 80s Easter egg that resonates with my generation's childhood. A tangible piece of 80s marketing and childhood collecting, I feel like we all had cabinets full of those fast food collector cups at one point.
As a nostalgic nugget for us '90s kids, the waitress at "The Ol' 96'er," played by Nancy Lenehan, was also the voice of Helen Henny in Chuck E. Cheese's band from 1983 to 1991.
There are a few deleted scenes, some of which were teased in the trailer. Moments like Chet chatting with a moose head or Roman's long dinner belch were shown in advertisements but removed from the movie's final cut. The desire for a "Hughes Cut" or extended version of this film, as well as any other John Hughes film, is a constant fan wish, but one we will, unfortunately, likely not get.
For those interested, extended scenes of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles are now available, which, in my opinion, significantly change the film we know and love.
With both leading actors having appeared in The Blues Brothers, the soundtrack to The Great Outdoors contains links to the film. The song "Dragboat" was performed by Aykroyd and his band, The Elwood Blues Revue, for the soundtrack. The song "Land of a Thousand Dances," by Wilson Pickett, was used in both films.
There is also a post-credits scene in this film, a rare occurrence for its time. In it, the raccoons once again appear to chat about how Jody (the bear) is bald "on both ends" now. It was a last-minute addition to the film, and one that delights audiences with its "cheeky" humor. An unexpected bonus, especially in the 80s, for those who stuck around to the end of the credits.
There was a reboot planned in 2017 that (thankfully) fizzled out, starring Kevin Hart. Aykroyd is currently shopping for a sequel, which has been in development since 2021. Titled The Great Outlaws, Aykroyd's Roman gets involved in a Ponzi scheme and entangles himself with the Federal government. Of course, the movie would have to go ahead without John Candy. Even if his passing was acknowledged, Candy and Chet Ripley are irreplaceable to the franchise, and it would be hard to connect to the original film other than using the Roman Craig character.
One small, yet noticeable, moment in the film's early minutes sparked several conversations online among modern viewers. The scene occurred when the Ripley's first arrived at Wally and Juanita's Perk's Pine Lodge. The family, still in the car, puts their hands together and says "Our Lady of Victory, Pray for Us!" before heading inside.
On Reddit, some are surprised that an openly Catholic moment would be included in a film (especially when viewed through a 2025 lens where being Christian in Hollywood is almost taboo). John Hughes was known to be raised as and was a practicing Catholic.
His movies often explored themes relevant to Catholicism, including family, tradition, and morality. While he didn't explicitly make Christian films, his faith likely influenced his storytelling and character development. His characters often grapple with issues of faith and belonging, and his movies frequently feature Catholic imagery or settings. Home Alone, one of Hughes' most successful films, features several Christian images, like the church and nativity scenes, as well as Kevin crossing himself while praying over his meal. A cross can also be seen during the closing moments of the film hanging over the fireplace mantle.
Connie Ripley's (Stephanie Faracy) consistently quirky and colorful wardrobe was a deliberate choice by the costume designer Marilyn Vance. The brightly, slightly mismatching outfits were designed to reflect her warm, somewhat eccentric personality, contrasting sharply with her sister Kate (Annette Bening)'s more reserved, chic look. Subtle visual cues like this define the characters before they speak and are one of the more interesting yet overlooked aspects of Hollywood.
There are a few "goofs" in the film, but most noticeable to me is when the family arrives back at home from "the Ol' 96'er." They find that the raccoons have entered the house, torn through the garbage, and littered the house with half-eaten food and other refuse. When someone points out the maggots in the trash, the over-stuffed Chet runs to the bathroom to throw up. The family crowds around the outside of the bathroom door, and it is then that you can see Dan Aykroyd counting down from three so that everyone runs screaming at the same time. A minor gaffe, but one I find a funny peek "behind the magic."
For ‘80s and ‘90s kids, the film is a reminder of the pre-digital world, where fun times meant evenings by the lake swiping at mosquitoes, not swiping a phone screen. No smartphones or Netflix, just a cabin, a flashlight, and a fishing pole, a BBQ grill, and the promise of a new summer friend or a s'mores-fueled night by the fire. Candy's heartfelt dad jokes and folksy charm pull me back to those days. I can even smell the piney scent of a forest and hear the call of a loon bouncing across the lake as I think back.
The cultural context of The Great Outdoors only enhances my nostalgia. Released amid a slew of VHS rentals and cable TV marathons, The Great Outdoors was a family movie night staple for many. Hysterical lines like "Big bear! Big bear chase me!" are still repeated by fans of the film. While not a film about summer "camp," the lakeside cabin retreat at Perk's Pine Lodge makes it feel like such. Great Outdoors joined a wave of summer "camp" films, like 1987's Ernest Goes to Camp and 1988's Troop Beverly Hills. It was followed by television's Nickelodeon's Salute Your Shorts in 1991, as well as movies like Camp Nowhere in 1994, and Bushwhacked and Heavyweights in 1995. These movies celebrated the goofy, communal spirit of summers spent outdoors.
From a modest box office hit to a cult classic, The Great Outdoors endures as a nostalgic powerhouse. Fans on X share clips of the bear chase and quote Chet’s steak-eating bravado, with several posts from this year (2025) still referring to it as "the ultimate summer vibe." The film portrays 1980s cultural and comedy trends, blending slapstick with family warmth in a way that paved the way for several future John Hughes classics, such as Home Alone and Uncle Buck, both of which star John Candy. Its lasting appeal lies in more than just the jokes, but in the comforting familiarity of its setting and themes: lakeside log cabins, cozy community lodges, the challenges of family, the joy of summer freedom, and the unexpected adventures that make life worth living.
The Great Outdoors remains a beloved bit of summer, a testament to family vacations gone awry. Its slapstick humor and heartfelt moments, anchored by the unforgettable John Candy and Dan Aykroyd, continue to resonate with audiences today, transporting them back to a simpler time of lazy, lakeside summer adventures.
I know it does for me.
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