Who are The Outdoor Boys? Social media in disbelief as their favorite content creator says 'Goodbye'

If you’ve ever gone down the YouTube rabbit hole of survival hacks, cabin building, or just wholesome family adventures, then you’ve probably come across The Outdoor Boys . It’s a channel led by Luke Nichols and his three sons—Tommy, Nate, and Jacob—and it’s been all about mixing wild outdoor skills with those heartwarming father-son moments. But just when their fanbase was booming, Luke dropped a surprise bomb: they’re stepping back from posting regularly. So, what’s the deal?


The Outdoor Boys started back in 2015 and it’s basically a window into the Nichols family’s outdoor life. We’re talking building off-grid cabins in Alaska, fishing trips, camping, and even nerf gun battles—yes, nerf guns in the wilderness! Luke, who’s originally from Anchorage, Alaska, is the brains behind it all, with his boys always right by his side. The family splits their time between Fairfax, Virginia, and a remote cabin up in Alaska, living that nature-immersed life and sharing it all with millions of fans.

The channel grew steadily over the years, but things really blew up in 2024. In just a year and a half, The Outdoor Boys gained over 12 million subscribers, hitting nearly 15 million total. Their videos racked up billions of views, with everything from tough survival challenges to fun family projects.

Then, in May 2025, Luke posted a heartfelt five-minute video called “Goodbye,” where he explained why they’re hitting pause on regular uploads. The main reasons? Fame got a little too intense, and he wants to focus on keeping his family safe and happy. With all the attention they suddenly got, it became harder for the family to have a normal life. Luke was worried about how the nonstop spotlight might affect his kids, and he wants to protect their privacy.

That “Goodbye” video blew up—13 million views in just three days.

Fans and the internet just can’t wrap their heads around it.

One user tweeted, “BREAKING: Outdoor Boys (14.8m subs) just announced they’re retiring the channel for now. One of the most wholesome creators stepping back because of fame and to focus on his kids and helping others. End of an era.”

Another said, “Outdoor Boys quits YouTube? Man came out of nowhere, made thousands of hours of solid videos, hit 14 million subs, then quits at the peak to protect his family. What a legend.”

And one more chimed in, “Outdoor Boys went out on top. In a world full of fake watches, rented Lambos, and scammy crypto courses, they did it right. Left when everyone wanted more. That rarely happens these days. Respect.”

The Outdoor Boys have definitely left a mark on the YouTube scene, showing off the beauty of nature and what family time really means. Their decision to step back reminds us that internet fame isn’t always as glamorous as it looks, and sometimes, you gotta put family first. Fans are still sending love and thanking them for all the amazing memories and adventures they shared.