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Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor Adventures are Calling 

Outdoor Adventures helps students explore the outdoors, learn new skills, and connect with others through shared experiences. Whether you are looking for your first outdoor activity or your next challenge, our programs provide opportunities to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and create lasting memories.

From local excursions to weekend adventures, there are countless ways to discover the outdoors while at Penn State. Step outside your comfort zone, meet new people, and experience everything the natural world has to offer.

Trips and Clinics provide guided outdoor experiences for participants of all skill levels. Activities may include hiking, backpacking, caving, mountaineering, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, and more.

Whether you want to explore a new destination or learn a new skill, our experienced staff are here to support your journey. Most registration fees include transportation, equipment, instruction, and food for overnight trips, making it easy to get started.

Custom Trips

Get your group or organization outside by booking a custom trip. Options include backpacking, hiking, caving, canoeing/kayaking/stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), whitewater rafting, and rock climbing. Our experienced guides will work with your organization to design a trip that meets your desired goals and outcomes.

Located in the IM Building, the bouldering and climbing wall offers opportunities for climbers of all experience levels. The 16-foot bouldering wall is available whenever the IM Building is open, while the climbing wall features climbing routes, crack systems, a rappel ledge, and instructional spaces.

Whether you are trying climbing for the first time or refining advanced techniques, there is a challenge waiting for you. Visit during open recreation hours and discover a new way to stay active.

Group Programs provide customized experiences designed to meet the goals of student organizations, residence halls, classes, and campus groups. Activities can focus on teamwork, leadership, communication, problem-solving, trust-building, or simply having fun together.

Programs are available at the Challenge Course at Stone Valley Recreation Area or at the IM Building. Strengthen your group, build meaningful connections, and create an experience tailored to your needs.

Gear Rental makes outdoor recreation more accessible by providing affordable access to high-quality equipment. Students can rent gear for backpacking, camping, paddling, rock climbing, winter sports, fishing, scuba diving, and other outdoor activities.

Whether you are planning a weekend trip or trying a new activity for the first time, we have the equipment you need to get started. Reserve your gear online and start planning your next adventure.

Get Climbing with Campus Rec

Climbing at Penn State is easy to fit into your routine with up-to-date hours, classes, and wall availability right at your fingertips. Using the Campus Recreation app, you can check schedules, register for clinics, and plan your next climb—all while finding a community that supports your growth and adventure.

Find Hours, Classes, and Access
A climber looks up at the rock face while dangling

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Every Penn State student's journey is shaped by care, opportunity, and community. When you give to Student Affairs, you help create the experiences that help students learn, lead, and thrive—on campus and beyond.

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Our events and programs are open to all students regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, or any other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all.