Build Stronger Connections with Group Programs
Whether you’re part of a student organization, university department, or a group of friends looking to strengthen teamwork and communication, our Group Bonding & Development Programs are designed to bring people together. These fun, engaging, and often physically active programs promote trust, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration in ways that leave lasting impact.
All experiences are guided by trained facilitators who customize activities to meet your group’s unique goals. Programs range from high-energy adventure courses to teamwork-focused ground activities, with flexible options available at Stone Valley, on campus, or even at your preferred location.
High Ropes Course
Work together while suspended in the trees! Your group will be challenged with a series of aerial elements, split into smaller teams of up to eight. A facilitator guides the experience and debriefs with your group afterward. Plan for 3–4 hours of bonding, trust-building, and fun.
Team Dynamics
Stay (mostly) on the ground while developing teamwork and leadership skills. Activities focus on collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Choose from a 2–4 hour session on-site or bring the program to a space that works for your group.
Archery Tag
It’s like dodgeball—if you added bows and foam-tipped arrows. Archery Tag offers high-energy fun in a safe and inclusive environment. Can be booked solo or added to another group experience. Duration: 1–2 hours.
Climbing Experiences
Take team bonding to new heights—literally. Our climbing programs provide shared experiences that are both fun and challenging.
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- IM Building
At 40 feet tall with 16 lanes, our climbing wall is a great place for both beginners and experienced climbers. All safety and technical needs are handled by trained staff so your group can focus on the climb.
Available to Penn State University Park affiliates and registered student groups only.
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- Stone Valley Recreation Area
This 50-foot tower offers vertical challenges and the thrill of a Giant Swing. Choose up to 6 climbing lanes or combine with the swing for an unforgettable 2–4 hour session of adventure and team support.
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- Stone Valley Recreation Area
A 50-foot climbing wall with 11 different routes, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced challenges. Plan a 2–4 hour session tailored to your group’s comfort level and goals.
Custom Outdoor 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.
Retreat and Space Rentals
Stone Valley offers a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for retreats, team-building programs, meetings, and student group gatherings. With scenic views, flexible facilities, and access to outdoor activities, it’s an ideal setting for groups looking to connect, recharge, and learn together.
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CE Lodge
The Civil Engineering Lodge provides accommodations for various group events including conferences, workshops, retreats, and meetings. The lodge can accommodate 80 people banquet-style with tables and chairs, although 40 is ideal for groups that want to have the option of non-banquet-style seating or the ability to move around the space. A spacious wrap-around porch offers a gorgeous view of the surrounding property.
- The Civil Engineering Lodge is available for day retreats year-round.
- It will be closed during the University’s Winter Holiday.
- The Civil Engineering Lodge is available for overnight retreats from April 1 through October 31.
Amenities
- Large Meeting Room with hardwood floors and stone fireplace
- Small Meeting Room
- Commercial Kitchen (only for use to store and organize prepared food)
- Inside and Outside Restrooms
- Small Covered Pavilion
- Fire Circle
- Sand Volleyball Court
- A/V Equipment available upon request
CE Lodge Rental Rates
CE Lodge Base Rate Additional Hour Special Event Rate Additional Hour* Students $400
(up to 4 hrs.)$50 per hour $800
(up to 4 hrs.)$100 per hour Departments $520
(up to 4 hrs.)$100 per hour $1,040
(up to 4 hrs.)$200 per hour Campus Rec Member $550
(up to 4 hrs.)$105 per hour $1,100
(up to 4 hrs.)$210 per hour Campus Rec
Non-Member$575
(up to 4 hrs.)$110 per hour $1,150
(up to 4 hrs.)$220 per hour Lodge Cabins
Overnight accommodations at the lodge are only available from April 1 through October 31. Use of the cabins is not included with the lodge rental. 12 cabins are available for rental, each including accommodations for six guests. Please note these cabins are sleeping cabins only. They do not contain heat, electricity or any other furnishings.
Lodge Cabin Rental Rates
CE Cabins Nightly Rate per Cabin Special Events Rate per Cabin* Students $60 $120 Departments $60 $120 Campus Rec Member $120 $240 Campus Rec Non-Member $120 $240 Lodge Cabin Information
- Arrival and departure times are determined by the group’s needs
- A four-hour minimum charge applies at all times
- Special Event Rates apply for any group of 50 or more
- Staffing charges will be added to all rentals and can range from $10-$30 per hour depending on the time of the rental
- The Civil Engineering Lodge is available for day retreats year-round.
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The Mineral Industries Pavilion is available for rental from April through October and provides covered seating for groups as large as 80. Additional seating is available in the surrounding picnic area. The Pavilion is only available by reservation.
- The pavilion is available from April 1 through October 31.
Amenities
- Electricity
- Grill
- Fire Circle
- Nearby Sand Volleyball Court
- Nearby Restroom Facilities
Rental Rates
Additional fee applies for groups exceeding the pavilion occupancy.
MI Pavilion Base Rate Additional Hour Students $60 (up to 4 hrs.) $10 per hour Departments $95 (up to 4 hrs.) $15 per hour Campus Rec Member $105 (up to 4 hrs.) $20 per hour Campus Rec Non-Member $115 (up to 4 hrs.) $25 per hour