The Outdoor Adventure program with UVA Rec offers a wide variety of ways you can enjoy the outdoors. We have equipment you can rent, instructional programs, adventure trips and a 2,800 sq ft climbing center. However, our most valuable benefit is our community of outdoor enthusiasts eager to help you explore Virginia and beyond.
Slaughter Climbing Center
Slaughter is the home of our Climbing Center with over 2,000 square feet of climbing surface. This is THE place to be for everyone who enjoys climbing. See you at the wall!
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Gear Rental
To help you get outdoors, we have all the gear you need to have a proper adventure. From hiking to camping to kayaking, we can set you up with the high-quality gear to make your trip amazing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much equipment can I rent?
Each person is allowed to rent two boats and enough camping equipment for four people.
Can I rent equipment if I am not a UVA Rec member or UVA student?
Yes, non-members can rent equipment at the community rental rate.
Who is eligible for student pricing?
UVA students are eligible when they are currently registered for classes. During the summer, if you are registered for fall classes or taking summer classes, you are eligible for student pricing.
What happens if Slaughter Rec Center is closed when I need to return equipment?
During periods when Slaughter Recreation Center is closed for breaks or holidays, renters will need to return gear the next day Slaughter is open. The charge will be based on the number of days of the trip instead of when the gear is returned.
What do I need to transport a canoe or kayak on my car?
No additional equipment is necessary to transport a canoe or kayak. They can be transported on cars with or without roof racks and we provide the cam straps and roof pads (for cars without roof racks). The Outdoor Adventure staff may assist you in securing the water craft on your car on Fridays between 3-6pm, but we take no responsibility for any damage that occurs once the boat is rented.
What happens if I need to cancel my reservation?
Refunds for cancelled reservations are permitted until the day the reservation begins.
I have a question not listed, how do I contact Outdoor Adventure?
Yes. You can email outdooradventure@virginia.edu with your question.
Adventures & Instruction
The two best things our Outdoor Instructional programs do are they get you up and running with the skills and confidence to venture out on your own and they connect you with other people with similar interests. Programs range from wilderness first aid to kayaking (beginner through advanced) to bouldering competitions.
Don't let the price deter you. Check out the Cavalier Fund.
Adventure Jobs
Interested in leading Outdoor Adventure trips? If you like helping people experience the benefits of the outdoors, join our team!
Program Registration Date
Fall Registration Opens August 5
Registration Now Open!
Challenge Course
The Poplar Ridge Challenge Course provides unique and engaging team building opportunities. We simulate your team's problem-solving and communication skills while helping you bond and build trust. The challenge course contains dozens of activities at ground level and six different team-oriented high ropes elements. Indoor programming options are also available. Programs typically run for either half-days (up to 4 hours) or full days (5-8 hours) and can typically be scheduled any day of the week year round.
COAR
The University of Virginia's Cavalier Outdoor Adventure Retreat (COAR) is a unique three-day orientation, run by our Outdoor Adventure Program, that brings incoming first years on a camping trip to Shenandoah National Park. COAR attendees will get the chance to hike to waterfalls, enjoy scenic mountain views, stay in a primitive cabins or campgrounds and meet 10 of their closest friends. Each trip is led by two experienced student trip leaders.