Outdoor Adventures, a unit of Campus Recreation, is now accepting group inquiries for UC Davis departments and campus-affiliated groups. Outdoor Adventures looks to provide students and Campus Recreation members with low-cost options for outdoor activities as well as equipment rentals. They also offer a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for faculty and staff.

Beck Van Horsen, assistant director at Outdoor Adventures, said a basic day of team-building consists of “a day of activities that are designed to build on skills critical to good teamwork, such as communication, problem-solving and leadership. These activities typically take place outside and require some movement, but we also mix in indoor activities which are more relaxed. We can work with every team to create their ideal day (or half day) of team building.”

For groups of all sizes

If you have a large group, Van Horsen said whitewater rafting is the best activity. 

“We can take up to 42 people on a day trip and it's a fun experience that requires teamwork and really bonds a group. If a group is interested in a longer activity, our camping trips are great for larger groups as well, and we can take folks to some of the most beautiful areas in California, like Lassen and Yosemite National Parks.” While these options are available year-round, they require a six-month lead time.

Outdoor Adventures also offers day hikes within the Auburn State Recreation Area and Tahoe National Forest. These hikes are only available from March through November and are typically done on weekends. 

Outdoor rock climbing takes place at the Cosumnes River Gorge, Auburn State Recreation Area and The Emeralds at Lake Tahoe. This runs from March through November on weekends, and no experience is required. Indoor rock climbing is available at the ARC, and Outdoor Adventures can rent out the rock wall for your group.

If your group is interested in a winter activity, snowshoeing runs from January through March. Guides will take you through the trails of the Sierra Nevada.

Packing light

Each activity has a separate packing list, Van Horsen said. “For a single day of team building, participants would just need to wear comfortable clothing, bring lunch and a water bottle. For longer activities, such as camping, participants would need to bring all of their clothing for the weekend, water bottle, etc., and Outdoor Adventures would provide food, camping equipment and transportation.”

Outdoor Adventures encourages departments to include team-building activities into their yearly budgeting process, making now an ideal time to connect with them. Interested groups and any other questions can go to Van Horsen for more information.