University of Oregon Outdoor Program

Wouldn't it be great if there was a place where anyone can launch a wilderness trip of their dreams...

...a place where there was a free and open room with wilderness maps, guide books, magazines and other outdoor information...

...a place where transportation and quality equipment and experienced advice are readily available for any outdoor trip...

...a place that offered a wide variety of events, clinics and natural history classes....

...a place that nurtured a sense of community among outdoor folks such as yourself...

Wouldn't it be great if there was a place where people are encouraged to grow and develop leadership skills in an cooperative and experiential environment...

Welcome to the UO Outdoor Program!

For over three decades the Outdoor Program has been a place where motivated individuals have gathered to learn, share and enjoy a wide variety of outdoor adventures. The program at the U of O is recognized as one of the first and most unique outdoor adventure program in the country. Essentially the OP is a wilderness co-op; it doesn't offer trip packages to students, rather it empowers and helps participants organize and plan their own adventure ideas. Our "Common Adventure" format can be described as experiential, cost sharing, consensus lead, low cost, egalitarian, and participant initiated. All University of Oregon students are members of the Outdoor Program. If you're not a student at the UO, you can still participate in OP trips and events by joining the co-op for just $15 a year!

Common Adventure Trips
There are 150 -200 participant initiated outings launched each year covering a huge range of destinations, activities and skill levels. Actual trip expenses, work and decision making are shared equally among participants. Trips are open ended and fairly spontaneous, if the snow falls or the river comes up, a trip can appear on the board just a few days before it launches. Check the trip listings to keep up with what is posted; however you must come by or call to put your name on the trip sheet.

Events, Skill Clinics, and Natural History Courses
The OP hosts several interesting and inspirational slideshows, films and presentations. A variety of outdoor skill clinics, kayak pools sessions and natural history course are also scheduled. Most clinics require preregistration and fill quickly. Check the term schedule for a listing of current events and clinics. You can also receive weekly email alerts of upcoming trips and events.

Wilderness Resource Center
The OP Resource Center is filled with a variety of maps, guidebooks, dvds, handouts, and information for folks planning an OP trip or personal adventure. Our staff is also a great source of information. Also check out all the wilderness & environmental links we have collected.

Equipment Rental Program
The OP rental program offers an extensive line of outdoor gear and clothing at the Barn on 18th and University. Check for current rental hours.