At Bucknell, educational opportunities extend beyond the classroom, inviting students to engage with the natural landscapes that surround them. The Outdoor Education & Leadership (OEL) program stands at the forefront of this initiative, providing students with unique opportunities to explore the great outdoors while developing critical life skills. OEL is dedicated to fostering student leadership, teamwork and environmental stewardship through various programs and events.
The Rental Outfitting Center
One of the cornerstones of the OEL program is the Rental and Outfitting Center, which equips students with the gear necessary for their outdoor escapades. From camping essentials to kayaking equipment, the center offers a wide range of rentals that cater to diverse interests. This resource is designed to be affordable for students, faculty and staff, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to embark on outdoor adventures without breaking the bank.
Bison Bike Rentals
Bucknell’s Bison Bikes program allows students to reserve bikes for an entire semester at no cost, with short-term and summer rentals available. Each bike comes equipped with a helmet and lock, promoting safety and encouraging a sustainable mode of transportation across campus. For those who own personal bikes, the Basecamp facility, located in Tustin, provides repair services and maintenance assistance that allow students to keep their bikes in excellent condition.
Climbing Wall
Another exciting feature of the OEL program is the indoor climbing wall located in the Gerhard Fieldhouse. With walls exceeding 12 feet in height and a variety of training options, the climbing wall is perfect for both novice and experienced climbers. Open five days a week during the academic year, the facility provides complimentary rentals for climbing shoes and chalk so students can make the most out of their climbing experience.
Adventure Trips
OEL’s adventure trips allow students to immerse themselves in nature. Each semester, students can participate in weekend outings that cover a variety of activities, ranging from camping and backpacking to hiking. Most trips are offered at no cost, covering transportation, food and gear.
Two upcoming events provide great opportunities for students to enhance their outdoor skills. On Friday, Oct. 18, OEL will offer a “Camp Cooking in the Grove” session from 5-8 p.m. At this session, hosted in the grove, students can learn and practice outdoor cooking techniques. Additionally, a “Backpacking the West Rim Trail” trip is scheduled for Oct. 26-27, offering an exciting chance to explore the stunning vistas of the Tioga State Forest. While both of these events are fully booked at the moment, students are encouraged to join the waitlists!
For those seeking even more immersion in the outdoors, extended break trips provide opportunities to travel beyond Pennsylvania. In recent years, these trips have taken students snorkeling in Iceland, hiking through Utah’s stunning landscapes and even trekking in Patagonia.
BuckWild
For incoming students eager to make connections and embrace the outdoors, the BuckWild pre-orientation program offers an exciting introduction to the natural beauty surrounding Bucknell. This immersive five day experience includes activities such as hiking, backpacking, kayaking and rock climbing. BuckWild allows new students to hone their outdoor skills while building lasting friendships, creating a sense of belonging from day one.
Employment Opportunities
Do you want to work for OEL and help coordinate some of the programs described above? Then apply for a position with OEL! The OEL program provides many valuable employment opportunities for students. Positions are currently available at the Rental and Outfitting Center, Bison Bikes and the climbing wall. These roles not only offer hands-on experience in outdoor leadership but also cultivate essential skills such as customer service and equipment maintenance.
Staff at the Rental Center will assist with providing gear for trips as well as for individual student endeavors. Bison Bikes technicians handle bike rentals and repairs, while climbing wall staff facilitate climbing sessions and maintain a safe climbing environment for all. Interested students can apply through Bison@Work, and applications are due at the end of November. Hiring is conducted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Becoming a Trip Leader
The OEL Trip Leader position is a volunteer opportunity for students who are especially passionate about the outdoors, allowing them to lead various wilderness excursions. Trip Leaders will receive intensive training in skills such as wilderness medicine and general leadership with no prior experience required. They will facilitate group activities, engage in discussions and create a positive environment for participants. Leaders must commit to leading at least one Adventure Trip per semester. After training, trip leaders may also guide trips for BuckWild. Applications to become an OEL Trip Leader are open until Oct. 25.
The Outdoor Education & Leadership program at Bucknell offers invaluable experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom and into the great outdoors. Whether students are seeking adventure, looking to develop leadership skills or simply wanting to connect with nature, OEL provides countless opportunities for students to grow and thrive. So grab a paddle, pitch a tent or climb some rocks—the adventures that await you at Bucknell are just outside your door!
