Trips
Registrations will be open, in-person only, at the Outdoor Adventures Rental Center on Tuesday January 20th, the first day of the Spring semester.
The Outdoor Adventures Rental office will be open from 10 AM - 5 PM Monday through Friday. All trips have a limited number of spots available.
Our programs are available to all current CSUN students. We have trips for every skill level, from novice to expert. The guidelines below will help you select adventures that are right for you. If you’re unsure about your skill level, call or stop by the Outdoor Adventures office, and our staff will help you.
- Level 1: Adventure travel at its most relaxed pace for people seeking a remarkable experience with low-intensity
- Level 2: Great for outdoor novices and those new to active travel who are seeking more knowledge of the outdoor world
- Level 3: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for stimulating adventure in the great outdoors
- Level 4: Recommended for fit travelers with basic skills who want an exciting trip with the same fantastic outdoor experience with a little more physical intensity
Outdoor Adventure Participation Disclaimer
By signing up for a trip with Outdoor Adventures, you acknowledge and agree that you are responsible for assessing your own physical and mental capabilities prior to participation. While our trip leaders will make every effort to accommodate individual needs and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, it is important to understand that if the planned itinerary is determined to be beyond your physical or mental ability, adjustments may not be feasible.
In such cases, the trip leaders reserve the right to ask participants to leave the excursion and return to the starting point (CSUN) or a safe location at their own expense. Your safety and well-being are our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding that this policy is in place to ensure the best experience for all participants.
Please note that you need to sign up at the Outdoor Adventures office for our trips no later than 5pm the day before the scheduled date. Open spots fill up quickly, so sign up as early as possible.
Trip Pricing and Details
Backpacking
Intro to Backpacking: Los Padres National Forest
Date: 4/24 - 4/26
Student Price: $200
Learn the fundamentals of backcountry travel on this 3-day Intro to Backpacking trip in Los Padres National Forest. Designed for beginners, this experience focuses on building confidence and skills while exploring one of Southern California’s most beautiful and diverse wilderness areas.
Over three days, you’ll hike scenic trails through oak woodlands and chaparral-covered hills, carry everything you need on your back, and set up camp in remote, peaceful settings. Along the way, you’ll learn essential backpacking skills such as packing, camp setup, navigation basics, Leave No Trace principles, and backcountry safety.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- All related camping fees and permits
- 5 Meals
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be decided on during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventure Center. Look out for an email about the meeting a week before the trip departure date.
Strenuousness Level: 2
Camping
Camp and Explore: Palomar Mountain
Date: 2/06 - 2/08
Student Price: $225
Join us to the cool pine forests of Palomar Mountain on this 3-day camping adventure designed to unplug, explore, and reconnect with nature. Nestled high above Southern California, Palomar offers crisp mountain air, sweeping views, and star-filled night skies
Over three days, enjoy scenic hikes through oak and cedar forests, peaceful mornings at camp, and evenings gathered around the fire. Spend your time exploring nearby trails, visiting iconic viewpoints, or simply relaxing beneath towering trees. Palomar Mountain is also home to incredible wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and some of the best stargazing in the region.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- All related camping fees and permits
- 5 Meals
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be decided on during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventure Center. Look out for an email about the meeting a week before the trip departure date.
Strenuousness Level: 2
Winter Camp and Explore: Yosemite
Date: 2/20 - 2/22
Student Price: $225
Over three days, explore snow-covered meadows, frozen waterfalls, and iconic viewpoints framed by granite cliffs and towering pines. Spend your days on winter hikes through Yosemite Valley, and your evenings bundled up at camp beneath crisp mountain skies. The stillness of winter makes wildlife sightings more special and stargazing especially clear.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- All related camping fees and permits
- 5 Meals
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be be decided during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventures Center. Look out for an email about the meeting a week prior to the trip's departure.
Strenuousness Level: 2
Camp and Explore: San Simeon
Date: 3/06 - 3/09
Student Price: $225
Escape to California’s stunning Central Coast on this 3-day camping trip to San Simeon. Set between rugged cliffs and the Pacific Ocean, this seaside getaway offers fresh ocean air, scenic coastal views, and a relaxed pace perfect for unwinding. Spend your days exploring coastal trails, tide pools, and nearby beaches, or visiting iconic spots like Hearst Castle and the famous elephant seal rookery. Evenings are spent at camp listening to the waves, enjoying sunsets over the ocean, and sleeping under starry coastal skies This trip blends coastal adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for campers of all experience levels.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- All related camping fees and permits
- 5 Meals
- Experienced trip leaders who are conversational in American Sign Language
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be decided on during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventure Office. Look out for an email about the meeting a week before the trip departure date.
Strenuousness Level: 1
Canoe the Black Canyon
Date: 3/16 - 3/19
Student Price: $250
Canoe the gentle current of the majestic Colorado River through a sculpted black and red walled canyon. You’ll be self-contained, with only the gear in your boat, as we embark on a three-day journey to scout for big horn sheep standing on sheer cliff walls, experience secluded sauna caves, and float beneath the towering monolith of the Hoover Dam. At night, we’ll gather around a campfire and then hike to hot springs nestled within a narrow canyon pass.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- All paddling equipment (canoes, paddles, life jackets, etc.)
- All related camping fees and permits
- 8 Meals
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be decided on during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventure Office. Look out for an email about the meeting a week before the trip departure date.
Strenuousness Level: 3
Camp and Explore: Yosemite
Date: 4/03 - 4/05
Student Price: $225
Wander through the pristine wilderness of Yosemite National Park, the first park to be designated as a Green Space by the United States Government. Yosemite is filled with a lifetime’s worth of waterfalls and granite formations that fill the Valley. Join us as we spend a weekend exploring all the major spots of California’s greatest treasure. All experience levels are welcome.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- All related camping fees and permits
- Meals included while at Yosemite
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be decided on during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventure Office. Look out for an email about the meeting a week before the trip departure date.
Strenuousness Level: 1
Camp and Explore the Eastern Sierra
Date: 5/01 - 5/03
Student Price: $225
Escape to California’s Eastern Sierra on this 3-day camp and explore adventure featuring dramatic granite peaks, alpine lakes, and wide-open mountain landscapes. We’ll basecamp and spend our days hiking scenic trails, exploring nearby highlights, and soaking in the crisp mountain air, with evenings back at camp enjoying meals, sunsets, and star-filled skies. Perfect for all experience levels, this trip blends outdoor adventure with relaxed exploration in one of California’s most stunning regions.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- All related camping fees and permits
- 5 Meals
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be decided on during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventure Office. Look out for an email about the meeting a week before the trip departure date.
Strenuousness Level: 1
Hiking
Day Hike: Sandstone Peak
Date: 2/13
Student Price: $20
Hike to the summit of Sandstone Peak, the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding ranges and the Pacific Ocean. This scenic day hike follows rugged trails through classic Southern California landscapes, ending at a panoramic summit perfect for a well-earned break. A rewarding adventure with big views packed into one day.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- Lunch
Meeting location: Outdoor Adventures Office
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be emailed to you a week prior to the start date of the trip.
Strenuousness Level: 1
Day Hike: Secret Stairs of Hollywood
Date: 4/03
Student Price: $20
Discover a hidden side of Los Angeles on this day hike through the Secret Stairs of Hollywood. We’ll wind through historic staircases tucked between neighborhoods, offering unique views of the city, classic homes, and the Hollywood Hills.
This urban hike blends light adventure with local history as we climb stairways built in the early days of L.A., explore quiet streets, and enjoy scenic overlooks along the way. It’s a fun, moderately active way to see the city from a new perspective and uncover spots most people pass right by.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- Lunch
Meeting Location: Outdoor Adventures Office
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be emailed to you a week prior to the start date of the trip.
Strenuousness Level: 1
Day Hike: Switzer Falls
Date: 4/24
Student Price: $20
Join us for a refreshing day hike to Switzer Falls, one of the San Gabriel Mountains’ most popular waterfall hikes. This scenic trail follows a shaded canyon with creek crossings, lush greenery, and rocky pathways that lead to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall.
Perfect for a relaxed yet rewarding outing, this hike offers a great balance of nature, movement, and stunning views. Whether you’re new to hiking or just looking for a fun day outdoors, Switzer Falls is an ideal escape from the city and a great way to enjoy the mountains in a single day.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- Lunch
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be emailed out to you a week prior to the trip's departure.
Strenuousness Level: 2
Snowboarding
Ski and Ride
Date: 2/28
Student Price: $100 + Rentals
Join us for an action-packed ski and snowboard day trip to Big Bear Mountain, perfect for students looking to hit the slopes and enjoy a winter escape. Big Bear offers great terrain for all levels, from first-time riders to experienced skiers and snowboarders.
Whether you’re learning for the first time or chasing runs all day, this Big Bear ski trip is the one for you!
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Experienced trip leaders
- Lift Ticket
- Ski/Snowboard Gear Rental (at an extra cost)
Not Included:
- Lunch
Meeting location: Outdoor Adventures Office
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be emailed to you a week prior to the start date of the trip.
Strenuousness Level: 2
Climbing
Intro To Climbing
Date: 4/17
Student Price: $15
Slip on your shoes and tie in! Outdoor rock climbing is a mental and physical challenge anyone can enjoy, regardless of strength or fear of heights. A full-day venture into the local hills will introduce you to the thrill of rock climbing in a noncompetitive atmosphere. By the end of the day you should feel comfortable with basic climbing knots, belaying, and introductory rock movement techniques. We’ll provide you with a variety of climbs for you to have fun and challenge yourself on. This is a great way to get away for the day whether you’re a first-time climber or a repeat adventurer.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- All climbing gear (harness, shoes, rope, chalk)
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- Lunch
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be emailed out to you a week prior to the trip's departure.
Strenuous Level: 1
Special Trips
*Special Trips will continue in the Spring 2026 Semester
Water Trips
Whitewater Rafting
Date: 4/24 - 4/26
Student Price: $275
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled 3-day camping adventure centered around whitewater rafting. This trip combines the thrill of navigating rushing rapids with the simplicity and camaraderie of life at camp. Over three days, you’ll spend your time rafting along stretches of the Kern River, learning paddling techniques, and working together as a team to tackle the water.
Perfect for both first-time rafters and experienced paddlers, this trip offers a balance of high-energy adventure and laid-back camping. From the rush of the rapids to peaceful evenings by the river, it’s an unforgettable outdoor experience built around water, teamwork, and fun.
Trip Includes:
- Transportation
- Group gear (tents, cooking equipment, etc.)
- Personal camping gear (sleeping bags, head lamp, ground pad, etc.)
- Tickets to go Whitewater Rafting
- All related camping fees and permits
- 5 Meals
- Experienced trip leaders
Not Included:
- 2 meals while traveling (will stop at restaurants)
Departure Time: Exact departure times will be decided on during the pre-trip meeting in the Outdoor Adventure Center. Look out for an email about the meeting a week before the trip departure date.
Strenuousness Level: 3
Cancellations
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Multi day trip cancellations
Cancellations made more than 14 days before the trip will be refunded for the full dollar amount, minus a 20% processing fee. Cancellations made less than 14 days before the trip are not eligible for a refund. Outdoor Adventures reserves the right to cancel any trip due to incompatible conditions for the activity. In the event Outdoor Adventures cancels the trip you will receive a full monetary refund.
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Single day trip cancellations
Cancellations made more than 14 days before the trip will receive a refund for the full dollar amount minus a $10 processing fee. Cancellations made less than 14 days before the trip are not eligible for a refund. Outdoor Adventures reserves the right to cancel any trip due to incompatible conditions for the activity. In the event Outdoor Adventures cancels the trip you will receive a full monetary refund.
-
Special trip cancellations
Special Trips arenon-refundable. If you are unable to attend the trip, the paying participant is ineligible for a refund (monetary or credity) or transfer onto another trip. Outdoor Adventures reserves the right to cancel a trip due to incompatible conditions for the activity. In the event Outdoor Adventures cancels the trip you will receive a full monetary refund.
Disclaimer
- Due to the nature of outdoor recreation all locations, activities and times are subject to change. We love Mother Nature but sometimes she's hard to plan around. Weather, water levels, trail conditions, roads closures, and fires can change any trip with little or no warning. We appreciate the patience, understanding and flexibility of all parties involved in our outings. If changes need to be made we will update our information in a timely manner and will notify registered participants as soon as possible.
- CSUN Outdoor Adventures, its employees and volunteers assume no liability for any damages arising from outings. All participants will be required to sign in a waiver and release. Please note that our trips are alcohol, smoking, tobacco, and illegal substance free.
- CSUN Outdoor Adventures is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen gear.