The Outdoor Recreation Center has been a well-kept secret at Iowa State for the past 30 years.

This program began in May of 1972 to provide rental equipment for outdoor activities such as sailing, said Scott White, business manager for recreation services.

Since then, the program has grown into a resource center that offers extended weekend or day trips, he said.

“Usually the trips begin on Friday afternoon or Saturday morning and last until Sunday,” he said. “Most of the trips are in Iowa and are to state parks, state forest areas and include rock-climbing, canoe trips and hiking.”

The extended trips are usually on the breaks during the academic year, White said.

“The van ride is an experience in itself,” said Mike Harvey, associate director for recreational services. “It is generally a positive atmosphere. You meet so many interesting people.”

The trips also provide a chance to meet students from various cultures, Harvey said.

“On one trip, with 11 student participants, eight different countries were represented,” he said.

The cost of the programs and trips is also very economical, Harvey said.

“The purpose of the outdoor rec is to provide low cost, economical access to a wide variety of outdoor experiences and equipment to students, faculty and staff,” he said.

Harvey said the average cost of the weekend trips are about $25 to $30 a day. The workshops cost $6 to $8. Transportation and supply prices may affect the fees.

Most of the activities are for beginners and are open to anybody, White said.

Approximately eight to 16 people go on each trip, depending on where the activity is and what permit is obtained, Harvey said.

“Usually the programs fill up very quickly,” White said. “They provide both sport and relaxation.”

Renting equipment is still a large part of the program, White said.

Keith Davis, senior in management information systems, said he uses the rental services both for personal reasons and for clubs.

“I think that it is an excellent resource,” he said. “It has made it possible for me to have experiences that I wouldn’t normally had have the chance to try.”