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REC Adventure Experience

Wilderness Orientation

When: Tuesday,  July 8th - Wednesday, July 9th 2025

Kick off your college journey with an unforgettable two-day orientation designed to build connections, confidence, and community!

On Day One, dive into a series of dynamic team-building activities where you'll meet your classmates, tackle exciting challenges, and forge new friendships. Through interactive games and problem-solving exercises, you’ll strengthen communication, trust, and collaboration. All essential skills for both college life and beyond. Afterwards, we'll enjoy college style cafeteria dinner, followed by crafts.

On Day Two, take your experience to new heights, literally, with an exhilarating rock climbing adventure! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, you'll have the chance to challenge yourself, celebrate your achievements, and support your peers in a fun, encouraging environment.

Come ready to explore, grow, and make memories that will last a lifetime!

To Register:

Cost per student is $100.00.

If you are interested in this program, please reach out to New Student and Family Programs at (760) 750-4930 or email them at orientation@csusm.edu.

What to Wear:

Please wear closed-toed shoes and athletic wear for our afternoon together as we will be moving around for an extended period of time. For the climbing portion, we recommend atheltic wear and socks for the rental shoes.

What to Bring: 

  • Sleeping bag: Pack your sleeping bag for your overnight stay at the dorms
  • Change of clothes: Pack an extra set of clothes for the following day.
  • Hat: Shield yourself from the sun by bringing a hat or cap.
  • Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun's glare with a pair of sunglasses.
  • Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the trip by bringing a reusable water bottle.
  • Snacks: Pack some energizing snacks to keep you fueled during the activities.
  • Personal toiletries: Don't forget items like toothbrush, toothpaste, and any other personal care items you may need.
  • Medications: If you have any prescription medications, be sure to pack them in a secure container.
  • Backpack or day pack: Bring a backpack to carry your essentials during the day trip to La Jolla.
  • Extra money: Have some cash or a credit card on hand for any additional expenses or souvenirs.
  • Optional items: If desired, bring your yoga mat for the yoga sessions 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

  • What should I bring for the overnight stay?
    Make sure to bring a swimwear for water activities, sunblock for sun protection, and any personal items you may need, such as toiletries and medications.
  • Where do I park?

    If you are traveling with your guardian, please park on the 5th and 6th floor of Parking Structure 1 (PS1). If you are driving yourself, you can park overnight at lot B, just be sure to pay for overnight parking. Here is the map for campus parking. 

    Overnight Parking

    Hourly and Daily virtual permits may be purchased:

    • Pay stations:  located in Lot B, C, F and N 
    • AMP Park App:  Download AMP Park app or access via CSUSM app, select Parking/Transit, then select Purchase a Day Pass.
    • Online parking Account: Log in with CSUSM credentials
    • No refunds or exchanges on daily/hourly parking permits.

    More information on parking 

  • How do I get to the location for Wilderness Orientation?
    Once you finish the normal orientation day (which begins at 8:00am - 4:45pm), you will collect your things and head down to the Clarke FIeld House with your O-Team leaders at 5:00pm to check-in and sign waivers. 
  • What should I wear for the Overnight experience?
    We'll be doing some team building activities for 1.5 hours. We plan on being active, so please be sure to have athletic wear on (stretchy, breathable fabric and close-toed shoes). 
  • Will there be showers?

    Shower usage will be available later that evening at the dorms. Your leaders will share more information the day before. 

  • Will food be provided during the trip?

    Yes, meals and snacks will be provided throughout the orientation and kayaking excursion. However, you may want to bring some additional snacks if you have specific dietary preferences or if you anticipate needing extra energy. 

  • Can I invite a family member or friend to join the overnight orientation experience and outdoor adventure?
    Unfortunately, the overnight orientation experience is exclusively for first-year students who pay for this specific excursion. Guests who are not part of the Wilderness Orientation are not able to participate in this particular event. The orientation is designed to help new students connect with their peers and establish a sense of community within their own cohort.

If you have any other questions regarding the overnight experience, please reach out to Outdoor Adventures at outdooradventures@csusm.edu.