Welcome to the Outdoor Recreation Adventure Center (ORAC) at Western Kentucky University. ORAC offers a variety of outdoor programs for students and faculty/staff at WKU for a minimal cost. These include the following programs: Adventure Trips, Outdoor Equipment Rental, Skill Clinics, Outdoor Resource Library, Bike Shop, Disc Golf Course, and the Challenge Course. We are located in the Preston Health and Activities Center just across from the first basketball court. You must have a valid WKU student ID to gain access to the Preston Center. Adventure trip sign-ups are on a first-come, first serve basis. All you need to do to sign up for a trip or to obtain more information about a trip is to stop by the ORAC during open hours and ask. Program sign-ups will begin the first day of the semester and will remain open until they are full.
Upcoming Events
| Date | Event | Cost (Univ/Guest) |
Info Meeting |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/05 | Cave the Unknown | $5 / $10 | 12/02 @ 5:00 pm |
| 01/06 - 01/13 | Wilderness First Responder | $500 / $500 | 01/06 @ TBA |
If you have any questions about ORAC drop us an e-mail or call and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
E-mail: orac@wku.edu
Phone: (270)745-6545
Cycling the Natchez Trace Parkway
11/21 - 11/30
University: $100
Guest: $123
Spend thanksgiving break cycling in Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee along the historic Natchez Trace trail. If you enjoy cycling or want to learn the basics of long distance riding this trip is for you. Start training now for this 444 mile cycle. For specific information contact Caleb at 270.745.6545.
Info Meeting: 11/05 @ 6:00 pm
Kayak Roll Clinic
11/06
University: $10
Guest: $15
Learn the basics of kayaking and the kayak roll in the pool. This instructional clinic will provide hands on experience with personal attention. Geared to make sure you feel comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure. Kayaks and instructors included. Swimming skills are a prerequisite.
Info Meeting: 11/06 @ 6:00 pm
Everglades National Park Paddling
01/04 - 01/11
University: $275
Guest: $325
Escape the chilly days of winter in Kentucky with ORAC as we head down to southern Florida for a week of paddling in Everglades National Park. No experience paddling is required but swimming is a prerequisite. Sign up as soon as possible, spots are limited.
Info Meeting: 12/02 @ 5:00 pm
Wilderness First Responder
01/07 - 01/14
University: $500
Guest: $500
ORAC is hosting an eight day, 80 hour, Wilderness First Responder course through SOLO, Stonehearth Open Learning Opportunities. This course takes a comprehensive in-depth look at the standards of wilderness medicine. Participants can expect hands-on learning with field experience, spanning topics from simple first aid to anaphylactic shock. If all assessments and exams are passed, participants will receive a three year wilderness first responder certification. For additional information about the course and optional university credit, contact Caleb Wells at 270.745.6545 or email us at orac@wku.edu.
Info Meeting: 01/07 @ TBA
Backcountry Cooking
09/25
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
Learn how to make gourmet meals that will surely please a hungry crowd. This clinic is hands-on, teaching you the basics of planning, packing, preparing, and eating! Come hungry as there will be plenty of food.
Info Meeting: 09/25 @ 5:00 pm
AORE Conference
12/08
University: TBD
Guest: TBD
The Association for Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) conference is designed to bring professionals and students together for networking and the sharing of new ideas in the outdoor recreation field. The conference offers in-class lectures and hands on activities to embrace your knowledge of the outdoor recreation. Call Luke at 745-6542 for more information.
Info Meeting: 12/08 @ TBA
WIlderness Education Association
02/05 - 02/07
University: $20
Guest: $20
ORAC will be heading up to Bloomington Indiana for the 2009 Wilderness Education Association Conference. This conference is designed for both professional and aspiring Wilderness Educators to search for jobs, network within the industry, and receive current information and training. If you would like to carpool up to the conference with ORAC contact Caleb Wells at 270.745.6060. Membership, registration, and lodging are separate. For more information about the WEA or conference workshops stop by the ORAC office
Info Meeting: 02/03 @ 5:00 pm
Kayak Roll Clinic
02/11
University: $10
Guest: $15
Learn the basics of kayaking and the kayak roll in the pool. This instructional clinic will provide hands on experience with personal attention. Geared to make sure you feel comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure. Kayaks and instructors included. Swimming skills are a prerequisite.
Info Meeting: 02/11 @ 6:00 pm
Caving in Southern Kentucky
02/21
University: $5
Guest: $10
Enter Night, Exit Light. ORAC will be heading underground in southern Kentucky for an afternoon of caving. We will provide transportation and all caving gear; you come prepared for crawling and getting’ dirty!
Info Meeting: 02/17 @ 5:00 pm
Cooking Clinic
02/26
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
Food is your body’s fuel in the back country. Therefore it is one of the most important resources and should not be eaten lightly. Learn how to make gourmet meals that will surely please a hungry crowd. This clinic is hands on teaching you the basics of planning, packing, preparing, and eating! Come hungry as there will be plenty of food.
Info Meeting: 02/26 @ 5:00 pm
Canoeing the Green River
02/27 - 03/01
University: $25
Guest: $30
Ever wanted to learn how to keep that canoe going straight? If so, this is the weekend trip for you. Join us as we canoe 25 miles with a night out camping on the Green River in Mammoth Cave National Park . If you have never held a paddle or are a seasoned paddling veteran, you are sure to learn something new on this two day trip. All gear, permits, and transportation provided in the cost of this trip.
Info Meeting: 02/24 @ 5:00 pm
Slacklining
03/04
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
Test you balance and coordination with ORAC as we go over the basics of slack lining. No experience is required for this clinic. We will be teaching the set up as well as giving helpful hints and demonstrations of this unique skill. Stop by to see if you can master the skill of slack lining.
Info Meeting: 03/04 @ 4:00 pm
Ouachita National Scenic Trail
03/06 - 03/15
University: $150
Guest: $175
Take a trip into outlaw country with ORAC this Spring Break as we visit the Ouachita Mountains, one of Backpacker magazines Life List Hikes. These rugged mountains spanning from Oklahoma to Arkansas guarantee both solitude and splendor. We will explore 60 miles of the ONRT over spring break as we make our way from Talimena State Park in Oklahoma over Rich Mountain (the highest point on the ONRT) to Queen Wilhelmina State Park in Arkansas. Price includes transportation, gear, and permits.
Info Meeting: 02/24 @ 6:00 pm
Kayak Roll Clinic
03/17
University: $10
Guest: $15
Learn the basics of kayaking and the kayak roll in the pool. This instructional clinic will provide hands on experience with personal attention. Geared to make sure you feel comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure. Kayaks and instructors included. Swimming skills are a prerequisite.
Info Meeting: 03/17 @ 6:00 pm
Disc Golf Clinic
03/18 - 03/19
University: $25
Guest: $30
ORAC will be hosting a disc golf clinic this March. Wednesday we will visit the 6 hole course on WKU’s campus learning the different throws and strategies of the game. On Thursday afternoon we will visit one of Bowling Green’s 18 hole courses for an afternoon of trying out new skills. Price includes three discs (Innova’s Destroyer, Shark, and Aviar) instruction, and transportation. Sign up soon spots are limited.
Info Meeting: 03/18 @ 4:00 pm
Backpacking Cumberland Gap
03/27 - 03/29
University: $30
Guest: $40
Spend the weekend backpacking on the Wilderness Road through Cumberland Gap national historic park. We will explore old growth forests as well as we follow the footsteps of nearly 300,000 pioneers from the late 1700’s. This southern Appalachian haven boasts beautiful waterfalls, scenic vistas, and abundant wildlife. Price includes transportation, gear, and permits.
Info Meeting: 03/24 @ 5:00 pm
NIRSA Conference
04/01 - 04/04
University: TBD
Guest: TBD
The National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) annual conference is designed to bring professionals and students together for networking and sharing. This conference offers in-class lecture sessions and round table discussions to enhance your knowledge of all aspects of campus recreation. For specific information contact Caleb at 270.745.6060.
Info Meeting: 00/00 @ TBA
Bouldering Clinic
04/07
University: $5
Guest: $10
Join ORAC as we head out to Clifty Hollow for an evening of bouldering instruction and practice. Crash Pads, helmets, and transportation are included in the cost. Sign up soon as spots are limited.
Info Meeting: 04/07 @ 4:00 pm
Tree ID clinic
04/09
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
The first step in Tree ID is to know that there are always distinguishing characteristcs that seperate one tree species from another. By examining different tree parts you will be able to confidently identify the different trees around WKU's campus. This will require some careful detective work on your part, but it should be fun and easy.
Info Meeting: 04/09 @ 5:00 pm
Orienteering
04/14
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
Need a little direction in life? Our staff can show you the way. This workshop is designed to teach the proper use of a map and compass in a wilderness setting. You will have the opportunity to shoot a bearing, triangulate your position, and create a time control plan. So if you are lost or just want to brush up before your next solo trip, this workshop is for you.
Info Meeting: 04/14 @ 5:00 pm
Kayak Roll Clinic
04/16
University: $10
Guest: $15
Learn the basics of kayaking and the kayak roll in the pool. This instructional clinic will provide hands on experience with personal attention. Geared to make sure you feel comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure. Kayaks and instructors included. Swimming skills are a prerequisite.
Info Meeting: 04/16 @ 6:00 pm
American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification
04/17 - 04/19
University: $175
Guest: $200
This three day American Red Cross (ARC) lifeguarding class will begin Friday at 4pm and continue through Sunday early evening. This course will go over all ARC guidelines and protocols. After successful completion of this class, participants will be certified ARC lifeguards. Participants must pre-register at the ORAC.
Info Meeting: 04/17 @ 4:00 pm
Multitool Bike Clinic
04/23
University: $20
Guest: $30
The WKU Bike Shop will be putting on an informal clinic teaching participants how to repair any problems that they may encounter while out on a bike ride. Price includes all instruction and a Multi Tool from Pedros cycling. Stop by and learn how to make it home the next time you encounter a problem cycling. This clinic is limited to 10 participants so sign up today!
Info Meeting: 04/23 @ 5:00 pm
Bike and Hike Mammoth Cave
05/01 - 05/03
University: $25
Guest: $35
Bring your biking and hiking shoes! We are going to Mammoth Cave National Park. During this spring season we are clipping our foot pedals in and road biking to Mammoth Cave. After our morning bike we will relax and tour the park, explore a couple of hiking trails and enjoy the night camping and being in nature. Participants must provide their own bike.
Info Meeting: 04/28 @ 5:00 pm
Bouldering Clinic
05/07
University: $5
Guest: $10
Join ORAC as we head out to Clifty Hollow for an evening of bouldering instruction and practice. Crash Pads, helmets, and transportation are included in the cost. Sign up soon as spots are limited.
Info Meeting: 05/07 @ 4:00 pm
Intro to SCUBA
05/09
University: $45
Guest: $55
WKU ORAC is heading beneath the surface of the water for this adventure. We are heading to Pennyroyal Scuba in Hopkinsville to try our hand at SCUBA. All participants are welcome on this trip regardless if you are scuba certified or not. This is a great time to see if you really think you want to get into scuba or to just try something new. No previous experience needed. All gear included in the cost.
Info Meeting: 05/05 @ 5:00 pm
Study Abroad in Costa Rica
05/18 - 05/29
University: $2100
Guest: $2100
Join WKU ORAC as we head to the great country of Costa Rica for 12 days of exploring. The jewel of Central America, there truly is no country like Costa Rica due to the diversity it has to offer. The Rio Toro, one of the great whitewater rafting rivers of Costa Rica, will be one of the activities you will not want to miss. We will also stop and view Arenal Volcano to see it spewing molten lava from its peak. As a new offering to ORAC trips, we will be completing a service learning project for a local region to help give back to this remarkable country. Time spent on the coast, engaging different cultural activities, and viewing exotic wildlife are just a few of the things you will experience during this action packed adventure. The trip is offered as a three credit hour May term course in conjunction with the Department of Physical Education and Recreation. Study aboard tuition rates apply ($50 per credit hour) as well as numerous scholarship opportunities are available to help subsidize the cost of this amazing adventure. Interested individuals should contact Luke Bartlett at 745.6542 for more information or visit the website at www.wku.edu/costarica.
Info Meeting: 04/28 @ TBA
Cycling across IOWA
07/18 - 07/25
University: $300
Guest: $325
WKU ORAC is heading to the Hawkeye State for the Registers Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI), which is the largest and oldest cross state bike ride. The bike ride starts in western Iowa on Sunday and rides the next seven days to the eastern edge of Iowa. A typical day on RAGBRAI consists of 60-70 miles through small farm towns. At night, we will be camping in “tent city.” The cost of this trip includes transportation, entries into a drawing for free bike, camping accommodations, sag wagon services, equipment for camping, a custom ORAC biking jersey, and maps. The cost of the trip does not cover bike rental (if needed) and food. If you have ever wanted to do something different and unique, this is your summer dream come true. Contact Luke Bartlett at 745-6542 for more information on this trip.
Info Meeting: 07/01 @ 4:00 pm
Canoeing the Boundary Waters
08/01 - 08/08
University: $180
Guest: $210
Get in the van as we get out of town and experience tranquil beauty in the pristine Northern Minnesota wilderness right before classes start. We will spend 4 nights and 5 days camping, canoeing, and portaging BWCAW. All camping, canoeing, and transportation fees are included in the price of this trip; however food is not included.
Info Meeting: 07/15 @ 4:00 pm
Sailing
09/05 - 09/06
University: $25
Guest: $30
ORAC will head to the Barren River reservoir for a two day clinic on sailing. If you have never sailed before, this a great opportunity to learn the basics with our friends from the Port Oliver Yacht Club. On Sunday we will be racing against each other in the ORAC Regatta.
Info Meeting: 09/02 @ 6:00 pm
How to Set Up a Slackline
09/02
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
Test your balance and coordination with ORAC as we go over the basics of slack lining. No experience is required for this clinic. We will be teaching the set up as well as giving helpful hints and demonstrations of this unique skill. Stop by to see if you can master the skill of slack lining.
Info Meeting: 09/02 @ 4:00 pm
Bike Clinic
09/08
University: $20
Guest: $30
The WKU Bike Shop will be putting on an informal clinic teaching participants how to repair any problems that they may encounter while out on a bike ride. Price includes all instruction and a Multi Tool from Pedros cycling. Stop by and learn how to make it home the next time you encounter a problem cycling. This clinic is limited to 10 participants so sign up today!
Info Meeting: 09/08 @ 5:00 pm
Pickett State Prak
09/18 - 09/20
University: $20
Guest: $30
Join ORAC in a remote section of the upper Cumberland Mountains,the 11,752-acre Pickett State Park and Forest possesses a combination of scenic, botanical and geological wonders found nowhere else in Tennessee. Of particular interest are the uncommon rock formations, natural bridges, numerous caves and the remains of ancient Indian occupation. Some say Pickett is second only to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in botanical diversity.
Info Meeting: 09/16 @ 5:00 pm
Kayak Roll
09/22
University: $10
Guest: $15
Learn the basics of kayaking and the kayak roll in the pool. This instructional clinic will provide hands on experience with personal attention. Geared to make sure you feel comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure. Kayaks and instructors included. Swimming skills are a prerequisite.
Info Meeting: 09/22 @ 6:00 pm
Whitewater Rafting
09/27
University: $50
Guest: $50
The Ocoee River is a whitewater classic in the south-east. This is an opportunity to experience the thrills of Class III and IV whitewater. Challenge the well known rapids of Tablesaw, Diamond Splitter, Double Trouble and others! We will drive down Sunday morning, raft in the afternoon, and then return that evening. This trip is for University students only, space is limited so sign up quick!
Info Meeting: 09/23 @ 5:00 pm
Backcountry Cooking
10/01
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
Food is your body’s fuel in the back country. Therefore it is one of the most important resources and should not be eaten lightly. Learn how to make gourmet meals that will surely please a hungry crowd. This clinic is hands on teaching you the basics of planning, packing, preparing, and eating! Come hungry as there will be plenty of food.
Info Meeting: 10/01 @ 5:00 pm
Backpacking
10/07 - 10/11
University: $60
Guest: $70
Join us for Fall Break on the Appalachian Trail as we continue to section hike the trail. Enjoy a unique backcountry experience on the trail and meet new friends as you hike up and down breath-taking mountain views in North Carolina. Learn how to set up tents, cook meals, and make fires to enjoy the nights. Don’t forget the marshmallows!
Info Meeting: 09/30 @ 5:00 pm
Smores
10/13
University: FREE!
Guest: FREE!
Come learn how to make the perfect smores with the help of the ORAC crew. During this hands on clinic, you will learn how to make 10 different smores! You must preregister for this free clinic by going to ORAC on the first floor of the Preston Center.
Info Meeting: 10/13 @ 5:00 pm
Kayak Roll
10/21
University: $10
Guest: $15
Learn the basics of kayaking and the kayak roll in the pool. This instructional clinic will provide hands on experience with personal attention. Geared to make sure you feel comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure. Kayaks and instructors included. Swimming skills are a prerequisite.
Info Meeting: 10/21 @ 6:00 pm
Paddling
10/30 - 11/01
University: $25
Guest: $30
Ever wanted to learn how to keep that canoe going straight? If so, this is the weekend trip for you. Join us as we canoe 25 miles with a night out camping on the Green River in Mammoth Cave National Park . If you have never held a paddle or are a seasoned paddling veteran, you are sure to learn something new on this two day trip. All gear, permits, and transportation provided in the cost of this trip.
Info Meeting: 10/28 @ 5:00 pm
AORE
11/04 - 11/08
University: TBD
Guest: TBD
The Association for Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) conference is designed to bring professionals and students together for networking and the sharing of new ideas in the outdoor recreation field. The conference offers in-class lectures and hands on activities to embrace your knowledge of the outdoor recreation. Call Luke Bartlett at 745-6542 for more information
Info Meeting: 09/23 @ TBA
Kayak Roll
11/11
University: $10
Guest: $15
Learn the basics of kayaking and the kayak roll in the pool. This instructional clinic will provide hands on experience with personal attention. Geared to make sure you feel comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure. Kayaks and instructors included. Swimming skills are a prerequisite.
Info Meeting: 11/11 @ 6:00 pm
Paddling Okefenokee
11/20 - 11/29
University: $225
Guest: $250
Spend three nights and four days paddling through Georgia’s famous Okefenokee Swamp. Experience the thrill of paddling with alligators, sleeping with bears and navigating through Cyprus forests. This is a canoe trip of a lifetime and it takes place this winter break. Join WKU’s own crodile hunters Luke and Amanda as WKU explores the wildlife treasure. No experience necessary.
Info Meeting: 11/12 @ 6:00 pm
Caving
12/05
University: $5
Guest: $10
Enter Night, Exit Light. ORAC will be heading underground in southern Kentucky for an afternoon of caving. We will provide transportation and all caving gear; you come prepared for crawling and gettin’ dirty!
Info Meeting: 12/02 @ 5:00 pm
WFR
01/06 - 01/13
University: $500
Guest: $500
ORAC is hosting an eight day, 80 hour, Wilderness First Responder course through SOLO, Stonehearth Open Learning Opportunities. This course takes a comprehensive in-depth look at the standards of wilderness medicine. Participants can expect hands-on learning with field experience, spanning topics from simple first aid to anaphylactic shock. If all assessments and exams are passed, participants will receive a three year wilderness first responder certification. For additional information about the course and optional university credit, contact Amanda Even at 270 745 6060 for more details.
