Department COVID-19 Updates:
OAC
Campus Recreation
Building Hours
We've seen significant demand to climb this winter season. Thank you for your patience as we navigate capacity and continue to ensure the safety of those in our community.
Expanded access:
- OAC Climbing Gym expanded hours:
- Beginning January 2nd, we will add a session from 12p-1:50p. Existing timeslots at 2p, 4, and 6p remain.
The RSVP system will continue:
- Sessions available: 12p-1:50p, 2p-3:50p, 4p-5:50p, 6p-7:50p. RSVP’s will be forfeited if climbers do not arrive within 20 minutes of session start time or we receive no other communication from you.
- Climbers can RSVP for up to 2 sessions in any 7 day period + no more than 1 session per day.
- Walk ups are welcomed, but session RSVP’s will be granted priority in access.
- If you are having trouble securing an RSVP through the portal below, email us at outdoorrec@unl.edu.
- OAC Climbing Gym Capacity: 20 climbers
- Classic Wall Capacity: 6 climbers
- Climbing is available for Climbers with a Pass. If you do not currently possess a pass with our gym, but pass a Top Rope or Lead Climbing/Belay Skills check we can discuss pass options for you.
- Masks will be required at all times, even while climbing. 6’ of physical distancing is expected of all climbers. Please be mindful to comply with these expectations in the gym.
- All seating areas, door handles, cubbies and metal climbing gear will be wiped down and sanitized between climbing sessions. Please be aware, due to the nature of climbing holds, we cannot sanitize holds in between use. We do not recommend you resume climbing if you or people in your social network are at a high risk for COVID.
Outdoor Adventures Equipment Rentals Are Available!
Follow the link below to reserve equipment online.
Reserve Your Equipment Online Now!Outdoor Adventures Center
Opened in May 2014, the $5.28 million Outdoor Adventures Center is the on-campus home for outdoor academic & non-credit classes, the adventure trips program, challenge course, the UNL bike shop & gear rentals, and Nebraska’s largest climbing & bouldering gym, covering 2,383 sq ft. and 30 rope lines. The layout of the building allows easy access to each activity area independently and the free movement between all areas.
Adventure Programming
The Outdoor Adventures Center is home to the Outdoor Adventures program, existing to engage individuals and groups in adventure experiences for escape, education & enjoyment.Exterior Climbing Wall
The Outdoor Adventures Center features an exterior rock wall that is open 24/7 for bouldering and has 3 rope lines for special events. The exterior wall designed by Eldorado Climbing Walls was sculpted to look like the upper third of Chimney Rock, an iconic landmark in western Nebraska that served as a milestone of progress for pioneers making their way west along the Oregon Trail.Bike Lockers
A major focus of the building is to promote bike commuting to campus. The facility has 22 bike lockers for rent. Individuals renting a bike locker or UNL community members purchasing commuter pass a have 24/7 access to the locker rooms with shower access and towel exchange service.

Classroom Space
There is an exterior patio area to the south of the facility with direct egress from the classroom. This facilitates those teaching a class to move straight into the outdoors for tent set-up, camp stove training or other various outdoor adventures' learning experiences.Main Entrance
Double sliding glass doors on the west main entrance allow individuals needing bike repairs to easily navigate the entry and simply move into the bike repair and maintenance area.Courtyard and Equipment Access
On the east side a fenced exterior courtyard and canopy accommodates canoes, kayaks and trip trailers. The fence is secured with an automatic gate and staff have secure access into the OAC storage/workroom of the facility via an overhead garage door.
Fall & Spring Hours
Monday - Friday
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
|
Saturday - Sunday
10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
|
Adjusted hours during holiday breaks and special events.
|
A completed release form is required for all Outdoor Adventures trips, classes, climbing wall and Challenge Course participants. Those 18 years of age and under must have a parent or legal guardian sign the release form.
Release Forms
Release Forms

OAC Climbing Pass Options
Climbing Passes |
UNL student/
CREC member |
General Public
|
---|---|---|
Try-It Climb (2 climbs in one day) Available Monday-Friday beginning at 12pm. Available Saturday-Sunday beginning at 10am. |
-0-
1 free each semester |
$5
|
Daily Pass* |
included in CREC membership
|
$15
includes CREC facilities access |
Monthly Pass* 3-month minimum |
included in CREC membership
|
$40
+ $50 one-time initiation fee |
Annual Pass* |
included in CREC membership
|
$430
|
Annual Secondary Pass* Spouses, collateral dependents, or dependents (child) age 16-23 years of Primary Passholder are eligible. Primary Passholders must remain current for Secondary Pass holders to retain pass privileges. |
$344
|
$344
|
*Must complete a Climbing Basics Class or pass a Skills Check prior to climbing. |
Lockers + Showers
UNL student/
CREC member monthly |
General Public
| |
---|---|---|
Bike Locker (26" x 75" x 44") + 24/7 Locker Room/Shower Access • fits a bicycle + gear |
$10/monthly
|
$20/monthly
|
Bike Locker (26" x 75" x 44") + 24/7 Locker Room/Shower Access • fits a bicycle + gear |
$80/annually
|
$160/annually
|
Medium Locker + 24/7 Locker Room/Shower Access |
$3/monthly
|
$8/monthly
|
Day-Use Locker |
-0-
|
-0-
Must pay daily Guest Fee of $15 |
To stay up-to-date on everything at the Outdoor Adventure Center
join our mailing listMission Statement:
Campus Recreation is committed to enriching the educational experience by promoting lifelong healthy living. We are dedicated to celebrating differences, providing active and innovative recreational opportunities, cultivating a community of supportive relationships, and developing global leaders.
