The Office of Campus Recreation can make summer an exciting adventure for students and faculty at NIU.

The OCR offers a wide variety of summer programs that include canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and much more.

“We try to get new programs every year,” said Ashley Sweda, Coordinator of Campus Recreation.

A new program for 1991 is Magic Waters, which is specially designed for people who like to play in water. Participants can enjoy a wave pool, water slide, tube slide, sand volleyball, and a hot tub all in one day for $10.

The Student Association provides the funding for the OCR with student fees, making it possible to have these programs at lower prices, Sweda said.

Besides adventure trips, the OCR also rents camping and sport equipment at low prices.

Anyone who is an NIU student, faculty, or staff is eligible to go on trips or rent equipment. “The students are always a priority because their student fees pay for the programs,” said Sweda.

Sometimes if a trip isn’t full, guests who aren’t connected with the university are allowed to go along, but they pay 25 percent more than students or staff, he said.

Each trip has several instructors. There is a supportive staff that goes to help out and gain experience for future trips as well as well-trained co-trip leader and the trip leader.

“I’m here for them,” said Sweda who provides training for leaders. “We plan safe but also fun, relaxing, enjoyable trips.”

The OCR is now working on possible programs for Alumni. It also has special one-on-one instruction for physically impaired persons. “We’re always willing to accommodate people,” said Sweda.

The biggest problem the OCR has is getting students to notice and take part in the activities.

“Once students go on trips, they love it,” Sweda said.

For students who would like to try some new water sports or just spend a relaxing day at the beach, Sweda highly recommends Shabbona Lake Play Day. The OCR will provide kayaks, canoes, a sailboard, a volleyball net, frisbees, horseshoes, a soccer ball and a football. The cost of the trip is $5.

The Outing Center is looking for experienced or inexperienced people to lead trips or be part of the supportive staff. Trip leaders and co-leaders are paid and the supportive staff travels free.

For schedules or information about trips contact the Outing Center at 753-9423.