Indiana University Outdoor Adventures (IUOA) — photo 1 of 1

Indiana University Outdoor Adventures (IUOA)

Rating

4.8(26)

Family of 4

USD 20–80 depending on activities and rentals

Duration

1–3 hours

Best Ages

13–18 (teens and young adults)

About

Indiana University Outdoor Adventures, known as IUOA, is the outdoor recreation hub of Indiana University's Bloomington campus — a resource for students, faculty, and community members who want to explore Indiana's outdoor landscapes through organized trips and quality gear rentals. Located in Eigenmann Hall, IUOA is a full-service outdoor recreation center with an extensive inventory of kayaks, canoes, bikes, climbing equipment, camping gear, and more.

For families visiting IU Bloomington or exploring the area, IUOA offers an engaging stop for teens and older kids who have an interest in outdoor adventures. The rental shop allows visitors to gear up for local trails and waterways, while the trip calendar lists guided outdoor experiences ranging from day hikes to multi-day paddling adventures. The organization's programming gives teens exposure to a range of outdoor activities in a structured, safety-conscious format.

IU's Bloomington campus is itself a destination — one of the most beautiful college campuses in the Midwest, with limestone buildings, forested trails, and Sample Gates creating a remarkable atmosphere. A visit to IUOA pairs naturally with a campus walk, a meal on Kirkwood Avenue, and exploration of the surrounding Hoosier National Forest. Community members are welcome at IUOA at non-member pricing.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

University restroom facilities on campus

Kid Meals

Campus dining options nearby on IU Bloomington campus

Setting

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Academic year when full programming and rental inventory is available

Wait Times

Minimal wait for gear rentals

Nearby Food

IU campus has multiple dining halls and student union restaurants; downtown Bloomington's Kirkwood Avenue is excellent for family dining

Why Kids Love It

Teens and older kids love exploring outdoor gear rentals and trip planning resources at this well-equipped university outdoor center on IU's beautiful Bloomington campus.

Pro Tips from Parents

  • Combine with a broader IU campus tour — the Bloomington campus is stunning
  • Check the IUOA trip calendar for organized outdoor adventures like rafting or hiking excursions
  • Gear rental is affordable and a great way to test equipment before buying

What to Bring

  • Student or community ID for rental purposes
  • A sense of adventure — the trip calendar has something for every interest

Cost Info

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

USD 20–80 depending on activities and rentals

Tips to Save

  • IU students and affiliates get discounted rates; community members can also access many services at non-member pricing

Hours & Contact

Hours

Friday
2:00 – 8:00 PM
Monday
2:00 – 6:00 PM
Sunday
2:00 – 6:00 PM
Tuesday
Closed
Saturday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Wednesday
2:00 – 6:00 PM

Contact

Eigenmann Hall, 1900 E 10th St #020, Bloomington, IN 47406, USA

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Frequently Asked Questions

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