Rec Sports Highlight

Kayaks, tents, backpacks, oh my! Deep in the heart of Texas A&M Rec Sports lies Outdoor Adventures (OA), a program area dedicated to providing an avenue for discovery and outdoor experiences for Aggies. 

This summer, two groups of 12 incoming students will embark on a journey that will change their life. The first will traverse through the wilderness on an eight-day backpacking journey in Gila National Forest, located in New Mexico. The second group will journey to Arkansas to brave the currents of Buffalo River on a six-day paddling excursion. 

Each group of students, led by two trip leaders, will explore not only the great outdoors but also what it means to be an Aggie. Venture Camp, an extended orientation camp, serves as an opportunity for incoming freshmen and transfer students to connect and learn the traditions and values of Texas A&M, all while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. 

Current upperclassman and OA student employee, Kyle Spitz ‘24, is this year’s trip leader; he is responsible for the planning and execution of Venture Camp. Spitz has worked in OA for a year and a half as a trip leader and supervisor and is excited for this summer’s expeditions. Despite having not experienced Venture Camp as a participant himself, he is passionate about the program and the opportunities it provides for students. 

“Had I known about Venture Camp and done it, I think it would’ve been probably the greatest experience I would have had at A&M. You come in with 12 other people who you know on a very intimate level because you have to, and having that friendship right off the bat as you start as a freshmen would’ve been invaluable to me.”

Feeling nervous to sign up? Follow Spitz’s advice: “Take the leap”. Take this as your sign to challenge yourself to try something new. While it may seem intimidating to go on an out-of-state trip with people you have just met, the lasting, positive impacts of the experience prove it is well worth the risk. 

“You’re going to start the trip with people who are complete strangers and when you come back it’s going to feel like family… you’ll get a really tight-knit community on an outdoor trip like Venture Camp”.

All students are equipped with the necessary gear for their comfort and safety during the session, and our knowledgeable trip leaders are on hand to guide and support you throughout the experience. The only requirement of students is an eager attitude and excitement. Students unsure which trip they should register for can review the eligibility criteria for each, which specifies the physical requirements and any recommendations OA has. Spitz adds, “Both trips are great. Both trips are going to be challenging in their own way, but they’ll also be valuable in their own way.” 

“I would just hope that the freshmen leave Venture Camp with a super strong sense of community and an appreciation and love for the outdoors.”

So what’s stopping you from registering for an experience of a lifetime? Venture Camp registration is open and calling your name. Visit tx.ag/venturecamps to claim your spot–– have any questions? Fill out this form and we will be happy to get back to you!