Den Camps

Welcome to Den Camps!

Den Camp Promo: $30 OFF Den Camp

Use code: DenCamp30

Promo Code Terms & Conditions:

​​​​​​Promo code is valid for $30 off Den Camp program only. Promo code must be redeemed between September 25 - September 30, 2023 11:59pm (PST). Promo cannot be combined with any other promotions and is only valid for incoming freshman and transfer students enrolling in Den Camp for fall 2023. Promo code must be added and applied to cart at the time of checkout to redeem; the total will update in the cart prior to proceeding to payment. Refunds will not be issued for failure to enter promo code. Unused promo code has no monetary value and is non-transferrable. Refunds will not be issued for purchases made prior to September 25.

Connect with your fellow Bruins! Learn more below.

What is Den Camp?

Den Camp is a half-day of adventure, community-building, and FUN on the UCLA campus Challenge Course. You’ll join a “den” of fellow new Bruins and, through a series of ice-breakers, group games, and team challenges you will have the opportunity to get to know one another, try something exciting, and maybe even leave with a new friend or twelve. Our staff of enthusiastic facilitators (many of them current students or recent graduates), will lead your den through activities that incorporate low-ropes structures (i.e. balancing beams, wooden platforms, suspended cables), and/or props (i.e. traffic cones, balls, or even a rubber chicken). Teamwork, communication strategies, and creative problem-solving will all be put to work throughout these low ropes initiatives. After building trust in the team through these ground-based activities, you will next have the opportunity to climb our two signature team-belayed climbs: The Leap of Faith and the High V. Your facilitator will teach the group how to hold the ropes, belaying from the ground for your teammates as they attempt these climbing challenges. Not sure if you want to climb? That’s cool – it’s optional and there are lots of ways you can still participate with your group while staying on the ground. We’ll wrap things up with a reflective debrief at the end of the program, celebrating the group and honoring this new shared experience. While many activities have a physical component to them, physical strength and fitness are not a basis for achieving success in this program.

Location

The Challenge Course is located inside Sunset Canyon Recreation Center (SCRC) at 111 Easton Drive, Los Angeles, 90095. Meet us outside the main entrance. We’ll all gather and walk in together. If you arrive late, enter via the main entrance and tell the staff person at the entry kiosk that you are here for Den Camp.

Parking

Parking Lot RC is the closest option but can have limited spots available. You can also park in Parking Lot 11 or Parking Lot SV, which are a short walk away. Find the automated kiosk in the parking lot and purchase a day pass. Map of UCLA Campus. Campus parking info.

What to bring and wear

• Refillable water bottle
• Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Athletic shoes that are close-toed, close-heeled, and have a sturdy sole
• Personal snacks (i.e. granola bar, apple)
• Clothing:
  1. Something you can easily move in and are okay with possibly getting dirty
  2. Pants are recommended instead of shorts, even in warm weather, as this provides better skin protection from things like sun burn, scrapes, bug bites, etc.
  3. Layers to adapt to cooler temperatures, wind, or precipitation

Understand

Participation is voluntary. Staff will present group games, activities, and initiatives. You choose if and how you want to participate. In most, if not all, activities there are options for adaptations and differing degrees of participation. The choice is yours.

Challenge courses and related activities are inherently risky. The staff are trained in and prioritize risk management. However, you are in charge of your own safety. Challenge course activities, whether on/near the ground or involving climbing, are inherently risky. It is possible to get hurt. Risks include mild injuries (i.e. splinters, scrapes, bruises), moderate injuries (broken bones), severe/life-altering injuries (paralysis, blindness), and even death. Activities can evoke strong emotional and physiological responses. You must follow all staff instructions, choose the level of participation that you are comfortable with, and plan an active role in managing your personal safety.

Refunds

Refund requests received by Noon (Pacific Time) 2 business days prior to the event receive a 90% refund. Submit your refund request here.

Policies

• Weather: University shall evaluate weather forecast no earlier than 24 hours in advance of program to decide if the forecasted weather meets or exceeds the cancellation/transfer requirements described here. Den Camp will not be cancelled nor rescheduled in the event of light or intermittent rain, cold weather, or hot weather. In the event of heavy or constant rain the program will be cancelled and you are eligible for a 100% refund. Climbing activities may be limited in the event of strong winds or lightning. Activities will be altered to better mitigate lightning and wind risk, including cancelling climbing. Refund will not be granted as a result of change in activities.
• Risk management: Our staff are trained in and prioritize safety. However, risk management is everyone’s job (both staff and participants). Challenge course activities, whether on/near the ground or involving climbing, are inherently risky. It is possible to get hurt. Risks include mild injuries (i.e. splinters, scrapes, bruises), moderate injuries (broken bones), severe/life-altering injuries (paralysis, blindness), and even death. Activities can evoke strong emotional and physiological responses. Participants must follow instructions, choose their level of participation, and take part in managing risk.
• Participation: Individual choice and empowerment are essential elements of our programs. Our staff will present the group with activities that are designed to be both physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging. Participants choose if and to what extent they wish to engage in any activity. Additionally, there are opportunities for participants to change their minds. All persons (regardless of participation level) must submit a signed waiver during the registration process. Minors must have a parent/guardian sign their waiver.

FAQ

I plan to sign up for the same session as some friends. Can we be in the same den?

Dens will be randomized and we cannot accommodate special requests for assignments. A big part of Den Camp is meeting and mingling with new fellow Bruins.

Can I arrive late or leave early?

We strongly recommend that you plan to arrive early/on time, and that you stay for the duration of the event. The activities, energy, and relationships build on one another throughout the program. So when you arrive late, you'll be joining a Den that has already started to forge their bonds. And if you leave early, you might miss out on some exciting climbing opportunities that the group has been building towards. However, the choice is yours.

Is there space for me to leave luggage or other belongings?

If you have luggage or other belongings you may bring them directly onto the Challenge Course grounds. Most people leave their personal items near our picnic tables, or on the ground along the inside perimeter of our facility. We do not have designated, secured space for you to store belongings. You are responsible for the security of your own belongings.

Questions? Contact Challenge@recreation.ucla.edu.