Outdoor Connection Rentals & Service Center

Yes we do. Current students and REC members receive a discount.

We rent everything you would need for your outdoor adventures big or small.  Bikes, Tents, Camping gear, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, sleds, cross-country skis, snowshoes, and more.

No, the OC does not rent out climbing gear. However, we encourage you to check out the several climbing trips that run throughout the year.

Only cross-country skis! While we do rent cross country skis, we do not rent snowboards or downhill skis. We do, however, often offer trips to Mt. Lacrosse ski and snowboard hill during the winter months. 

Yes, you can return equipment to the Info Counter during Recreational Eagle Center (REC) hours . Equipment return outside REC hours is not allowed. 

All gear must be checked out during Outdoor Connection hours.

Yes, in most cases, we will be able help you load canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, etc. onto your vehicle, however you will need to assist us. Please come prepared to help us lift these heavy items weighing up to 70 lbs. In addition, we encourage you to bring an extra person to help with loading and unloading.  

Remember, we can assist you at the time of rental, but you will need to be able to secure the boats to your vehicle on your own when we are not present. 

While we can assist you, our rental conditions require the renter to agree to release the UWL Outdoor Connection, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, the State of Wisconsin, and its employees for any liability from the loading, unloading, and use of equipment listed herein. 

Renter assumes total sole responsibility for the safe use and proper care/handling of the equipment and agree to pay the cost of repairs whether caused by accident, neglect, or misuse. Failure to pay the damages will result in legal action in a court of law and/or holding of official records.

Items can be rented for as long as you need

Give us a call 608-785-8860 or email us at: outdoorcnt@uwlax.edu. 
A 50% deposit is required to reserve equipment from Outdoor Connection.

Please give us 24 hours' notice.  Last-minute cancellations prevent other folks from renting equipment. Check out the full Refund Policy:

• Eligibility for Refunds: 
  • We offer refunds if the gear you rented breaks or becomes unusable due to circumstances beyond your control. This includes but is not limited to natural disasters, equipment malfunctions, or manufacturing defects. 
  • Rental reservation deposit refunds
    • Cancellations prior to five days are eligible for a full refund (to their original payment method); OR a full credit for a for a future Outdoor Connection purchase (Rec Bucks). 
    • Cancellations less than five days, the Outdoor Connection retains the full amount of the reservation
  • Reporting the Issue: 
    • If you encounter any problems with the rented gear during your rental period, please contact us immediately. It is essential to report the issue promptly so that we can assess the situation and provide appropriate assistance. 
  • Return of the Gear: 
    • You must return the damaged or unusable gear to our rental shop as soon as possible. We will evaluate the item to determine the cause of damage and confirm its eligibility for a refund. 
  • Refund Options: 
    • If the gear is deemed unusable due to factors beyond your control, we offer the following refund options: 
    • Full Refund: You will receive a full refund of the rental fee. 
    • Gear Replacement: If the same gear is available, we can offer a replacement instead of a refund.  
  • Refund Process: 
    • To initiate the refund process, please provide us with the following information: 
    • Details of the incident that caused the damage or rendered the gear unusable. 
    • Any supporting evidence, such as photographs, if available. 
  • Refund Timeframe: 
    • We will process your refund request within 7 business days upon receiving the necessary information and verifying the eligibility for a refund. Please note that it may take additional time for the refunded amount to reflect in your account, depending on your payment method. 
  • Non-Refundable Situations: 
    • Please be aware that our refund policy does not cover situations where the gear is damaged due to negligence, misuse, intentional harm, or normal wear and tear. In such cases, you may be responsible for repair or replacement costs. 

Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Apple Pay, American Express, student bill. 

Sorry, no we don't offer this service, but we have roof top and bike carriers.

Yes, and we can work with you to make sure your needs are met. Give us a call 608-785-8860 or email us at: outdoorcnt@uwlax.edu

Yes, in most cases, we can teach you how to operate the gear you are renting properly.

Customers are responsible for the cost of repairs or replacement. Please review our full terms & conditions. 

Yes, you can use our equipment near & far! 

Kayak, canoe, bike, ski, snowshoe, etc. 

That depends on what you want to do! Most staff at Outdoor Connection have general local knowledge of outdoor hot spots!  We are always happy to help you find a area and make a plan for what ever outdoor activity you want to do. Come stop by, email us, or give us a call with any questions you have.