Building Bonds that Last a Lifetime
You may have strolled across campus, passed by what looks like a random collection of logs on lower campus next to the softball field and thought, “Huh, is this some kind of modern art or an obstacle course for squirrels?” Well, it’s neither! That intriguing arrangement is actually the OUTBAC Team Building Facility -- a professional team building site designed to foster leadership, collaboration, and fun. Offering more than just logs and ropes, The OUTBAC -- aka Outdoor Beach Adventure Course -- is a dynamic space housed within the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, where teams build trust, tackle challenges, and strengthen their bonds and is also one of the most exciting partnerships the college is proud to highlight within Beach XP.
"At California State University, Long Beach, we know that students are most successful when they feel a strong sense of connection to their peers and their campus," said Ross Garner, Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies full-time lecturer and manager of The OUTBAC. "Beach XP delivers this by creating college-specific cohorts where students take classes together, meet weekly, and participate in unique experiences—like Recreation 201, which is a course offered by the Recreation and Leisure Studies Department and takes place right here at The OUTBAC."
At The OUTBAC, students tackle a series of unique challenges designed to foster teamwork and communication. The grand finale? The exhilarating up-and-over wall challenge, where students put all their learning into action to conquer a literal and metaphorical obstacle together. It’s a moment of triumph that leaves participants with a sense of accomplishment and the kind of bonds that can last a lifetime.
Students who successfully complete Recreation 201 receive more than just memories—they also earn a training certificate from the OUTBAC, officially recognizing them as an Apprentice at the facility. This certification shows they’ve met all the qualifications needed to assist in facilitating teambuilding activities, adding a valuable professional credential to their resumes. For students interested in leadership, recreation, or team dynamics, it’s a practical resource that opens doors to on-campus employment and beyond.
Through programs like this, Beach XP helps students forge meaningful peer connections, meet faculty in smaller class settings, and take advantage of opportunities like tutoring, mentorship, and campus-wide social activities. These experiences don’t just make college more fun—they give students the skills and support to thrive throughout their academic journey.
Recent updates have made the OUTBAC fully operational for public use. The facility is now overseen by Garner, a full-time manager dedicated to ensuring its success. With his leadership, the OUTBAC has implemented a streamlined reservation system, updated operations protocols, and developed new opportunities for student involvement as facilitators.
So, next time you pass by those “logs on the ground,” take a moment to imagine the possibilities. For more information about the OUTBAC and Beach XP, take look at our websites:
