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Equipment stored in a room.

Equipment Rental

Everything You Need for Your Next Outing

Equipment stored in a room.

The Outdoor Adventure program at Illinois State University offers a wide variety of high-quality outdoor equipment available for rental to help you gear up for your next adventure. Whether you're planning a camping trip, hiking excursion, paddling adventure, or backyard gathering, we’ve got you covered with items like tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, kayaks, paddleboards, climbing shoes, yard games, and more.

Our affordable rental options make it easy for students, faculty, staff, and the local community to access the gear they need to explore the outdoors or enjoy recreational activities. Equipment is well-maintained, and our staff is happy to provide guidance on selecting the right gear for your needs.

To rent equipment, simply complete the Equipment Request Form and pick up your gear at the Redbird Adventure Center, 1700 Gregory St., Normal, IL 61761, on your specified pick-up day. After your trip, return all equipment to the same location on your designated drop-off day.

Let us help you make your next adventure a success!

Equipment and Pricing

  • Tents
    Gear Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday) Non-Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday)
    2 Person Tent $12.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $20.00 - $4.00 per additional day(s)
    4 Person Tent $16.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s) $24.00 - $5.00 per additional day(s)
    6 Person Tent $20.00 - $4.00 per additional day(s) $28.00 - $6.00 per additional day(s)
    Backpack
    Gear Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday) Non-Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday)
    Backpacking Packs XS , S/M , L $14.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s) $20.00 - $4.00 per additional day(s)
    Day Packs $10.00 - $1.00 per additional day(s) $15.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s)
    Boats
    Gear Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday) Non-Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday)
    Canoe $45.00 - $10.00 per additional day(s) $50.00 - $10.00 per additional day(s)
    Kayak $40.00 - $10.00 per additional day(s) $45.00 - $10.00 per additional day(s)
    Stand Up Paddle Board $40.00 - $10.00 per additional day(s) $45.00 - $10.00 per additional day(s)
  • Sleep Systems
    Gear Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday) Non-Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday)
    Sleeping Bags (35°, 20°, 15°, 0°, -15°) $10.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $15.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s)
    Sleeping Pads Closed Cell and Self-Inflating $8.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $10.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s)
    Cooking
    Gear Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday) Non-Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday)
    Cookware Set $10.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $15.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s)
    Cooler $5.00 - $1.00 per additional day(s) $9.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s)
    2 Burner Stove $9.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $10.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s)
    Backpacking Stove $14.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s) $20.00 - $4.00 per additional day(s)
    5 Gallon Water Jug $5.00 - $1.00 per additional day(s) $9.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s)
    Miscellaneous
    Gear Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday) Non-Student Weekend Price (Friday – Monday)
    Hammock $12.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s) $15.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s)
    Slackline $14.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s) $15.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s)
    Lantern $9.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $10.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s)
    Traction Cleats $9.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $15.00 - $3.00 per additional day(s)
    Compass $4.00 - $1.00 per additional day(s) $5.00 - $1.00 per additional day(s)
    Rain Jacket S, M, L, XL, 2XL $9.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $10.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s)
    Rain Pants S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL $9.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s) $10.00 - $2.00 per additional day(s)

Equipment Rental Policy

The Adventure Program at Illinois State University provides a variety of outdoor equipment rentals for ISU students, faculty, staff, and adult residents of central Illinois. Equipment includes items for camping, paddling, and more, with rentals available on weekdays only. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance and require at least 24 hours’ notice. Same-day rentals are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, depending on availability.

Pick-Up and Return Guidelines

  • A valid ID is required at pick-up.
  • Returns must be scheduled at the time of reservation, with flexibility outside open hours based on staff availability.
  • Late returns will incur a $10/item fee plus the daily rental rate.

Rental Details

  • Equipment is rented by the day, with a flat daily rate. Rentals under 24 hours are still charged the full daily fee.
  • Equipment may be rented for up to 11 days; longer durations require approval.
  • Equipment must be returned clean and inspected for damage; cleaning fees or repair/replacement costs may apply.

Payment

  • Accepted: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay.
  • Not accepted: Debit cards or cash.

Paddling Safety

  • Paddling equipment, including canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, is available. Renters must wear Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and carry safety equipment as required.
  • Renters are responsible for loading, securing, and unloading watercraft.
  • Weather and water conditions should be assessed before and during paddling, and paddling should always match your skill level.
  • Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited by law.

For more details visit the Equipment Rental Policy Page.