BuckWild
Grab a paddle. Pitch a tent. Hike across boulders. Gear up for an outdoor adventure with BuckWild, a dynamic Pre-Orientation program that takes you into the beautiful Central Pennsylvania wilderness for five days of hands-on activities in the woods, on the river and beyond.
Whichever excursion you choose, you'll connect with fellow first-years, meet upperclassmen mentors, learn about campus culture, enhance your leadership skills and broaden your perspectives as you build relationships in small-group settings. BuckWild is a great foundation of support for the rest of your time at Bucknell, and all levels of outdoor experience are welcome.
What You'll Do
The Pennsylvania Wilds region brims with outdoor activities, including hiking, backpacking, stand up paddle boarding, rock climbing, camping and more. You'll choose from several trip options, all within easy distance of campus. Previous trips have included rafting on the Lehigh River, backpacking and camping in the mountains, and rock-climbing amongst boulders.
The best part? We provide everything you need, including equipment and instruction from experienced staff and upper class student leaders. Hone your outdoor skills or try something new as you get to know a different side of Bucknell.
2026 Pre-Orientation Dates to Know
- Wednesday, Aug. 12:
- GC3 Begins
- Friday, Aug. 14:
- 7 – 11 a.m. Move-in for Pre-O participants and tabling fair
- 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Pre-O participants and their parents and families are invited to join us for lunch in Bostwick
- 12:30 p.m. Program meetings (students, parents and families)
- 1:45 – 3:30 p.m. Parent & Family Reception & University Welcome (Please contact your Pre-O Program leader with questions about program meeting locations and other program details.)
- 2 p.m. Programs begin for students
- Tuesday, Aug. 18:
- Last day of Pre-O programs
- Wednesday, Aug. 19:
- New Student Orientation begins for all first-year Bucknell students
Note: Dates and times are tentative and subject to change.
Pre-Orientation Move-In Day Schedule
| Friday, Aug. 14 | |
| 7–11 a.m. | Arrival and Check-in Outside Sojka Pavillion Students will receive their room key and BUID and check in with their Pre-O program leaders. After check-in, head to your residence hall to unpack your belongings and settle in. |
| 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Lunch Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center All Pre-Orientation participants, their families and friends are invited to lunch as guests of the University (no charge). Pick up your lunch tickets at Pre-O check-in. |
| 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Resource Fair Ground Floor, Elaine Langone Center Representatives from a variety of campus offices will be present to answer your questions. Meet staff from Bertrand Library, Bucknell Nutrition, Bucknell Student Health, Campus Activities & Programs, Dining, Equity & Inclusive Excellence Offices, Global & Off-Campus Education, Public Safety, the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau, Undergraduate Fellowships and Research and more. |
| 12:30 p.m. | Program Meetings Meeting locations will be posted in June Parents and families are invited to join their student and attend these meetings. Program leaders will share details about program schedules and expectations and will be available to answer questions |
| 2 p.m. | Students: Programs Begin |
| 2 p.m. | Families: University Welcome Weis Center Concert Hall University officials welcome and advise family members on the first year at Bucknell. Light refreshments will be served before the welcome; parents and families are invited to stay after to mingle. |
Note: Dates and times are tentative and subject to change.
Whom It’s For
All first-year and transfer students new to Bucknell are welcome, and no prior outdoor experience is necessary. Detailed information, including medical and waiver forms, will be provided when you register.
Cost
$550, including all meals, program expenses and a T-shirt. Financial waivers are available if needed.
Contact
Anthony Molinaro, Director of Outdoor Education and Leadership.
oelbuckwild@bucknell.edu