It is rather a bad thing. Cal Poly does have once-in-awhile events on campus but I don't see a whole lot of students participating (unless it involves free hotdogs). But due to the U.S. economy and wars, happy days will be gone for awhile.
Cal Poly does not pop up to any high school students when it comes to fun. I've known a few high school students who asked me how it was at Cal Poly and if it is fun on campus with clubs. I answered in my honest opinion, Cal Poly is not a fun school at all. Both of them are attending junior college even though they got accepted to Cal Poly. They told me they plan on transfering to UCLA or UCI from junior college.
UC campuses have more of a social environment. Why you ask? I think it is because the students are more involved, have pride (Trojans)/spirits and very enthusiastic overall (general speaking). They like where they are and where they are going in their life.
Aren't they building new residential suites because of the large number of students that were unable to get into the dorms in the first place? On my first year of Cal Poly, I could not get into the campus dormitory and I had to be placed on a waiting list.
Back to the subject, anyone can make their college life fun and enjoyable. It is up to you to make your decisions on which campus organization to join and which events to participate.