River Explorer Youth Camp – Chattahoochee River
Youth, ages 10-12, of all skill levels have the opportunity to try out different paddlesports on the Chattahoochee River! Campers will have fun and make new friends while learning new skills.
Overview
A summer camp adventure they’ll never forget! NOC invites kids ages 10-12 to experience the world of paddlesports in this multi-day introductory camp.
Have a teen interested in camp? Try our Explorer Camp for Teens!
Campers will explore this flat water section of the Chattahoochee River while having fun and learning the fundamentals of various river crafts like sit-on-top kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, whitewater rafts, Duckies (inflatable kayaks), and canoes on the scenic Chattahoochee River. Professionally trained NOC guides will fit campers with gear and personal flotation devices and teach them the proper techniques to enjoy and paddle the river.
A great, five-day introduction to paddling that is ideal for beginner skill levels and young adventure enthusiasts that want to try out different boats, make new friends and get outside in nature.
What to Expect
Participants will begin by getting outfitted with the latest in river gear before heading out onto the Chattahoochee River with NOC Guides. Paddlers will go to appropriate sections of the Chattahoochee River to have fun, practice, and learn river paddling skills and techniques. Campers will break for lunch and finish the day navigating different crafts and having fun!
Camp runs Mondays through Fridays in the summer. Participants will check in at 9 AM and camp will end at 3 PM each day.
Learn New Skills
SUP Fundamentals
Learn to Surf the ‘Hooch with NOC’s introduction to stand-up-paddleboard fundamentals. The SUP’s combined versatility and simplicity—a stabilized surfboard with a paddle—make it ideal for any number of river adventures and level of skill. NOC guides will provide detailed instruction on paddling techniques, paddle stroke effects, river safety standards, hazards, and more.
Kayak Fundamentals
This adventure will include a day navigating the mostly flatwater section of the Chattahoochee on a sit-on-top kayak. Great for beginners, NOC guides will teach participants how to create their own river experience. With the kayak’s combination of speed and maneuverability, paddlers will learn how to ferry across the river, cover long distances and even paddle upstream.
Rafting Fundamentals
Learn to navigate a whitewater raft through rocks and waves on one of the most popular sections of the Chattahoochee River. This day will cover the fundamentals of rafting, encompassing everything learned in previous days to venture through the scenic Chattahoochee National Recreation Area in one of NOC’s whitewater rafts.
Tubing
Float along the Chattahoochee and enjoy a day of fun and sun on our tubing day! Campers get the opportunity to dip their toes in the water on a fun float day!
Dates
Before You Visit
- All necessary paddlesports equipment
- In-Course Transportation
- Paddling Instruction
NOC provides the primary gear needed for each course, including boats, paddles, and PFDs.
Participants will need to provide individual items outlined below.
Necessary Items:
- MUST HAVE Water Shoes or sandals with a heel strap – NO CROCS
- Long-sleeve sun shirt or short-sleeve shirts made of synthetic material (not cotton)
- Board shorts or nylon shorts / swimsuit / swimwear
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Lunch
Other Suggested Items:
- Extra pair of glasses or contacts (if applicable)
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Extra pair of shoes
- A bag to store wet/dirty clothes and shoes
- A towel and change of clothes
We recommend to leave all valuables at home.
Participants must be 10-12 years old. No previous experience is necessary.
Please pack a bagged lunch for your camper; suggested lunch items are below. Participants are encouraged to bring additional snacks and beverages, including a water bottle, as needed. NOC provides a water bottle refilling station onsite.
What to Pack for Lunch:
- Bottled water and juice boxes
- Granola or breakfast bars
- Raw vegetables
- Individually wrapped sandwiches
- Fresh fruit (like apples and grapes)
- Dried fruit
- String cheese
- Individual portions of packaged nuts, crackers, trail mix or chips
- Rice cakes
- Animal crackers
- Napkins and/or hand wipes
