River Explorer Four-Day Kids & Teen Camp Chattahoochee River
Kids and teens 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 junior paddlers to experience the world of paddlesports in this multi-day introductory camp.
Campers will get to explore the Chattahoochee River, while having fun and learning the fundamentals of different river crafts like sit-on-top kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, whitewater rafts, and canoes on the scenic Chattahoochee River. NOC professionally trained guides will fit campers with gear and pfds and teach them the proper techniques to enjoy the river.
A great, four-day introduction to paddling that is ideal for kids and teens of 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 then finish the day navigating different crafts and having fun!
Camp runs Mondays through Thursdays in the summer. Participants will check in at 9AM at either the NOC Roswell Outpost in Roswell (day 1-2) or NOC’s Powers Island Outpost (Day 3-4) in Sandy Springs, and the camp will end at 3PM each day.
Camp Itinerary
Day 1: Canoe Fundamentals at NOC Roswell Outpost
Learn to explore the beauty and serenity of the Chattahoochee River from the comfort of a classic craft, the river running canoe. This traditional boat is a great way to experience the river and is the perfect introduction to watersports for kids. NOC canoe fundamentals are taught by NOC guides who will provide thorough instruction on paddle stroke techniques, boat and river safety standards, hazards, and more. Once attendees learn canoe fundamentals at Azalea Park, they will be shuttled upstream for a downstream canoe paddle from Don White to Azalea.
Location: NOC Outposts on the Chattahoochee River
Day 2: SUP Fundamentals at NOC Roswell Outpost
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. Once attendees learn SUP fundamentals at Azalea Park, they will be shuttled upstream for a downstream SUP paddle from Don White to Azalea.
Location:NOC Outposts on the Chattahoochee River
Day 3: Kayak Fundamentals at NOC Metro Outpost
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.
Location: NOC Outposts on the Chattahoochee River
Day 4: Rafting Fundamentals at NOC Metro Outpost
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.
Location: NOC Outposts on the Chattahoochee River
Location
Location
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:
- Long-sleeve sun shirt or short-sleeve shirts made of synthetic material (not cotton)
- Board shorts or nylon shorts / swimsuit / swimwear
- Water Shoes or sandals with a heel strap
- 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 12-15 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
