Kayak & Canoe Open House

Come spend a few hours on the water learning the fundamentals of paddling from trained instructors. You'll get hands-on experience with a short self-guided paddle right there on the lake. Kayaks are available for participants 13 and older (teens aged 13–17 need an adult along), and canoes are a great option for families with younger children. All the gear you need—boats, life jackets, and more—is provided, so you just need to show up ready to learn. A few things to keep in mind: swimmers only, please, and wear clothes that can handle getting wet along with closed-toe shoes. The instructors will handle equipment setup, but space fills up quickly on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is a good idea. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, and know that the location may shift depending on water conditions that day. For questions beforehand, the Nature Realm Visitors Center is happy to help.