Kids & Youth Paddling Programs & Camps
Welcome to the Collingwood Paddling Club’s Youth Programs! Located at the historic Watts Boathouse on the beautiful Collingwood Harbour, we are proud to offer safe, active, and unforgettable on-water experiences for kids and teens. Whether your child is picking up a paddle for the very first time in our wildly popular Summer Camps, or they are ready to train for the podium with our Youth Competitive Sprint Team, we have a program designed to build their confidence, fitness, and love for the water.
Find the Right Fit
Use the guide below to quickly find the programs available for your child’s age group and skill level.
| Program Name | Age Group | Experience Level | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Paddle Camps | Ages 8 - 14 | Beginner to Intermediate | Fun, Games & Water Confidence |
| Intro to Sprint Racing | Ages 9 - 14 | Beginner to Intermediate | Skill Building & Intro to Sport |
| Youth Competitive Team | Ages 9 to 16+ | Intermediate to Advanced | Racing, Fitness & Teamwork |
| Paddle All (Special Olympics) | All Ages | Beginner to Intermediate | Adaptive, 1:2 Support Ratio |
Our day camps are designed for adventurers ready to explore, discover, and make memories. Packed with weekly themes (like Survivor or Amazing Race!), campers spend their days kayaking, canoeing, playing on SUP boards, and enjoying on-land games. No previous experience is required – just a readiness for fun!
Want to see what Olympic-style sprint racing is all about? This two-week, half-day program introduces athletes to the basics of balancing, paddling, and training in sprint kayaks and canoes. (Note: Full-day options are available by combining this with Summer Camp!)
For athletes ready to take their skills to the next level. Following Long Term Athlete Development principles, our competitive programs offer dedicated coaching, morning and afternoon training sessions, and the chance to represent Collingwood at regional regattas.
Introduced by Canoe Kayak Canada, Paddle All promotes inclusive paddling for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. With an experienced paddling partner/coach providing a 1:2 support ratio, participants learn basic skills in a safe, fun, and supportive environment.
Why Parents Love Collingwood Paddling Club
-James D.
-Abigail H.
-Sarah K.
Safety is Our Top Priority
Every coach and camp counselor at the Collingwood Paddling Club is certified and trained to ensure a safe, controlled environment on the South Georgian Bay. Campers and youth athletes are monitored at all times and taught essential water safety rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do kids need to know how to paddle before joining?
Do I need to buy a lifejacket or a boat?
What happens if it rains?
Are the camp counsellors certified?
Your Child’s Next Adventure Starts Here
From first paddles to competitive racing, the Collingwood Paddling Club is a place where kids build confidence, friendships, and lifelong memories on the water.