Youth Paddle Sports Camps in Canmore | Ages 7–12 | GT Paddle Sports
Paddle the Canadian Rockies
Safe, Supervised Paddle Adventures for Kids
Parents want their kids to have adventure, but they also want to know the experience is planned, supervised, and appropriate. That’s exactly where Green Tongue Adventures’ youth paddle sports camps fit in.
Our programs introduce children to paddle sports through structured learning, guided exploration, and supervised outdoor challenges. Kids learn how to move on and around the water, use gear properly, support their group, and build confidence in a real mountain environment.
The goal is not just to keep kids busy for the day. It’s to help them become more capable, thoughtful, and confident outside.
What’s Included
What Kids Learn in Our Paddle Sports Camps
Youth paddle sports camps are designed to help children build comfort around water while learning practical paddling and outdoor skills. Depending on the program, activities may include canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, water safety, teamwork challenges, rescue awareness, basic paddling strokes, gear use, and outdoor problem-solving.
The program encourages kids to try new things in a supervised setting. They may face small challenges, work with teammates, listen to instructor guidance, and learn how to make smart choices around water.
This kind of outdoor learning helps kids build leadership, self-sufficiency, teamwork, and resilience. They leave with skills they can use again with friends, family, school groups, or future outdoor programs.
Age Groups
Built for Young Adventurers Ages 7–12
Our youth paddle sports camps are designed for kids ages 7–12 who are ready to take part in active outdoor learning.
Ages 7–9
Younger campers focus on comfort, simple paddle movements, listening skills, group awareness, and safe participation. Activities are kept approachable, fun, and confidence-building.
Ages 10–12
Older campers may work on stronger paddling skills, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and more independent decision-making under instructor supervision.
All participants should have a strong swimming ability and be comfortable following instructions in an outdoor group setting.
Program Support
Green Tongue Adventures helps kids learn paddle sports in a safe, supervised, and supportive outdoor setting. Campers get guided instruction, water safety basics, group activities, and the structure they need to build confidence on and around the water.
- Supervised paddle sport instruction
- Canoe, kayak, or SUP activities
- Water safety education
- Team-building challenges
- Instructor-led group support
- Safety briefings and supervision
Parent Packing List
A well-packed child has a better day outside. Please send your child with comfortable outdoor clothing, water-ready items, food, and layers that can handle changing mountain weather.
- Strong swimming ability
- Wet suit or water layer
- Closed-toe shoes
- Sun and rain protection
- Water, lunch, and snacks
- Towel and dry warm clothes
Camp Essentials
Everything Parents Need to Know Before Camp
We keep youth paddle sports camps simple for families to prepare for. From program support and safety planning to what your child should bring, this section covers the key details parents need before booking.
Camp Schedule
A Typical Youth Paddle Camp Day
Exact timing may vary by program, weather, water conditions, and group needs, but most camp days follow a clear structure that helps kids feel settled and ready.
Morning Check-In
Campers arrive, meet instructors, and get ready with gear.
Safety Briefing
Instructors explain rules, water safety, and group expectations.
Skill Session
Kids practice paddling, balance, boat handling, and teamwork.
Adventure Activity
Campers use their new skills in a guided activity.
Lunch & Rest
Kids eat, hydrate, warm up, and reset.
Afternoon Challenge
Back in Canmore around 1:00 PM
Wrap-Up
Instructors review the day, organize gear, and prepare for pickup.
What’s Included
Safety Is Built Into Every Program
Youth paddle sports need more than enthusiasm. They need planning, supervision, communication, and instructors who understand outdoor risk.
Green Tongue Adventures takes youth safety seriously. Programs are structured with safety briefings, ongoing assessment, instructor supervision, appropriate equipment, communications, medical and shelter kits, certifications, and professional development.
For overnight programs, instructors undergo vulnerable sector checks and do not operate alone during overnight sessions. Parents can feel confident knowing the program is designed with preparation, care, and active supervision from start to finish.
Safety is not treated as a box to check. It is part of every decision made before, during, and after the activity.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Youth Paddle Sports Camps
What ages can join youth paddle sports camps?
Our youth paddle sports camps are designed for kids ages 7–12. Activities may be adjusted based on age, comfort level, group ability, and conditions.
Does my child need previous paddling experience?
No previous paddling experience is required for many youth programs. Campers should be ready to listen, participate, and try new skills in a supervised outdoor setting.
Does my child need to know how to swim?
Yes. Participants need a strong swimming ability for youth paddle sports programs.
What should my child bring?
Campers should bring closed-toe shoes, sun protection, rain protection, plenty of water, food, snacks, warm layers, dry clothing, a towel, and any personal medication. Wet suits and PFDs may be available to rent.
Are the programs safe?
Safety is a major focus. Programs include instructor supervision, safety briefings, planning, communications, medical and shelter kits, certifications, ongoing assessment, and professional development.
Areas We Serve
Youth Paddle Camps for Canmore, Banff & the Bow Valley
Green Tongue Adventures welcomes families, locals, visitors, schools, and youth groups from across the Canadian Rockies.
Main Areas We Serve
- Canmore
- Banff
- Kananaskis
- Bow Valley
- Lake Louise
- Calgary
- Cochrane
- Exshaw
- Dead Man’s Flats
- Harvie Heights
- Seebe
- Southern Alberta
Whether your family lives in Canmore or is visiting the Bow Valley for summer adventure, our youth paddle sports camps give kids a meaningful way to experience the water.
Get In Touch
Have Questions Before Booking?
Choosing the right outdoor program for your child matters. If you’re wondering whether your child is ready, what gear they need, how safety works, or which camp fits best, reach out to our team before booking.