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Black River

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Kayaking 101 for National Safe Boating Week

Saturday, May 16, 2026

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

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We're sorry. This event is no longer available, but we have many more wonderful programs in store for you!

Event Details:


Summer is right around the corner and kayaking is a great way to enjoy South Carolina’s beautiful outdoors! South Carolina State Parks and the certified paddlesports instructors of ACA South Carolina are teaming up to get you started! 

As part of National Safe Boating Week, certified ACA Kayak instructors are volunteering their time to offer you a special opportunity to take these classes for just $15. Typically, these same classes would cost between approximately $100! We are limited to 15 slots per class so sign up now! All types of kayaks are welcome.

If you are new to paddling, looking to meet paddling friends or have had a bad experience and are looking to learn a better way to go about it, sign up now.

Below is a short list of the types of things that will be covered in the class:

Trip planning, preparation, and prevention

What equipment you should carry

Parts of the boat, parts of the paddle

Understanding how bulkheads/floatation help make you safer

How to properly carry & transport your boat

Basic posture for full body paddling and boat control

Basic paddling strokes

How to get in and out of your boat properly

How to re-enter a kayak if you capsize in deep water (multiple methods for self and assisted rescue)

How to empty a swamped boat

How to tow a swimmer

If you need to borrow a kayak, paddle and life jacket, South Carolina State Parks is making this gear available to you at no charge as a special opportunity for this class during National Safe Boating Week.

Keep in mind we will be paddling and practicing skills for what to do if you capsize, so you will get wet. Quick drying fabrics and shorts. Please do not wear flip flops. Closed-toe river shoes or sneakers are perfect. You need shoes that attach at your ankles and provide some amount of traction.


What to Bring:


Water, snacks/lunch, hat, sunglasses with strap

Meeting Location:


The Meadows on Black River

Program Host:  Jim Stanton

Contact Email:  jstanton@scprt.com

Contact Phone:  8649188475