Youth Camps

Our week-long summer camps offer kids a chance to discover the thrill of paddle boarding or kayaking in a fun, engaging, and safe environment. With expert instruction, kids of all skill levels will explore the San Francisco Bay, make new friends, and build lasting memories. Whether they're beginners or more advanced, each camper leaves with new skills and a love for the water.

NEW FOR 2025!

DROP-INS
Intermediate+ campers who attend at least one full session can purchase packs of 5-day drop-ins to use any time during the summer.

ADVANCED SUP
Our strongest paddlers can now sign up for an advanced-level camp, focused on new skills & more challenging paddles.

Beginner

Paddle Board

Our Beginner SUP Camp is perfect for newcomers eager to learn the basics of stand-up paddleboarding. Campers will develop essential skills in balance, paddling, and safety, all in a supportive and fun environment. No experience is necessary, making this camp the ideal starting point for anyone interested in exploring the water on a stand-up paddleboard.

Advanced

Paddle Board

New this year! Advanced SUP camp is for experienced campers who love to paddle and want to take their skills to the highest level. We’ll work on technique and introduce new concepts focused on racing form, efficient strokes, fitness and endurance. This is for competitor types who want to work hard! We’re only offering this camp for two sessions, so register soon.

Intermediate

Paddle Board or Kayak

The Intermediate SUP & Kayak Camp is designed for paddlers who already have experience and want to advance their skills. Participants will refine their technique in both paddleboarding and kayaking, with a focus on improving speed, endurance, and water navigation. This camp is a great way to take your abilities to the next level while enjoying the beauty of the Bay.

Explorers

Paddle Board or Kayak

This is an exciting camp that expands our reach to the best paddle spots in the Bay Area. We take the show on the road with paddles in Marin, the East Bay, Half Moon Bay and the Peninsula. If conditions line up, we’ll also make a push for the Bay Bridge. It’s a smaller group, so campers really bond over the adventure’s we have exploring the region by kayak or paddle board.

2025 Sessions

  1. June 2 - 6 (Beginner, Intermediate)

  2. June 9 - 13 (Beginner, Intermediate)

  3. June 16 - 20 (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)

  4. June 23 - 27 (Beginner, Intermediate, Explorer’s)

  5. June 30 - July 4 (Beginner, Intermediate)

  6. July 7 - 11 (Beginner, Intermediate)

  7. July 14 - 18 (Beginner, Intermediate)

  8. July 21 - 25 (Beginner, Intermediate)

  9. July 28 - Aug 1 (Beginner, Intermediate)

  10. Aug 4 - 8 (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)

  11. Aug 11 - 15 (Beginner, Intermediate, Explorer’s)

  12. Aug 18 - 22 (Beginner, Intermediate)

Sample Daily Schedule

Our camps are impacted by weather conditions, so we like to be flexible. We try to spend as much time on the water as possible, though balancing land-based games has also proved to be popular with the kids. In any case, we adapt the programs to suit the vibe of the group.

9:00am - Arrival. Drop off at Crane Cove Park. Circle time, stretching, pod games.

9:45am - Gear Up. Campers grab PFDs, wet suits, paddles, boards, dry bags, and leashes.

10:00am - Morning Paddle. Head out onto the Bay (weather permitting). Beginner paddlers stay close to base and learn, intermediate paddlers venture farther.

11-11:30am - Return To Crane Cove. Gear is stored for mid-day. Some days the intermediate campers will remain on their adventure.

12:00pm - Lunch / Land-based Game Time. Campers pack their own lunch. Intermediate campers may have lunch while on their adventure.

1:00pm - Afternoon Paddle. Head out onto the Bay (weather permitting). Some times we will play games on our paddle platforms in the cove.

2-2:30pm - Return To Crane Cove / Free Time. Gear is cleaned, stored for the day. Travel campers will return to the park.

3:00pm - Pick Up

Safety First

Safety is always our top priority. Every camp begins with a comprehensive safety briefing covering emergency protocols, paddling techniques, and understanding tides and currents. We ensure that campers have fun while staying safe on the water. If conditions change, we have alternative activities ready to keep campers engaged

Health & Wellness

We prioritize health and follow all recommended safety protocols. Our outdoor setting allows for natural physical distancing, and if campers spend time indoors, masks will be encouraged. The safety of our campers is always front and center. We are an inclusive camp and welcome kids of all identities and background.

Expert Counselors

Our certified counselors are more than just great instructors—they’re fun, energetic, and experts in water safety. Each counselor is CPR and first-aid certified, with strong swimming backgrounds, ensuring your child is in capable, caring hands throughout their camp experience.

Camper Abilities

To ensure the best experience, all campers must be strong swimmers. If you're unsure of which camp suits your child best, our team can help guide you to the right choice. Camps are physically demanding, so campers should be in good shape and ready for a fun challenge.

What to Bring

Once registered, you’ll receive a detailed packing list. Generally, kids should dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate beachwear, including flip-flops or water shoes. For cooler kids or those who like to swim, a wetsuit may be preferred. All essential paddling gear is provided by us!

Activities

If weather conditions keep us off the water, there’s still plenty of fun to be had! Crane Cove Park offers beachside games, wading areas, and open fields for land-based activities, ensuring your child has a full day of engaging fun no matter the conditions.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel for a full refund up to 60 days before camp begins. Cancellations between 30-60 days are eligible for credit toward any Dogpatch Paddle service or retail purchase. Within 30 days, cancellations are non-refundable unless a replacement camper is found.

Scholarships & Sliding Scale

We want every child who is interested to be able to attend Dogpatch Paddle Camps. Last year we were able to welcome a host of campers on sliding scale and scholarships thanks to our friends at the Power Station and YMCA. If you’re interested, please drop up a note and we’ll update you when we launch these..

Equipment Provided

We supply all the equipment your child will need to have an awesome week on the water, including paddles, boards, life vests, and more. If your child prefers to wear a wetsuit, they are welcome to bring one, or they can purchase one at our shop.