BEND CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Four Days of Kayaks, SUPs, Games and Crafts on Bend’s High Desert
A four-day day camp for kids ages 8–12 that blends paddling instruction, on-land games and crafts on a private High Desert property east of Bend.
Four Days of Kayaks, SUPs, Games and Crafts on Bend’s High Desert.
This four-day Day Camp led by Bend Kayak School brings kids aged 8–12 to a High Desert property on the east end of Bend for paddling, games and crafts. Days are structured to teach basic paddle skills, encourage teamwork and exploration, and adapt activities to water and weather conditions so every child can try new things at their own pace.
Route Schematic
Daily Activity Flow
A typical day cycles through team games, paddling sessions and craft or exploration periods across the property.
Morning Drop-off and Team Building
Camp begins with group games that introduce participants to one another and establish safety and teamwork routines.
Paddling Sessions on the On-site Water
Students spend time on a small body of water on the property working on basics like paddle grip, balance and simple maneuvers using kayaks and SUPs.
Crafts and Indoor Options
When weather dictates or for a change of pace, the group moves to an indoor area for crafts and quieter activities.
Exploration and Free Play
Afternoons can include on-property exploration, shoreline play and relaxed time together before pickup.
Participants must be between 8 and 12 years old and are supervised throughout; activities are presented as 'challenge by choice' so students can opt into levels of activity that match their comfort. Bring sun and rain layers to be prepared for variable High Desert weather.
What the day feels like
What a Day Feels Like
Each camp day runs from morning drop-off through late-afternoon pick-up and mixes team-building games, supervised paddling on a small on-site waterbody, and creative crafts. Instructors tailor the balance of water games and land-based activities to group energy and weather, ensuring a playful, confidence-building environment.
THE SKILLS
Foundations of Paddling and Water Safety
Kids are introduced to basic paddling techniques, proper gear and supervised water play — all designed as challenge-by-choice activities so participants progress at a comfortable pace.
THE GEAR
All the Essentials Provided
The program supplies kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and lifejackets along with camp guides and structured instruction, so families only need to bring personal layers, sunscreen, food and a water bottle.
THE SETTING
High Desert Play on a Private Property
Activities take place on a small body of water and around an outdoor area on the east side of Bend; there’s also an indoor space for crafts if weather forces a move inside.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this camp suits — and who it doesn’t.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a four-day day camp with daily drop-off at 9:00 a.m. and pickup at 4:00 p.m.
Parents should pack sunscreen, a water bottle, backpack, quick-drying clothes, towel and change of clothing, wool or fleece layers, rain layers (weather dependent), sturdy shoes, lunch and snacks.
The program provides kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, lifejackets, camp guides, instruction, games and crafts.
Run by Bend Kayak School on a High Desert property on the east end of Bend, the camp is offered in partnership with May McCool's Swim School.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages is the camp for?
The Day Camp is offered for children ages 8–12.
What are daily hours?
Daily drop-off is at 9:00 a.m. and pickup is at 4:00 p.m.
What gear does the camp provide?
Organizers provide kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and lifejackets, plus camp guides, instruction, games and crafts.
What should parents pack for their child?
Parents should supply sunscreen, a water bottle, backpack, quick-drying clothes, towel and change of clothing, wool or fleece layers, rain layers (weather dependent), sturdy shoes, lunch and snacks.
Where are activities held?
Activities take place on a small body of water and around the outdoor property on the east end of Bend, with an indoor area available for crafts if needed.
How are activities tailored to different comfort levels?
Classes are run as challenge-by-choice activities so students can participate at a level that feels right for them.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-18T12:02:58.606Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.