Basic Boating Camp
In our basic boating camp children will learn sailing, canoeing, kayaking, Stand up Paddling and windsurfing and boating safety. They will be taught how to capsize and recover in each boat. Camps are offered to children ages 7-17. Each session is Monday – Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm Instruction (8:30am-3:30pm)
Sailing - On sailing day, each student will learn the fundamentals of rigging, points of sail, knots, and how to operate one of our Sac State Aquatic Center sailboats (Quest, Zest, Pico, or Quba). Before sailing solo, campers will perform a capsize drill to ensure they know how to safely right a capsized sailboat. Depending on the campers’ age, ability, and wind conditions, instructors may sail with them.
Windsurfing - Campers will build on their skills and learn the basics of windsurfing. They will practice different foot placements on the board, understand wind directions, and learn rescue positions. Water play and games are integral parts of the windsurfing experience and are typically combined with stand-up paddling.
Stand up Paddling – Known as SUP, each camper will learn to paddle comfortably on their own youth board. Instruction will cover the importance of the safety leash, the T-grip, and proper paddling strokes and turns. This activity is typically paired with our windsurfing activity.
Canoeing - This day will equip students with the skills needed to navigate a canoe to different locations around Lake Natoma. Instruction will include paddling strokes, balance, safety, and rescue techniques. Additionally, campers will use teamwork to perform a capsize drill to safely right a capsized canoe. The distance paddled will depend on the age and ability of the campers.
Kayaking - On kayak day, campers will paddle to various locations around Lake Natoma, including Blackberry Island, the Lagoons, and Turtle Alley. As they explore these areas, they will practice different paddle strokes while working with a partner in one of our tandem (two-person) kayaks. The distance paddled will depend on the age and ability of the campers. Make sure campers apply extra sunscreen to their legs and wear a hat!
Boating Safety - Most serious boating accidents involve motorboats. Proper care, handling, and equipment are crucial for safe and enjoyable boating. Classroom time is very valuable on Friday (Due to Covid many of the lessons will be held outside). The California Division of Boating and Waterways Safety Exam is available to every Basic camper. The Aquatic Center used the DBAW Safety curriculum from “AquaSmart” Boating Safety skits are performed every Friday before lunch. After lunch, each camp will rotate to stations that align with each lesson for a fun-filled Friday!
Aqua Smart Lessons are:
1- Learn to swim!
2- Wear a life Jacket! (also known as a Personal Floatation Device (PFD)
3- Learn to Float!
4- Learn to rescue safely!
5- Look before you leap!
6- Don’t Overload your boat!
7- Stay with your boat!
8-Learn the boating Rules of the road “water”!
9- Alcohol, Drugs and boating don’t mix!
10- Keep our waterways clean! Be polite don’t pollute
Awards are also presented to outstanding campers.
Camp Details
Camp Fee: $425.00 per week
Offered All 9 Weeks
Ages: 7-17
Basic camp is broken down into age categories, that are listed below.
| Age Group |
Camp |
|---|---|
| 7 | Guppies |
| 8 | Starfish |
| 9 | Turtles |
| 10 | Dolphins |
| 11 | Seals |
| 12 | Stingrays |
| 13+ | Sharks |
Important Notice
If you are registering for summer camp online, please download and print the camper packet. Your camper will need this for Monday morning check-in, and without it your camper will not be eligible to participate in activities. Bring the completed packet to the Sac State Aquatic Center with you on the first day of camp and as it will not be accepted early.
2025 Session Dates
| Section | Days | Time | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Camp Week #1 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | June 2 |
June 6 |
| Basic Camp Week #2 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | June 9 | June 13 |
| Basic Camp Week #3 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | June 16 | June 20 |
| Basic Camp Week #4 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | June 23 | June 27 |
| Basic Camp Week #5 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | July 7 | July 11 |
| Basic Camp Week #6 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | July 14 | July 18 |
| Basic Camp Week #7 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | July 21 | July 25 |
| Basic Camp Week #8 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | July 28 | August 1 |
| Basic Camp Week #9 | Mon – Fri | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | August 4 |
August 8 |
So Long Summer #10 Mon-Thurs 8:00 AM-4:00 PM August 11 August 14
Special notes
- It is recommended that parents drop off their children at the Aquatic Center at 8:00 AM. (Camp instruction begins at 8:30 AM) Camp instruction ends at 3:30 PM. Pick up time is between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM.
- Pick up is NOT permitted between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM.
- Child must provide their own lunch, water bottle, and sunscreen.
- Children are required to wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times! (Provided by the Aquatic Center)
- Campers receive a free T-shirt!
- Parents Night an opportunity for children to show of their new skill to their families
- Ask you instructor about our Friday Theme Days!