Paddle Board Day August

Soak up the summer sun, get out on the water, and spend an easy afternoon paddling with Out at Camp. Whether you are brand new to stand-up paddleboarding or already feel at home on the water, join us on Sunday, August 16 at Shirley’s Bay for a relaxed community paddle day.

We are partnering with Nanook Expeditions for paddlecraft rentals. Participants are also welcome to bring their own board or reserve one of Out at Camp’s limited Gear Library paddleboards.

🌈 Who’s This For?

Everyone is welcome, with a special invitation to our 2SLGBTQ+ community and allies. This is a friendly, low-pressure day for people who want to paddle, meet others, enjoy the water, and spend time outside together.

No previous paddling experience is required.

🗓️ Date and Time

Sunday, August 16
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM

📍 Location

Shirley’s Bay Park
Ottawa, ON

Final meeting and arrival details will be shared with registered participants before the event.

🏄 Paddle Options

There are a few ways to join:

Rent through Nanook Expeditions

After registering, you will have the option to add a paddlecraft rental at checkout. Nanook will have paddleboards available, and there may also be some kayaks and canoes available on site for participants who would prefer or need a different paddle option.

Borrow from the OAC Gear Library

Out at Camp has six paddleboards available through our Gear Library on a first come, first served basis. These must be reserved separately online at:

https://outatcamp.ca/gear

Bring your own board

Already have your own paddleboard? You are welcome to bring it. Please make sure you also bring a paddle, properly fitting personal flotation device, and all other required safety equipment.

🍽️ Picnic and Social Time

There will be plenty of time on shore to relax, eat, and connect with each other before, during, and after paddling.

Bring your favourite lake-day energy, a towel, and whatever you need to feel comfortable for an afternoon outdoors. You are welcome to bring snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water.

✅ What’s Included

Your registration includes:

A welcoming Out at Camp paddle day with friendly volunteers on site
Time to paddle and socialize at Shirley’s Bay
Access to the group picnic and social area
Basic paddling guidance from an instructor with Nanook Expeditions
The option to add a Nanook Expeditions paddlecraft rental during checkout

Rental equipment, including paddlecraft, paddle, PFD, and related gear, is available as an add-on through Nanook Expeditions.

🎒 What to Bring

• Swimsuit or quick-dry clothing
• A change of clothes
• Towel
• Water bottle
• Sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Water shoes or sandals you do not mind getting wet
• Waterproof phone pouch, optional
• Your own paddleboard and safety gear, if you are bringing your own

🚗 Getting There

Shirley’s Bay Park is located in Ottawa’s west end. Parking is available near the waterfront, and the park can also be reached by bicycle.

Registered participants will receive the exact meeting location, arrival instructions, and any weather-related updates before the event.

🌦️ Weather and Water Conditions

This event is weather dependent. Out at Camp may delay, modify, or cancel paddling due to strong winds, thunderstorms, unsafe water conditions, poor air quality, or other safety concerns.

Any important changes will be communicated directly to registered participants by email.

🌿 Land Acknowledgement

We gather on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation. We honour their stewardship of these lands and waters and commit to enjoying them respectfully.

📋 How to Register

Select Register to reserve your spot. On the next page, you will be able to choose whether you need a paddlecraft rental through Nanook Expeditions.

If you plan to borrow one of Out at Camp’s six Gear Library paddleboards, please reserve it separately at: https://outatcamp.ca/gear

Come paddle with us, meet new people, and enjoy another summer afternoon on the water.