Berkeley Blueways Paddlefest!
The Berkeley Blueways Paddlefest!
at Old Santee Canal Park, Moncks Corner, SC
Learn more ››Paddlefest! on Facebook
2010 Paddlefest! has been scheduled for September 11, 2010!
STAY TUNED for more information about the 2010 Festival as soon as it becomes available!
October 24, 2009 marked the 3rd Annual Paddlefest! This canoe and kayak extravaganza highlights paddling opportunities in beautiful Berkeley County, SC.
Berkeley Blueways is the paddling enthusiast's and nature lover's guide to Berkeley County, SC. With over 23 water trails covering 175+ miles, there is always something new to discover.
2009 Lake to Locks Paddle
Scott called the 2008 Lake to Locks paddle was one of “the most fun things” he's ever done in a kayak... Sound good?
Join Sea Kayak Carolina on Sunday, October 25th, 2009 for a paddle from a lakeside launch on lake Moultrie to the Tiderace Canal and thru the Locks: Take a look at 2008’s photo gallery for an idea of what this trip looks like.
We'll set out at 10 a.m. Cost is $30 per paddler. Sea Kayak Carolina has boats/paddles and PFDs available.
Group size is limited — please phone (843) 225-7969 to register, reserve your spot, and get all the details on this one of a kind paddling opportunity.
PADDLEFEST SCHEDULE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2009
PRESENTATIONS —
Time - Program - Presenter - Location
11:00am - History of Berkeley Blueways - Oliver Buckles - Interpretive Center
12:00pm - SCPIA Program - SCPIA Members - Interpretive Center
12:00pm - Pack Your Kayak for Camping - Charlton DuRant - Pond
1:00pm - Stand up Paddling - CCPRC - Biggin Swamp
2:00pm - Kayak Demonstrations - SCPIA Members - Biggin Swamp
3:00pm - Rigging Your Kayak - Dee Meddors - Pond -
3:00pm - Paddling the Georgia Coast - Charlton DuRant (see below)
4:00pm - Paddle Fishing - Dee Meddors - Pond
A presentation by world explorer Charlton DuRant:
3:00 p.m. - Paddling the Georgia Coast: in the Old Santee Canal Park's state of the art lecture hall, Charlton will present a lecture and slideshow on his just-completed, week-long adventure paddling the wild coast of Georgia. This presentation is an excellent prelude to the BCU 4* training and 3* assessment being conducted on the GA coast this December with Tom Nickels' instruction and Charlton as expedition leader.
WORKSHOP SCHEDULE —
Quick Start Classes
10:00am - 12:00pm - Sea Kayak Carolina - Canoe Dock - $15/person
A terrific chance to wet your feet in the world of kayaking. The Quick Start will get you up to speed on the terms and the equipment you need to be familiar with top get out and enjoy yourself safely in a kayak. Sea Kayak Carolina will have boats, paddles and life vests for participants. Be prepared to learn what all this fun is about!
›› Please phone, (843) 225-7969 to register for the Quick Start
Kayak Rescue Demonstration
3:30pm - 5:00pm - - SCPIA - Biggin Swamp - Free Demo Event
Knowing how to safely get yourself, or someone else back into a kayak on the water is an important safety skill — and with proper instruction and practice it isn't nearly as difficult as some beginning paddlers might think. Stop by the pond to see instructors from a number of South Carolina Kayak shops and schools demonstrate safety procedures, tows, reentries, rolls and other on-water rescue techniques.
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Other Paddlefest Activities —
Camping for Paddlefest Visitors
This year, we are pleased to announce that there will be FREE camping opportunities available on the shores of Lake Moultrie at the Camp Moultire Boy Scout Grounds. The camp boasts 6 major fields, accommodating up to 200 tents totals, running water, electricity, hot showers, a launching site for boats, and unparalleled views of beautiful Lake Moultrie. The campgrounds are on a first come-first serve basis, but reservations can be made by contacting Brad Sale at (843) 899-5200. Absolutely NO alcohol allowed.
Hotel Rooms for Paddlefest Visitors
If roughing it isn’t your style, you may stay at the lovely Holiday Inn Express located in Moncks Corner. The hotel is less than a mile from the festival, and be sure to ask for the special Paddlefest rate. Make your reservations today by calling the Holiday Inn at (843) 761-5900.
Food
Wholly Ground Coffee and Tea will be selling some delicious food this year. The sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, and other treats made by this locally owned coffee shop features Boar’s Head meat and local bakery goods. Stop by the Wholly Ground booth to satisfy that hunger craving.
Children’s Activities
Bring the kids along this year, as we will be providing free jump castles and other activities for children of all ages. All programs and classes at Paddlefest are family friendly and fun for all!
Juried Art Show
Stop by the Interpretive Center during Paddlefest and see local artists displaying their paddling themed creations.