Youth Programs



Get set to get wet and have a blast! Whether your child has never picked up a paddle, or is already a paddling veteran there's something for everyone in Rutabaga's summer programs. Paddling is a great way for youth to develop self-confidence and independence, awareness and love of nature, and a sense of accomplishment that comes from meeting a new challenge.

Rutabaga Youth Programs teaches canoeing, kayaking, camping skills, and adventures all over Madison. Use our interactive calendar to find a day and time that work for you, and then take a second to learn more out our stellar instructors.


Kids Paddling Sampler
skill level:  beginner
ages:  Youth entering grades 3-5
Kids' Kayaking Series
The perfect way to introduce your kids to kayaking
skill level:  beginner
ages:  Youth entering grades 3-5
Kids Quest: Paddling Scavenger Hunt
Spend a week hunting for clues and treasure on the lakes!
skill level:  open to all
ages:  Youth entering grades 3-5
Piccolo Paddlers
Who knew learning could be so much fun?
skill level:  beginner
ages:  Youth entering grades 3-5
Mysteries of the Marsh: A Paddling Nature Camp
Water testing, turtle catching, and bug identification;
what could be more fun?
skill level:  beginner
ages:  Youth entering grades 3-5
Kids' Adventure
skill level:  intermediate
ages:  Youth entering grades 3-5
Teen Stand Up Paddling
The best possible combination of paddling and surfing
skill level:  open to all
ages:  Youth entering grades 6-8
Teen Paddling Sampler
skill level:  beginner
ages:  Youth entering grades 6-8
Teen Kayak Series
Get your teen outside and on the water
skill level:  beginner
ages:  Youth entering grades 6-8
Kayak Camp
Rutabaga's signature camp!
skill level:  beginner
ages:  Youth entering grades 6-8
Kayak Adventures
Take your skills to the next level!
Move from beginner to advanced with this class.
skill level:  intermediate
ages:  Youth entering grades 6-8