Kayak Boot Camp

​Uncommon Adventures


Sleeping Bear Sampler Remix: Learn to Kayak Boot Camp


We’ve refined this program over more than 10 years into one of the best ways to either get started in kayaking or sharpen your existing skills.


Join us for a long weekend retreat at our private 40-acre property along the beautiful Betsie River. This setting gives us direct access to some of the best paddling in Northern Michigan, with a mix of rivers, inland lakes, and Great Lakes coastal environments.


Each trip is customized around the interests and goals of the group, with flexibility built into every day. We can combine open-water instruction along the dunes and bluffs with river paddling experiences depending on conditions and preferences.


Along the way, you may encounter bald eagles, osprey, mink, trout, and bass. On calm days, we often paddle past towering dune faces, schools of fish, and even visible shipwrecks beneath the surface.


Kayaking is a broad and evolving sport—whitewater, recreational river running, sea kayaking, surf kayaking, Olympic slalom, and traditional Greenland-style paddling all offer different pathways. Most people don’t know their direction until they spend time on the water, which is why this program emphasizes exploration before expensive gear decisions.


We primarily use touring and sea kayaks, but introduce multiple styles so you can better understand what fits your goals and environment.


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Itinerary


Day 1 – Arrival & Orientation


Arrive between 7–8 PM after dinner. Settle in, get acquainted, and receive a full weekend orientation.


Day 2 – Skills & Lake Training


We begin with gear fitting and head to an inland lake for hands-on instruction:


* Forward, reverse, turning, and side strokes

* Capsize recovery and safety skills


Evening BBQ at “Casa de Kayak,” followed by videos, storytelling, and relaxation.


Day 3 – Coastal Paddle Adventure


Weather permitting, we head north for a longer coastal trip featuring:


* Dune and island views

* Possible shipwreck sightings

* Swimming stops and wildlife encounters


Dinner at a local restaurant/pub after paddling.


Day 4 – River Finale


A relaxed brunch followed by a scenic river trip through our backyard waters, introducing moving-water basics and balance skills.


Depart around 2 PM for home or your next adventure.


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2026 Dates


* May 14–17 (Camping only — all rooms full)

* May 21–24


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What’s Included


* ACA-qualified instructors

* On and off-water professional instruction

* Kayak, paddle, sprayskirt, and PFD (or bring your own)

* Rustic riverfront lodging or camping

* 3 breakfasts

* 2 dinners


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What’s Not Included / What to Bring


* Transportation to site

* Farmer John/Jane wetsuit (recommended for cool months; rentals available for $20)

* Synthetic or wool base layers (no cotton)

* Fleece jacket

* Paddle jacket or rain shell

* Neoprene boots (recommended over sandals)

* Sunscreen & sun protection

* Reusable water bottle (no single-use plastic)

* Lunch, snacks

* One dinner out

* Alcohol if desired

* Optional guide gratuity (10%+ suggested)


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Registration


A $300 deposit reserves your spot. The remaining balance is charged 30 days before the trip.


* Single occupancy: solo registration

* Double occupancy: couples or shared room option

* Shared room option available (adjusted if no roommate is matched)


If a date appears available on the calendar, space remains. If full, contact us to be waitlisted.


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Contact


Phone: 248-224-1044

Email: uamichaelgray@gmail.com


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Note


We welcome collaboration across the paddling community. This program is being cross-posted to help more people discover quality instruction and safe, meaningful time on the water. Please contact Uncommon Adventures directly for booking or questions.


#WestMichigankayakingclub

#uncommonadventures


If you’re interested in improving your kayak paddling or rescue skills consider attending our Learn to Kayak Boot Camp. Sponsored by Uncommon Adventures. 

Dates: May 14-17 (only camping option available) or May 21-24

Location: Benzie County, Michigan (Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore area)

Come and join us for good times on the water in a small group learning environment. 

For more information and registration: https://mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/sleeping-bear-sampler-remix-learn-to-kayak-boot-camp-2-3/

Feel free to reach out with questions!

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