Guided-Kayaking
Experience the beauty of the Patuxent River with Guided Kayak Tours!
Beginner-Friendly | Ages 9+ | Accessible Launch | ACA Certified Instructors | No Rental Fees
Explore the wildlife, beaches, and scenic views of Greenwell State Park out on the water at a leisurely pace! Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, seek adventure, get active, or relax and unmind, there is so much to discover on these paddles! Offered on various dates throughout the May-October kayaking season.
No experience? No problem! Each paddle begins with a short lesson on safety and paddling basics. Plus, all equipment is provided (no rental fee required!) and the group is led at a slow pace by our American Canoe Association (ACA) Level 1 Certified Instructor.
Our Paddle Offerings
Each of our guided paddles offers a unique experience- no two paddles are the same! Click on each selection to learn more and see what dates they are offered. To register for a paddle, please select the “click here” text in each paddle type or select a paddle from the calendar below.
Explore Greenwell State Park and the shores of the Patuxent River from a new perspective- out on the water! Whether you seek action and adventure, want to get active, or are looking to connect with nature, there’s so much to discover on this two hour trip. Spot local wildlife, search for quiet beaches, and make new memories as you paddle along the scenic shoreline. So gather your group and spend the day out on the water! - Availability: These paddles are offered in early mornings and afternoons on select weekdays and weekends.
- Please click here to see all daytime paddle dates, or see the paddle event calendar below.
- Participants: 4 min. and 10 max.
- Pricing: Adults (ages 16+) $45, Minors (ages 9-15) $25
- 15% Senior Discount (Must provide valid ID)
- 15% Student Discount (Must provide valid college student ID)
Experience the views of the Patuxent River in a whole new light! As the sun sets on the water see beautiful golden skies and fully immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.- Availability: These paddles are offered on select weekday evenings during golden hour.
- Please click here to see all paddle dates, or see the paddle event calendar below.
- Participants: 4 min. and 10 max.
- Pricing: Adults (ages 16+) $45, Minors (ages 9-15) $25
- 15% Senior Discount (Must provide valid ID)
- 15% Student Discount (Must provide valid college student ID)
Greenwell Foundation would like to show its appreciation for the hard work and sacrifices of our Active, Reserved, and Retired Military Members & First Responders with this complimentary paddle.
Take time to relax and unwind in nature as we set off on the Patuxent River. This two hour paddle is set in the gorgeous waters and natural scenery of Greenwell State Park; so participants can expect to take in the views, spot wildlife, and enjoy the community around them.
- Availability: This paddle is offered exclusively for active-duty, reserved, and retired military members, veterans, and first responders as well as their family members.
- These paddles are offered on select dates.
- Please click here to see all dates, or see the paddle event calendar below.
- Participants: 4 min. and 10 max.
- Pricing: This paddle is offered FREE to active-duty, reserved, and retired military members, veterans, and first responders.
- A valid military ID or first responder ID must be presented.
- Although family members are welcome to attend, they must register as an “additional guest”. Adults (ages 16+) $45, Minors (ages 9-15) $25
Greenwell State Park was created for everyone to enjoy, and that includes the views from out on the water! This paddle provides an opportunity for seniors ages (55+) as well as individuals with physical, intellectual, cognitive and/or developmental disabilities, and their caregivers to experience our kayaking program. Participants will learn, explore, and connect with the water surrounding Greenwell State Park during this 2 hour paddle.
With a smaller maximum capacity, you can expect a more hands-on experience with a slower pace. Additional accommodations will also be considered and implemented where possible.
- Availability: This paddle is offered exclusively for seniors ages 55+, and/or individuals with physical, intellectual, and/or developmental disabilities, and/or caregivers.
- These paddles are offered on select dates.
- Please click here to see all dates, or see the paddle event calendar below.
- Participants: 4 min. and 6 max.
- Pricing: Adults (ages 16+) $45, Minors (ages 9-15) $25
- 15% Senior Discount (Must provide valid ID)
- 15% Student Discount (Must provide valid college student ID)
What’s a special event paddle?- It’s kayaking with added activities!
Friday, June 19th Summer Solstice Golden Hour Paddle: Here’s to S’more Summer Nights
Friday, August 7th Golden Hour Paddle: Watercolor Sunset
Wednesday, August 26th Quiet Morning: Watercolor Sunrise
Saturday, September 19th Grandparents Day Paddle & Picnic
- Please click here to see all dates and paddle descriptions or see the paddle event calendar below.
- Participants: 4 min. and 10 max.
- Pricing: Will differ for each paddle to include the costs of added activities.
- 15% Senior Discount (Must provide valid ID)
- 15% Student Discount (Must provide valid college student ID)
Important Registration Information For ALL Paddles: Advanced registration for all paddles is required. Dates subject to instructor availability and weather. Participants: 4 minimum required. Ages: 9+, participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All experience levels welcome. Please see the registration page for all details and available dates.
Guided Kayak Tour Schedule
Our kayaking season runs May through October. This calendar displays all scheduled Guided Kayak Tours regardless of paddle type. To learn more and register for a paddle, click an event in the calendar below and click the “Sign-Up Here” link to access that paddle’s registration page.
Why Kayak At Greenwell?
Kayaking offers a variety of physical, mental, and social benefits. This activity is a great form of low-impact exercise that improve aerobic fitness, strength, and flexibility. Because these paddles focus on experiencing the natural world around you, they also offer the time and space for peaceful meditation and stress-management. Let the sound of the waves, rhythm of the paddling, and sight of the sparkling sun on the water soothe and relax you.
Because these paddles are for groups, you also get the opportunity to share the experience and connect with family, friends, or your group as you paddle, giving you the chance to make new friends, or spend time together! As you explore and spot local wildlife in their natural habitats, you will also gain a sense of of appreciation for the natural beauty of this section of the Chesapeake Watershed. Come enjoy the experience and all the benefits kayaking has to offer!
Our Guided Kayak Tour program, like all of our programming, is designed to be accessible and inclusive so that people of all skill levels, experience levels, and abilities can participate and enjoy all of the benefits that outdoor recreational programming can offer.
The Greenwell State Park kayak launch is ADA compliant and offers an accessible path leading to it. All paddles take place with certified staff in a safe and supportive environment. The activities are centered around low-impact movement at a slow and relaxed pace. Modifications are available and the trip can be adjusted to fit the needs of individuals and groups.
The unique layout of Greenwell State Park offers a series of beaches, coastlines, and inlets all with stunning views to experience from a kayak. There are a number of different routes and places to explore!
As you paddle see if you can spot wildlife native to Southern Maryland including bald eagles, osprey, muskrats, herons, otters, jumping fish, and more. Unique to our area, you might even be able to spot groups of fossilized scallop shells and living mussels along the shore. The different tides and changing landscapes offer new sights everyday, so you never know what you might discover!
For More Information Please Contact:
Office Phone: 301-373-9775
Email: bbales-woods@greenwellfoundation.org