The Wood County Park District offers canoeing and kayaking programs and opportunities.
*Paddle the Pond is back for 2023.
Join us on the 2nd and 4th Mondays in June, July, and August from 4:00 – 7:30 pm at the W.W. Knight Nature Preserve. This is a drop-in program. No registration is required. Equipment & instruction are provided.
Free & open to all!
June 12 & 26
July 10 & 24
August 14 & 28
Add your name to the Paddle program interest list.
Are you an avid paddler interested in volunteering for Paddle the Pond?Learn more and register here.
If you have your own paddle craft, you can launch from Otsego Park, William Henry Harrison Park, and Buttonwood/Betty C. Black Recreation Area (water level and weather permitting). Please exercise caution and safe practices, including wearing life jackets.
Check out the Maumee River Trail map and brochure.
Kingston Rehabilitation adaptive paddle
Our kayak and canoe programs are led by instructors that are certified through the American Canoe Association, an international leader in paddle sports education. From beginner-friendly paddle skills to advanced rescue techniques, our programs are backed by bona fide curriculum and knowledgeable instructors.
Interested in a class? Provide your information to the Paddling Class Interest Form.
The Adaptive Paddling endorsement by the American Canoe Association enables our instructors to cater to the needs of paddling enthusiasts with diverse physical and mental abilities. Set up your personal adaptive paddling appointment by contacting:
Craig Spicer | cspicer@wcparks.org – Kayak & Canoe Touring Level 2, Adaptive Paddling Endorsement
Bill Hoefflin | bhoefflin@wcparks.org – Kayak & Canoe Touring Level 2”
We can serve physical and mental adaptations by appointment.
Click here for the Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Learn how to right your kayak and be safe in the wate
Kayaking and Canoeing are fun!
Every Monday in summer, visit the W.W. Knight Nature Preserve for Paddle the Pond. This is a free paddle experience provided from 4:00 – 7:30 pm. Certified instructors are on-hand to provide a brief safety lesson. All gear is provided. The last Monday of the month, kayaks are available as well as the canoes.
Ages: 12 years of age and older to paddle a kayak and 4 years of age or older to ride in a canoe.
Additional Safety and Skills classes are taught for both Canoe and Kayak. Our certified instructors lead these courses.