When are the important dates?
- The 2025 Teen Paddle will place from Aug 11-15, 2025.
- Applications will be accepted from Feb 1 - March 15, 2025.
Are there other application requirements besides the application form?
|
Yes. All paddlers are required to obtain a reference as part of their application form. The reference should come from a teacher/mentor/family friend who can attest to your interest in building leadership skills, and your interest in the environment. A link will be sent to your reference to fill out an online form. Please make sure to have your reference's preferred email address ready when you go through the online application, as it is a required question.
|
What is the schedule like?
A detailed schedule will be sent upon acceptance to the program, but to give a rough idea: Day 1 of the paddle begins for a day at the Patuxent River Park where we will introduce paddle safety and leadership skill building. Monday night through Thursday will be our overnight camping adventure as part of the "marsh life" of the Patuxent River. Teen Leaders stay in tents, prepare meals with a gas stove and have limited running water at most camp sites. Campfires are a nightly event and s'mores are guaranteed. Teen Leaders blog about their experiences for loved ones back home to enjoy while they are away and the Friday afternoon presentation at Patuxent River Park for friends, family, and park visitors is a MUST SEE!
DROP OFF AND PICK UP HERE
PATUXENT RIVER PARK
16000 Croom Airport Rd, Upper Marlboro
What is the cost of the paddle?
Fees for Teen Paddle:
Recognizing that different families have different abilities to pay, we offer voluntary three-tier pricing for the Teen Paddle. Parents and guardians may choose the tier that is most suitable for their budget and family. No matter your choice in tier, your paddler/s will receive the same experience. This tiered pricing offers the opportunity for families to take an active role in choosing the cost of their teen's environmental leadership paddle experience.
Here is what the three tiers represent:
Recognizing that different families have different abilities to pay, we offer voluntary three-tier pricing for the Teen Paddle. Parents and guardians may choose the tier that is most suitable for their budget and family. No matter your choice in tier, your paddler/s will receive the same experience. This tiered pricing offers the opportunity for families to take an active role in choosing the cost of their teen's environmental leadership paddle experience.
Here is what the three tiers represent:
- Tier III: This rate does not reflect the true cost of the paddle. This reduced rate is made possible by Friends of Jug Bay and the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Maryland. This tier is ideal for families with multiple teens. Tier III rate is $200
- Tier II: This rate reflects the cost of staff, utilities, and other operational costs. This tier is partially subsidized but offers families the opportunity to give a little more. Tier II rate is $250
- Tier I: This rate accounts most closely to the actual cost of the paddle. It includes the day to day costs of Tier II plus maintenance, food, office expenses, and other administrative costs. Families that choose this rate are choosing to provide much needed upgrades and grow for the future. Tier I rate is $300
What are the gear requirements?
A packing list will be sent upon acceptance to the program, and most camping gear is provided by the program (ie. canoes, paddles, life jackets, dishes). Items on the packing list are strong recommendations based on many years of camping in all weather. Shop what you already own before running out to purchase any new equipment. It is up to you on how you would like to handle your gear needs, but we highly recommend quick dry, non-cotton based fabrics. Closed-toe water shoes are required.
Are there experience requirements?
|
Our program accepts paddlers of all levels. As long as you are willing to learn new skills and challenge yourself to grow as a leader and team member, you are encouraged to apply. Our only requirements are that you feel somewhat confident being in or on the water, have the ability to manage their physical needs during paddling, camping, and hiking.
|
|
How far will we paddle?
Distances are approximate and times depend on the speed of the group. We paddle in (almost) all weather!
- Day 1: canoe safety training (you WILL get wet!)
- Day 2: 8.5mi
- Day 3: 3mi
- Day 4: 4mi
