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Pickwick Landing State Park

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Kayaking 101 at Pickwick Landing State Park

Saturday, June 21st – 9:00 AM

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Description: Kayaking 101 at Pickwick Landing State Park

Location: Pickwick Landing State Park

Ages 10 & Up (A registered adult must accompany minors)

Get ready to paddle into summer! Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore Tennessee's stunning outdoors, and we're making it easy and affordable for you to learn.

Your instructor for this class is ANDe Demetriou, an American Canoe Association (ACA) Certified Instructor Trainer and ACA-Tennessee State Director. He is also a Park Ranger at Meeman-Shelby Forest near Memphis, TN. This class is an unbelievable deal, as similar sessions typically cost between $75 and $150. Don't miss out - we're limited to 10 slots, so sign up today!

If you are bringing you're own kayak, all types are welcome.

Whether you're new to paddling, looking to connect with other enthusiasts, or want to improve your technique after a less-than-ideal experience, this class is for you.

What You'll Learn:

This class covers essential kayaking skills and safety, including:

  • Trip planning and preparation: Everything you need to know before you hit the water.
  • Essential equipment: What to carry for a safe and enjoyable paddle.
  • Understanding your boat and paddle: Get to know the parts and how they work.
  • Safety features: How bulkheads and flotation keep you safe.
  • Transporting your kayak: Learn proper carrying and transport methods.
  • Paddling techniques: Master basic posture for full-body paddling and boat control, plus fundamental strokes.
  • Entering and exiting: Learn how to get in and out of your kayak properly.
  • Rescue skills: Practice self and assisted re-entry methods if you capsize in deep water, how to empty a swamped boat, and even how to tow a swimmer.

Gear & What to Bring

If you need to borrow a kayak, paddle, and life jacket, you can add them to your registration for an additional $15.00.

Please bring:

  • Camp chair
  • Life Jacket* (included with kayak rental)

You'll be required to wear your life jacket at all times on the water.

  • Paddle (included with kayak rental)
  • Kayak (rentals available)
  • Plenty of water to drink
  • Sunscreen or a hat
  • Strap for your glasses
  • Lunch and snacks (We'll break for lunch and eat together, so please bring your own!)

What to wear:

You will get wet!

  • Quick-drying fabrics and shorts are best (avoid cotton, which tends to stay wet).
  • Closed-toe river shoes or sneakers are perfect. Please refrain from wearing flip-flops.

Weather & Important Details

We'll ensure you receive valuable land-based instruction from your dedicated instructor. If weather conditions are questionable, your Lead Instructor will make safety-based decisions about going on the water. You will always have the opportunity to choose your level of involvement; everything we do in this class is a challenge by choice.

Meeting Location: Please meet your class at 9:00 am at the kayak shed.

Questions? 

Contact Lead Instructor ANDe Demetriou at arthur.demetriou@tn.gov for any questions about the class.

For registration questions or assistance, please call Pickwick Landing State Park at 731-689-3129.

Photo Release: By registering for this class, you grant permission for Tennessee State Parks, TWRA, ACA, and the US Coast Guard Auxiliary to use any photos taken during this class.

Refunds & Cancellations: Due to the special circumstances and the many volunteers involved, we are unable to reschedule your registration or offer refunds. There is no alternate date for this class. However, in the event of a weather-related cancellation by park staff on June 21, 2025, or prior, we will offer a full refund.

Ready to make a splash? We can't wait to see you there!

Event Document:   Essential Eligibility Criteria

Contact Email:  arthur.demetriou@tn.gov

Contact Phone:  731-689-3129

Meeting Place:  Kayak Shed - Park next to Tennis Court - Click here for Map / Location Map