What is the minimum age for participants?

The camp is open to kids aged 10 to 16 years old.

Are prior paddling skills required?

No previous experience is needed; all skill levels are welcome with professional instruction provided.

What safety measures are in place?

A 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio ensures personalized attention, all instructors are professionally trained and all participants must be able to swim.

What should campers bring?

Campers should bring water shoes or flip flops, a swimsuit, sunblock, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

Is there a restroom available on site?

Yes, restroom facilities and changing rooms are available at the Charleston SUP Safaris shop.

What wildlife might campers see?

Participants often see bottlenose dolphins and various native coastal birds during the camp.

Explore Folly River: Kids’ SUP & Kayak Summer Camp on Folly Beach

Folly Beach, South Carolina, known for its striking Atlantic coastline and abundant wildlife, becomes an unforgettable classroom for young adventurers at the Summer Camp hosted by Charleston SUP Safaris. This specialized camp invites kids aged 10 to 16 to learn stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking along the tranquil Folly River, just minutes from downtown Folly Beach. With professional instructors rooted in marine science and Lowcountry ecology, campers not only gain paddling skills but also an intimate connection with the unique ecosystem of the South Carolina coast. The Folly River setting offers mild flatwater conditions ideal for beginners, making it an excellent location to master watercraft basics safely. Here, participants encounter charismatic bottlenose dolphins, native shorebirds, and exquisite salt marsh habitats that shape this coastal environment. The camp curriculum strikes a perfect balance between hands-on paddle instruction—including SUP ground school and in-water technique—and ecological education. Campers learn how tides, winds, and river dynamics influence water conditions, paired with lessons in water safety to ensure confidence and respect for the environment. Each 3-hour session starts with a friendly check-in at 83 Center St, Folly Beach, where campers gear up with PFD lifejackets and paddles provided by the outfitter. After a thorough safety briefing, groups launch into the calm waters, progressing through skill drills in a 5:1 student-to-instructor setting that fosters personal attention and steady progression. Midway, the group pauses for a water break as guides share fascinating observations, including a captivating eco talk on local dolphin behaviors like strand feeding, shedding light on these creatures’ hunting tactics. At low tide, the adventure extends to a secluded private beach perfect for a refreshing swim—an unforgettable Wild Lowcountry moment. The experience closes with a group photo commemorating new friendships and achievements. Back at the shop, campers can refill water bottles and relax, surrounded by a welcoming atmosphere that emphasizes both fun and learning. Charleston SUP Safaris’ Summer Camp is a standout choice for families seeking a dynamic blend of outdoor activity and environmental education in Folly Beach. The outfitter’s deep respect for local ecology and professional guidance makes it a unique part of the region’s adventure offerings. Parents can rest assured their kids are in safe, knowledgeable hands that foster a lifelong appreciation of the coast’s natural treasures. Whether embarking on paddling basics, wildlife spotting, or just soaking up sun and salt air, young campers leave energized by this authentic South Carolina outdoor experience.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for kids with basic fitness comfortable spending time on water and moderate physical activity.

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins
Great blue herons

History

Folly Beach has long been a fishing and maritime hub, with the Folly River serving as an important waterway for local communities and wildlife alike.

Conservation

Charleston SUP Safaris emphasizes low-impact paddling and educates campers on protecting the sensitive coastal ecosystem during their visits.

Charleston SUP Safaris is a Folly River-based paddle company offering guided kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) experiences, rentals, lessons, and seasonal programs. The operator schedules eco-tours, sunset and full-moon paddles, fitness and SUP yoga classes, surf lessons at Surfs Up! Folly, and specialty trips such as Morris Island Lighthouse paddles. Rentals range from two-hour sessions to multi-day and week-long private SUP and kayak rentals, with options for sit-on-top or sit-in kayaks. Each rental and tour includes essential instruction, safety gear, and the option to add guided tours with certified lifeguards. Expert guides share local natural history and wildlife insights—dolphins, pelicans, crabs, and native birds are common sightings—connecting participants to Lowcountry ecology. Programs accommodate all skill levels: beginner-friendly lessons and flatwater river instruction build confidence, while surf-focused SUP lessons and longer expeditions challenge more experienced paddlers. Family-friendly activities include a Safari summer camp for kids that blends paddle skills with marine education. Signature offerings highlight timing and scenery—morning calm-water tours, afternoon wildlife paddles, sunset eco-tours, and monthly full-moon excursions. Safety, education, and environmental stewardship are emphasized throughout operations. Charleston SUP Safaris supports memorable outdoor experiences with professional equipment, knowledgeable staff, and accessible scheduling across short hourly tours up to extended rentals. The company's diverse trip roster and local expertise make it a reliable choice for visitors seeking guided paddling, wildlife-focused eco-tours, lessons, or flexible rental options on Folly River and nearby coastal waters. Bookings are available for individuals, couples, families, school groups, and corporate team-building paddles year-round, with flexible scheduling options.

Base locationFolly Beach, South Carolina

Tours offered24+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace