Do I need prior kayaking experience to join the class?

No previous experience is required; the class is designed for complete beginners.

What is the minimum age for this trip?

Participants must be at least 10 years old.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, all guests receive a personal flotation device included in the class.

Can I rent paddling gear if I don’t have my own?

Kayaks, paddles, and PFDs are supplied as part of the experience.

What should I bring to the class?

Bring water, snacks, and wear suitable clothing and shoes as recommended.

Are private groups available?

Yes, private trips can be arranged with advance notice and minimum group size.

Kayak Basics with Frog Hollow Outdoors in Durham, NC | Guided Tour | Boat Tour

Frog Hollow Outdoors offers a perfect gateway for newcomers to the world of kayaking through their Kayak Basics class, located near the vibrant outdoor scene of Durham, North Carolina. Over the course of 1.5 to 2 hours, participants get hands-on instruction designed to build confidence on the water. This is not just a paddle around—the curriculum covers fundamental kayak anatomy, safe wet-exit procedures, and essential stroke techniques, laying a solid foundation for further paddling adventures.

Durham’s proximity to several freshwater spots—including the lower Eno River, Falls Lake, and Jordan Lake’s quieter non-motorized waterways—makes it an ideal classroom. These waters wind through mixed hardwood forests and rolling hills typical of the Piedmont region, providing a tranquil yet engaging setting. Select locations offer sit-on-top kayaks, which add stability and ease for beginners eager to gain balance and control.

Frog Hollow Outdoors distinguishes itself by maintaining small group sizes, usually between 2 and 12 paddlers, ensuring personalized attention from experienced instructors. Their flexible approach includes rotating meet locations, accommodating environmental conditions and participants’ accessibility. Safety is paramount, with a focus on wet exits and self-rescue skills that equip each paddler with confidence under varying water conditions.

For locals and visitors alike, this class is more than just a skill session; it’s an introduction to the region’s rich natural landscape, from the clear waters to abundant wildlife like great blue herons and the occasional river otter. Frog Hollow Outdoors supports sustainable paddling practices that protect these aquatic habitats.

Whether you’re planning to venture further into North Carolina’s lakes and rivers or just want a fun, informative water experience close to Durham, Frog Hollow’s Kayak Basics stands out as the essential first step on the water.

About Frog Hollow Outdoors

Frog Hollow Outdoors is a Durham-area outfitter offering paddling trips, rentals, instruction, and guided adventures across the Triangle region of North Carolina.

The business runs a range of experiences including self-guided Traveling Outpost trips, self-serve stand up paddleboard rentals, sit-on-top kayak and canoe outings at West Point on the Eno, guided paddle trips, private instruction, and specialty events such as Paddle Under the Stars with Morehead Planetarium and Eno River Paddle and Beer Tasting with Eno River Brewing. Frog Hollow also leads longer explorations like the Black River Three Sisters Paddle and the Great Dismal Swamp Lake Drummond Exploration, plus community-focused activities such as Stream Cleanup events and Sunrise or Sunset paddles.

Equipment is provided for guided trips and many rentals; advance registration is recommended to guarantee boat use and reserve gear. Trips accommodate a range of skill levels from beginners learning basic techniques in Canoe, Kayak, or SUP Basics classes to intermediate paddlers on longer outings. Private Guided Paddle Trips and Private Deliveries offer customizable options for groups and events. A Waitlist option allows booking notification if spaces open.

Frog Hollow’s collaborations with local institutions and varied trip formats — from self-guided to fully guided, instructional to exploratory — make it a practical choice for paddlers seeking regional waterways, wildlife viewing, or social outings. The business emphasizes safety, regional stewardship, and convenient online registration for most events. Schedules, equipment details, and beginner resources are published online so participants can plan trips with clear expectations and safety guidance.