Local Paddling Events

Annual Orange River Water Trail Community Paddle

Saturday, June 13th – Orange River Conservation Area, Whiting

Join local area partners for a paddle on the Orange River in celebration of the water trail. We will put in on Orange Lake and paddle down the river to Playhouse Lane. An optional stop including a guided hike is available at Estey Mountain and we will all stop for a provided lunch. Canoes and gear are provided. More information and to register. 

Cobscook Institute Outdoor Skills Day Camp

June 22-26

For rising grades 6-8. Learn and practice basic skills, including canoe skills, to keep you safe and to have a fun time in the woods and on the water. We will utilize Cobscook Institute’s beautiful campus as well as the bounty of nature preserves along Cobscook Bay & The Bold Coast. More information and to register. 

Cobscook Institute Overnight Canoe Camp

July 6-11

For rising grades 7-9. On this 6-day 5-night canoe trip, participants will explore the Downeast Lakes and camp at some of the most scenic, remote campsites in eastern Maine. Each day the group will paddle on lakes and streams in traditional Passamaquoddy territory, learn canoe skills, practice wilderness camping skills, and enjoy each other’s company. Food will be cooked on an open fire. Participants will sleep in tents, have a chance to swim, fish, journal, and play games in their free time. No camping or canoeing skills are needed, just a willingness to embrace new experiences in wild places. More information and to register. 

Watershed Camp

August 10-13 – Orange River Conservation Area, Whiting

Maine Coast Heritage Trust is partnering with Maine Outdoor School to host Watershed Camp along the Orange River in Whiting for youth ages 10-13. Watershed Camp is centered around the discovery of the local Orange River watershed which includes miles of fresh water, marsh, and forest teeming with wildlife – the perfect setting to explore, get inspired, learn, and have lots of fun! This program is FREE, but there are limited spots and advance registration is required. Registration for the lottery opens April 1st and participants will be notified after June 15th if they have been selected. More information and to register. 

2026 PAST EVENTS

Late for Lunch River Race

Saturday, April 25th – Pleasant River Fish & Game clubhouse, 1597 Tibbettstown Rd., Columbia

Attention paddlers of canoes, kayaks, and random flotsam! Before heading over to the Downeast Salmon Federation’s April 25 Smelt Fry, be sure to sign up for the Late to Lunch River Race, hosted by our friends at the Pleasant River Fish & Game Conservation Association, happening that morning. More information.