Camp Rutabaga - Camp Rutabaga

We are stoked to announce the First Annual

September 11-14, 2025
Camp Manito-wish YMCA
Boulder Junction, Wisconsin

You! This is the most inclusive gathering of paddlers even held! You can paddle what you want to paddle. If you're curious, cross over and see what a canoe or kayak feels like! You can learn a lot from stepping outside of your comfort zone, but do so safety with the best kayak and canoe instructors in the country.

This is not a camp for kids, but if you wanted to pull your young people from school, we'd gladly take them, if they're in High School. As Mark Twain said, "Don't let school interfere with your education." For more information, email Darren.

We wanted to use a location that contains more options than we could possibly use: Vilas County! There are hundreds of lakes and rivers within 20 minutes of Camp Manito-wish YMCA. We can teach every discipline at every level, from brand new paddlers to experts who want to refresh their skills.

We have large lakes and flowages that will provide challenging conditions for sea kayaks, rivers to teach moving water skills, and picturesque ponds for taking a spin in a recreational kayak, looking for birds or other fantastic flora and fauna that delight the eye and gladen the soul.

We'll have dozens of classes, from solo canoe to sea kayak and everything in between. There will classes for beginners to experts, and tours and classes will also be available. Talks and dry land presentations, music, and community building is a big part of our mission. Come ready to make friends and paddling partners.

The early registration price of Camp Rutabaga is $420 for all three days. This includes dinners Friday and Saturday and Sunday lunch. You may purchase breakfast and lunch if you want to eat on site.

Canoe and kayak rentals are available for rental, or you can bring your boat or boats.

Housing is not included, but the Lodging link will provide resources for camping or hotels close to Camp Rutabaga. There is bunkhouse housing available on site; contact us for more details.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!