Kayaking Environmental
Learning Experience
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Program Overview
This hands-on outdoor environmental learning experience introduces participants to kayaking safety, water awareness, environmental stewardship, and the importance of protecting South Carolina’s natural ecosystems. Through guided activities and community participation, students and families explore local waterways while learning about wetland habitats, native wildlife, conservation practices, and responsible outdoor recreation.
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Participants are encouraged to build confidence, teamwork, and environmental responsibility while connecting with nature in a safe and educational setting. This experience also promotes healthy outdoor lifestyles and strengthens community engagement through bilingual environmental education and hands-on learning opportunities.
Program Objectives
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"Introduce participants to basic kayaking skills and safety practices"
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"Promote environmental awareness and outdoor recreation"
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"Encourage respect and protection for local waterways and wildlife"
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"Strengthen teamwork, confidence, and community engagement through outdoor learning experiences"
About Santee State Park
Santee State Park is located along the shores of beautiful Lake Marion, the largest lake in South Carolina. Opened in 1949, the park is part of the South Carolina State Park system and protects important freshwater ecosystems, wetlands, forests, and wildlife habitats that support a rich diversity of native species.
During this educational experience, participants learned about the environmental importance of Lake Marion and its surrounding ecosystems, including wetlands, migratory birds, freshwater habitats, and local wildlife conservation. The park serves as an outdoor classroom where families and students can connect with nature through environmental exploration and responsible outdoor recreation.
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Wildlife & Ecosystems
Participants had the opportunity to learn about species that inhabit the area, including:
• Bald Eagles
• Osprey
• Herons and Egrets
• Freshwater turtles
• White-tailed deer
• Migratory birds and freshwater fish species
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Educational Experience & Kayaking Instruction
During the program, participants received hands-on kayaking instruction and water safety education from South Carolina State Park Rangers Jim, Terry, and Rachael, along with Dia, Director of Education. Participants learned how to properly use kayaks, paddles, and life jackets before entering the water.
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Students and volunteers practiced kayaking techniques for nearly one hour while learning how to safely navigate the water without disturbing wildlife or damaging sensitive ecosystems. The instructional team also introduced participants to the principles of Leave No Trace, encouraging responsible outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship while exploring South Carolina’s natural waterways.
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Educational Collaboration & Community Support
Special thanks to the South Carolina State Parks educational team and to Alix A. Pedraza, Director of Community Engagement at the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), for supporting environmental education and community engagement opportunities for our participants and volunteers.
What Participants Learned
• Basic kayaking safety and equipment use
• Water awareness and outdoor preparedness
• Environmental stewardship and Leave No Trace principles
• Importance of protecting rivers, lakes, wetlands, and wildlife habitats
• Teamwork and communication during outdoor activities
Community Impact
This experience provided families and youth with an opportunity to connect with nature, participate in healthy outdoor recreation, and strengthen environmental responsibility through educational and community-based learning.
Educational Support & Collaboration
This experience was made possible thanks to the support of community partners, instructors, volunteers, and environmental educators who helped create a safe and meaningful learning environment for all participants.
