FLOAT YOUR BOAT
Kayak and paddle board rentals make a splash at 2 San Antonio lakes
The Expedition School is bringing paddle board and kayak rentals to two San Antonio lakes.
This spring, the fun at Elmendorf Lake and Woodlawn Lake parks is set to be a whole lot splashier. The San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department has approved a license agreement for non-motorized watercraft rentals with Austin-based The Expedition School, bringing rentable canoes, single and tandem kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards to park visitors.
The newly approved agreement also incorporates programming such as adaptive paddling, health and wellness programs, camps, and professional water safety courses. Visitors can look forward to activities catering to a wide array of abilities.
Founded in Austin in 2006, the outdoor education institution devotes itself to providing its clients the best and safest quality outdoor education experiences. With its expansion to San Antonio, The Expedition School is excited to offer the same to all Alamo City residents.
That includes providing adaptive paddles for intellectually and developmentally disabled, blind and visually impaired, and deaf populations. The specialized gear attaches to watercraft to support the paddle's weight, eliminating stress on the shoulders, back, and joints. The adaptation allows people with limited strength or endurance to enjoy previously inaccessible water sports.
"We are thrilled to see people of all abilities kayaking and enjoying outdoor activities at Woodlawn Lake Park and Elmendorf Lake Park," said Homer Garcia III, Director of San Antonio Parks and Recreation, via a release.
But that's not The Expedition School's only nod to inclusivity. The two locations at Woodlawn Lake Park and Elmendorf Lake Park will also serve as outdoor schools for youth. The school's team-building events will allow groups to build camaraderie, trust, and communication skills while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the parks.
The school is also committed to environmental stewardship. Since its inception, it has picked up over 10 tons of trash and four tons of recycling in and around Austin's Lady Bird Lake. Every program The Expedition School provides is dedicated to leaving the area cleaner than it was found, ensuring that park visitors can enjoy pristine surroundings.
"The Expedition School is more than a kayak rental vendor," says Garcia. "They are community partners and environmental stewards who will provide accessible recreational opportunities and educational programming for our residents."
Though Parks and Recreation did not share a hard launch date for the rentals and programming, the action is expected to kick off this spring. Locals can keep up with developments on the Parks and Recreation website.
