Learn to paddle at Village Creek State Park

David Martin paddles along the Cooks Lake to Scatterman paddling trail on the Neches River Tuesday afternoon during a tour led by Big Thicket Outfitters. Photo taken on Tuesday, 08/27/19. Ryan Welch/The Enterprise
David Martin paddles along the Cooks Lake to Scatterman paddling trail on the Neches River Tuesday afternoon during a tour led by Big Thicket Outfitters. Photo taken on Tuesday, 08/27/19. Ryan Welch/The EnterpriseRyan Welch, Beaumont Enterprise / The Enterprise

A local state park is offering a paddling event for beginners.

Village Creek Sate Park is holding a Paddling for Beginners event at 9 a.m. Friday for those wanting to kayak, but don’t know how to or lack access to a vessel.

Ranger Alex will meet registered participants near the boat launch site and will review paddling basics before taking the group on an exploratory journey through Village Creek.

The park will provide free kayaks and life jackets at no cost, although the standard park entry fee of $4 per person for those 13 and over still applies.

Related: Beaumont's top paddling trails

Space is limited and advance registration is required to reserve your spot. Call 409-755-7322 to register.

The event is open to all ages, though minors must be accompanied by an adult. Those 12 and younger will not be allowed to use a single seat kayak, and only one person will be allowed in a single kayak.

Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are recommended for the two-hour paddling trip. Standard rental fees will apply for those who wish to continue paddling after the event.

The program may be cancelled or rescheduled due to weather and/or creek conditions, with updates posted on the park’s Facebook page leading up to the event.

kbrent@beaumontenterprise.com

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