Top-Rated Whitewater Instruction in Ontario
"Friendly, knowledgeable staff made sure we were properly outfitted before setting out on the beautiful Madawaska River for an afternoon of paddling. Campground area nestled under large red pine trees was very clean and all amenities clearly marked. A great experience!"
– Polly Y., Google
"Had an excellent 2 day trip with Paddler Coop. Our guide was Trevor. He was knowledgeable, patient and very funny. I would recommend them and would go on a trip with them again."
– Raymond K., Google
"Went for 2 days. First day spent locally in rapids out front and 2nd day we did a trip down lower Madawaska. Adrien and Ben are 2 very highly knowledgeable white water instructors. Paddlers Coop is a first class outfitter. All we talked about on drive home was when we can arrange to go back. Can't wait."
– Jeff T., Google
"We have been going here for years, 6 I think. It's a great place, especially their kids programs. They won't just teach your kids to paddle the will give them a love for the water and nature in general that will last for years."
– Kevin D., Google
"After many years of canoeing we joined a Paddlers Coop lesson on introductory whitewater canoeing- it was fantastic and I highly recommend it."
– Christine Beard, Google
"2 day introductory course on tandem whitewater canoeing. The instructors, Mya and Malcolm were awesome. They taught basic paddle skills in a calm bay, then brought the class to base of the Rapids tp practice the skils in the swift flowing water, then a stronger flow and then travel down a class II rapids. Day two saw more practice and more trips down the rapids. Their safety procedures were spot on including getting those of us who wound up in the water safely to shore reunited with our canoes. Reasonably priced, awesome experience."
– Timothy Gavin, Google
"I had such a great time at Paddler Co-op. I completed a custom training course for work, and had a blast. The information about canoes, equipment, safety, and transport was helpful and easy to understand. The site is wonderful, and we saw lots of wildlife on the river. Our instructor, Ryan, gave lots of great tips and had awesome communication. Definitely thinking about trying the two-day whitewater training course on my personal time!"
– Amy Strizic, GoogleJoin us for Fall Palmer River Fest on September 18-20, 2026! Celebrate on the Madawaska River with a weekend of whitewater clinics, camping, live music, and vendors – all in support of youth paddling programs and Paddler Co-op’s riverside home.
A Paddler Co-op annual membership is one of the best ways you can invest in your paddling skills.
Choose Your Adventure!
Our Community Helped Save Our Home.
In 2024, Paddler Co-op faced one of the biggest challenges in our history when the property we call home was put up for sale.
Rather than watch this special place disappear, our community came together. Through the generosity of hundreds of members, volunteers, alumni, and sponsors, we raised more than $300,000 in just four months to help secure the property and preserve the future of the Co-op.
This incredible achievement is a testament to the strength of our community and the belief that paddling, connection, and river education should remain accessible for generations to come.
While we’ve secured our home, the journey isn’t over. We continue to raise funds to help cover mortgage payments and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Co-op for future generations.
700+ donors. $300,000+ raised. One community. One home.
Connect. Adventure. Nature.
Paddler Co-op is a nonprofit, member-owned organization dedicated to building a stronger, more inclusive paddling community in Ontario.
We offer high-quality whitewater instruction and courses, certifications, youth paddling camps, group programs, guided river trips, and equipment rentals — all at affordable rates tailored to your goals and schedule.
Whether you’re new to paddling or want to advance your whitewater skills, our experienced instructors will help you paddle safely and confidently.
At Paddler Co-op, we believe paddling should be accessible to everyone. We emphasize inclusivity, sustainability, and a “people first” approach. We proudly offer some of the most affordable youth whitewater programs in Ontario, plus family and group discounts to make getting on the river even easier.
Looking to stay overnight? Our riverside campground is open to the public. Book online or by phone to complete your paddling getaway.
Membership is required to participate in all programs and courses. A membership is only $16.50 and helps support insurance costs and community initiatives.
Join a group whitewater course, browse dates on our calendar tab above, or request a custom course by emailing [email protected] or calling 613-758-2772.
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