Making a splash: Nathan Benderson Park summer camps teach kids to love the water

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Suncoast View hit the water at Nathan Benderson Park’s Weekly Summer Adventure Camp, where kids ages 6-13 are paddling, fishing and building confidence in and around the water. And yes, our reporter Alyssa Perry got to hit the water too — in a canoe with program manager Mason Johnson.

The camps offer kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, archery, fishing and field trips. Half-day and full-day options are available, with early drop-off and late pickup available throughout the week. Spots remain open in upcoming weeks.

Program manager Mason Johnson said the camps focus on water safety and confidence-building.

“Teaches water safety and creates confidence for children in and around the water,” Johnson said.

Many children start camp nervous around the water but gain confidence through guided instruction and positive reinforcement, organizers said.

All counselors are lifeguard trained, and safety is integrated into every activity, Johnson said.

For older kids, the park’s “Spirit of America” boating safety program lets children ages 10-14 earn their boating license while having fun on the water.