Members Only: Full Moon Paddle

Drift into dusk and let the Mill Pond at Hamburg State Park show you its softer, silver-lit side. On May 30, 2026, beneath the rare glow of a blue moon, Ogeechee Riverkeeper invites members to join a moonlit paddle that reveals the magic of this body of water that is fed by the Little Ogeechee River. 

Guided by Ogeechee Riverkeeper staff, paddlers will enjoy a peaceful evening on the water while learning about nocturnal wildlife and the unique natural rhythms tied to full moons. Stay and camp out at Hamburg State Park with us as an overnight option. Breakfast will be served the next morning.

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or joining us for your first moonlit float, this trip promises a serene, unforgettable glimpse of the aquatic world at dark. It is an occurrence that truly lives up to the phrase “once in a blue moon.” 


Advanced registration is required. Free to ORK members but attendees should bring their own kayak, paddle and life vest. Attendees are responsible for a $10 parking fee for the day that may also be applied for an overnight stay if you choose to camp. Those interested in camping are required to make their own reservations with Hamburg State Park

Not a member yet? Join today. Not sure of your membership status? We can look it up for you.

 

Members Only – Fall Foliage Paddle

Ogeechee Riverkeeper is hosting a fall foliage paddle at George L. Smith State Park.  

This is a chance to see the pond cypress (Taxodium ascendens) trees in bright cinnamon and burnt orange. Unlike most conifers, the pond cypress is actually deciduous, which means the light, feathery leaves turn before they are dropped for the season.

The paddle will include a guided tour of the water trails on the mill pond with a chance for up-close viewing of the vibrant trees. 

Pre-registration is required. 

This is a lower/middle watershed and beginner-friendly paddle on a calm pond. For safety, participants must know how to swim. All paddlers will be required to wear a personal floatation device (PFD). When registering, please indicate if you will be bringing your own vessel, gear, and PFD. ORK will not be providing equipment. Participants without their own gear can rent from George L. Smith State Park for a fee.


This event is only available to members of Ogeechee Riverkeeper. This event is free to members, but donations are optional. A $5 parking fee per car is required. Advanced registration is required.

To become an ORK member, visit our donation page. Memberships are $50 (individual) or $75 (household) and benefits last a full year. Perks include members-only events, discounted merchandise, first chance to register for events, and more.

Not sure of your membership status? Email info@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org and we can check.

 

Upper Watershed Members Only Paddle Trip

ORK will host a members-only paddle trip at Hamburg State Park in the upper watershed of the Ogeechee River Basin. The upper watershed paddle trip is fun for most ages but participants should be able to swim. ORK encourages members to experience different parts of the watershed.

Existing and new ORK members are encouraged to attend. This paddle trip is free to members but attendees should bring their own vessels, snacks, and water. A limited number of loaner kayaks can be available with advance notice. Pre-registration is required. Walk-ups will not be able to join the event.


This event is only available to members of Ogeechee Riverkeeper. This event is free to members, but donations are optional. A $5 Georgia State Park parking fee per car is required. Advanced registration is required.

To become an ORK member, visit our donation page. Memberships are $50 (individual) or $75 (household) and benefits last a full year. Perks include members-only events, discounted merchandise, first chance to register for events, and more.

Not sure of your membership status? Email info@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org and we can check.

Members Only – George L. Smith State Park Paddle

To celebrate membership month, Ogeechee Riverkeeper is partnering with George L. Smith State Park for a paddle. This is a lower/middle watershed and beginner-friendly paddle but participants must know how to swim. Meet at 8:00 a.m. near the pavilion by the main office. Daylight donuts will be provided. 

The paddle will include two separate loops in opposite directions, stopping back at the same boat ramp to stretch legs and grab some water. The paddle will end no later than 11 a.m.

Pre-registration is required. 

Participants may bring provide their own gear and vessels, or borrow from Aldebaran Outdoors, LLC.


This event is only available to members of Ogeechee Riverkeeper. This event is free to members, but donations are optional. A $5 parking fee per car is required. Advanced registration is required.

To become an ORK member, visit our donation page. Memberships are $50 (individual) or $75 (household) and benefits last a full year. Perks include members-only events, discounted merchandise, first chance to register for events, and more.

Not sure of your membership status? Email info@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org and we can check.

 

POSTPONED – Ft. Stewart Paddle

Due to effects of TS Debby and Hurricane Helene, this event has been postponed. A new date and details will available soon. 

This is a lower watershed paddle on the Canoochee River between Ft. Stewart Landings 1b-26. The paddle is free to attend but participants *must* provide their own gear and vessels. Attendees should also bring their own lunch and water.

This paddle will be led by Ft. Stewart’s Fish and Wildlife Branch. ORK membership is not required, but encouraged.

This intermediate level paddle is not advisable for novice paddlers or those with physical conditions which may limit their ability to negotiate potential hazards such as fallen trees, swift water, portages, etc.

Pre-registration is required. Anyone showing up without pre-registering will not be able to join the event. 


Coordinates for Landings:
Landing 1B: 31.979168;  -81.377464
Landing 26: 31.980154;   -81.339197
6.1 mile trip/~ 4 hour paddle with a lunch break half way.