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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    National Safe Boating Week

    National Safe Boating Week reminds all boaters to brush up on boating safety skills and prepare for the boating season. This observance week is the annual kick-off of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages boaters to make the most of their boating adventure by being responsible.

    Close-up of a man wearing a life jacket while kayaking on the Conestoga River with the "Wear It" logo over top of the photo.

    May 16-22, 2026

    Check out our list of boating events held all across Pennsylvania.
     

    Saturday, May 16, 2026

    Introduction to Kayak Birdwatching
    Where: Gifford Pinchot State Park, 2200 Rosstown Rd, Lewisberry, PA 17339
    When:  9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
    Register for this event

    Basic Boating Course
    Where:  Smitt's Marina, 119 River Avenue, Belle Vernon, PA 15012
    When: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
    Register for this event

     

    Sunday, May 17, 2026

    Basic Boating Course
    Where: Conewago Rod & Gun Club, 1483 Turnpike Rd, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
    When: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    Register for this event
     

    Tuesday, May 19, 2026

    Kayaking Basics (Virtual)
    Where: Virtual (Online)
    When: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
    Register for this event
     

    Wednesday, May 20, 2026

    Kayak Fishing Basics
    Where: Bald Eagle State Park, 149 Main Park Rd, Howard, PA 16841
    When: 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
    Register for this event
     

    Thursday, May 21, 2026

    Paddling Safely (Virtual)
    Where: Virtual (Online)
    When: 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
    Register for this event


    Friday, May 22, 2026

    Kayak Fishing
    Where: Whipple Dam State Park
    When: 6:00 p.m. tp 8:00 p.m.
    Register for this event

    Various types of life jackets laid out on grass: Throwable, powerboating life jacket, standard life jacket, youth life jacket and two inflatable life jackets

    Boating Safety

    Safety is the most important consideration in any boating activity. Knowing the water and what to expect on the water, and having and using the right equipment is the best start for success on the water. ​​

    Learn more about Boating Safety