Start your paddleboarding journey in Central Oregon with our Beginner SUP Class!

Tumalo Creek's Beginner Stand Up Paddleboarding (BSUP) Class offers a fantastic introduction for aspiring paddleboarders. Held on the Deschutes River in the Old Mill District, this class is designed to help you build confidence while exploring Central Oregon's scenic waterways.

In this beginner SUP course, you'll learn essential paddle strokes, refine maneuvering skills, improve balance, and practice key safety techniques—all with expert guidance from our experienced Tumalo Creek instructors.

Ideal for true beginners or as a refresher for occasional paddlers, this class is open to participants aged 15 and older. Contact us at 541-317-9407 for more details or to discuss special accommodations.

Equipment List

Tumalo Creek Provides

  • Paddleboard
  • Paddle
  • PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
  • Instruction

Participant Provides

  • River sandals, though bare feet are encouraged
  • Sunglasses with Croakies or Chums
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Sun hat, rain hat or fleece hat
  • Quick drying top and bottom
  • Towel and change of clothes in case you fall in

Gear required for this trip is available for purchase at our shop.

Meeting Location

805 SW Industrial Way, Suite 6 Bend OR 97702

+ CANCELLATION POLICY

Tumalo Creek Deposits and Cancellation Policies:

One Day Lessons/Tours: 48 hours prior to departure date required for cancellations or date changes. No Shows, cancellations or date changes for any reason inside the 48 hour period will be subject to forfeiture of all fees.

Tumalo Creek (TC) Initiated Cancellation Disclaimer: Applies to all one day lessons, trips, tours, multi-day trips, camps and special events. TC reserves the right to cancel, postpone or reschedule one day lessons, trips, tours, multi-day trips, camps and special events within 24 hours of the scheduled date. Circumstances include but are not limited to low enrollment, weather (ex. thunderstorms/lightning), natural disasters (ex. forest fires) and events or circumstances beyond TC’s control.

+ OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

If you're looking for more excitement, consider attending one of our whitewater standup paddleboard classes on the Deschutes River. We also offer paddleboard rentals in addition new equipment for those ready to take the plunge.

+ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I bring my own gear?

If you have your own gear and or boat you are more than welcome to bring your gear to the classes. It is always good to practice in the same equipment you will use after the class.

Can kids come to these lessons?

We have a strict age requirement of 15 for standard lessons. If you have a child younger than 15 please check out our offerings for Tumalo Kids or email [email protected] to get information on private classes.

Do I have to get on the water?

If you are taking a class we do require you to come out on the water and practice the techniques we are covering. Though we start on land most of our instruction is on the water so students can try the new skill in real time.

Do I have to participate in the self rescue?

It is entirely optional but highly recommended that you try your hand at a self rescue during class. Practice makes perfect and what better way to practice than by having a certified instructor right there with you.

Will I fall in?

It is entirely possible that you will fall in the water. We will always suit you up with all of the necessary safety gear for the discipline you are participating in, and our certified instructors are well versed in water rescues. But still, be prepared to swim.