The Camp Winding Gap Waterfront Program is a very diverse program ranging from basic swim instruction in-camp to 2-day canoeing excursions on nearby lakes. On-site we teach swimming and beginning canoeing on our small pond. There is also a (very popular) waterslide for free swim.

Waterfront instructors generally teach one-two canoeing/kayaking and two-three swimming classes per day and lifeguard Free Swim each day. Instructors are rotated through the waterfront programs as well as secondary programs daily.   Once canoers have mastered the basics in-camp we move to larger nearby lakes and rivers for 1-, 2-, and 3-day trips. There is NO whitewater canoeing. We do offer campers optional whitewater rafting trips down the Nantahala, French Broad, and Chatooga Rivers for an additional fee.

Waterfront personnel staff the rafts for the Nantahala Trip, while the Chatooga & French Broad Trips are staffed by the Nantahala Outdoor Center (we provide transportation). Swim instruction is divided into 3 groups: Beginners, Advanced beginners/intermediate, and Advanced intermediate/advanced. Campers are evaluated and divided into ability groups on the day they arrive. Most campers may choose not to participate in the swim instruction in-camp during their stay, but MUST still be evaluated on opening day to determine their swimming ability.

Lifeguards will accompany all out-of-camp trips that involve any level of swimming or water activity.  Staff from other program areas will often assist on the waterfront as lookouts during classes and free swims.

Waterfront instructors and assistant instructors are required to have lesson plans prepared and followed for all classes, including and especially for rainy days.