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Rookie Rendezvous Plus

About this event

The Rookie Rendezvous is a long standing Pure Water Paddlers tradition of camping and paddling the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior. In keeping with tradition there will be an option for paddlers who are new to 'big water' to gain some new skills and experience and have a safe introduction to sea kayaking on one of the gems of the kayaking world. Events will include a Saturday crossing to Sand Island and the sea caves there (approximately a 8 -10 mile day with plenty of breaks) as well as a visit to the sea caves of Meyer's Beach on Sunday or possibly Roman's Point. (as always the Lake is the boss and safety is a number one consideration so plans can change) This year, in addition to the long boat activities we will also be including some recreational opportunities paddling the protected waters of Barks Bay Slough as well as shore paddling Lake Superior (weather permitting) and exploring tributary waterways.

Each group will have leaders helping with logistics and in the case of the sea kayaking contingent, leaders will also provide safety training prior to the event. Safety training opportunities will be posted on the calendar going forward. Please note that as with any group activity patience is required when loading up, launching, and while paddling. There is always a range of preparedness, organization, paddling speed, etc. For safety purposes we launch and paddle as a group.

We will be shore camping at Little Sand Bay campground. We have reserved sites 46,47,48 (group site) which will accommodate about 15 tents (there is some flexibility depending on the size of tents and how efficiently we use our space). The $40 registration fee includes camping for 3 nights. There is also RV camping available but sites go fast and participants wishing to RV camp are responsible for booking their own accommodations.

Participant limit is set to 17. There will also be a waiting list if there are any interested parties beyond the first 17 registrants. Once we have more details (some people will be RV camping and may have space for a tent on their RV site and or some members may be doubling up in tents) and find we can accommodate more people we can expand the number to include those on the wait list on a first come first served basis.

This is always a fun weekend and there are many other things to do besides paddle. The campground is a few steps from the beach, Herbster and Cornucopia are nearby and provide long sandy beaches to stroll or swim (if you don't mind cool water). There is also hiking (Lost Creek, Meyers Beach) and Bayfield is approximately 20 miles from Little Sand. In the past people have even attended concerts at the Big Top Chautauqua (check the schedule and ticket availability). The stargazing is pretty spectacular as well and every evening campers migrate to the harbor to watch the sun set over Sand Island.

Date and Time

Thursday, July 9, 2026, 4:00 PM until Sunday, July 12, 2026, 10:00 AM

Location

Little Sand Bay
https://goo.gl/maps/OxFwf
34155 WI-13
Bayfield, WI 54814
USA
(715) 779-5233

Registration Info

Registration has closed - Event is past

Payment In Full In Advance Only

All participants required to provide their own tent, camp gear,food and beverages, and paddling gear unless specific arrangements have been made to borrow required equipment prior to the event. (in the past we have been able to help outfit people interested in attending that may not have had all the required equipment. It never hurts to inquire.)

Recreational paddlers have the same requirements as any Wednesday social paddle; A pfd to be worn at at all times on the water, a paddle, and of course a kayak. In addition it is strongly recommended you also carry a dry bag for snacks, a towel, a change of dry clothes, sunscreen, etc. (many members have dry bags they could loan if needed)

Sea Kayak contingent required to have prerequisite safety training and be able to demonstrate a satisfactory wet exit, at least one re-entry technique (such as a 'heel-hook), and be able to assist in at least one type of 'swimmer recovery' (such as a 'T' rescue). Several opportunities to receive training will be scheduled prior to the event.

Required equipment: sea kayak (minimum 14 ft.); wet suit or dry suit; PFD (must be worn whenever we are on the water); spray skirt; bilge pump; paddle; paddle float. A change of dry clothes (in case you take an unexpected swim); a dry bag to keep them in.