River of God Kayak Kamp: Day 1

Today we began the first day of Kayak Kamp with 9 young people along with leaders Eric White and Alisa Englehard. This year we have Al'lena, Joseph, Shyear, Tayshawn and Dominick back from last year along with Naomi, Victoria, Justice and Elijah. After our devotions on Genesis 1 and God's creation of the heavens and earth....and waters we had some basic classroom kayak training. Then we headed up to Monksville Reservoir. Once there they all learned how to adjust their life vest, put together a paddle, unstrap and unload the kayaks, carry them together, adjust their seat and foot pegs. Then we practiced some proper paddling techniques and got everyone comfortable floating in their life vest. After lunch we paddled out thought the lost forest to where the Wanaque River flows into the Reservoir.    

Here we are at the Long Pond Iron Works. This iron furnace functioned over 100 years ago to melt the iron out of the oar rock. The waterwheels were turned with water from the river and powered bellows that kept the furnaces hot.

 We had a great day and everyone did terrific  Here's a group shot outside of the hidden Pirate Cove.