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family · Monday 6 July 2026 · 10:00am 
Paddle Derg Summer Camp - Week 1
At Lough Derg · Dromineer, Co. Tipperary
At Lough Derg · Dromineer, Co. Tipperary
A week on Lough Derg in a kayak is a hard thing to beat for a 10 to 18 year old with a summer to fill. Paddle Derg’s summer camp runs five mornings on the water at Dromineer, one of the most scenic spots on the Shannon system, with qualified instruction and all gear provided. It is run in partnership with Tipperary Sports Partnership and follows Canoeing Ireland standards, so parents can drop off knowing the session is properly supervised. No prior paddling experience is needed - the camp is designed to work for complete beginners and kids who have been on the water before alike.
Each day runs from 10am to 2pm, Monday to Friday. The focus is kayaking on Lough Derg itself, which gives plenty of open water to build confidence and technique without the session feeling cramped or rushed. Instructors supply all boats, paddles, helmets and buoyancy aids, so there is nothing technical to organise in advance beyond what to pack.
Kids should come dressed for getting wet - no cotton clothing, and old runners rather than sandals. Bring sunscreen, a water bottle, a towel and a change of clothes. If your child uses an inhaler or any other medication, pack it along. There are no on-site changing facilities at the base, so factor that into the morning routine.
Places sell out quickly - the July Week 1 camp listed as sold out on Eventbrite ahead of the event date, so booking early for any remaining weeks is strongly advised. Check paddlederg.ie or Tipperary Sports Partnership for availability and pricing (€80 per participant for the week).
Dromineer sits on the western shore of Lough Derg, roughly 12km south of Nenagh on the R495. Coming from Nenagh, follow signs for Dromineer through Portroe. The village has a small harbour with car parking beside it - arrive with a few minutes to spare on the first morning to get your bearings. There is no reliable bus service to Dromineer itself, so driving is the practical option for most families.
Nenagh town is a short drive north and worth a look if you have time before or after the camp. The Norman keep at Nenagh Castle stands right in the town centre, and there are good cafes and a market on certain days. There is more to see in Nenagh and across Co. Tipperary.
Heading to Lough Derg in Nenagh? Tipperary has plenty more to see. Read the Nenagh area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.