Tourism for Good: Kelsey’s Caravan, bridging the gap for new outdoor adventurers

In honour of World Tourism Day on September 27th, we’ll be sharing some good news stories from Cochrane Tourism Operators who have unique solutions to use tourism to impact positive change.

Kelsey’s Caravan: bridging the gap for new outdoor adventurers

If you’ve ever dreamed of drifting down a river or gliding across a mountain lake, Kelsey’s Caravan Water Adventures is a must-try. You don’t need any prior experience to enjoy these water activities, either. Kelsey’s Caravan courses, events, and adventures are designed with absolute beginners in mind. 

If you’re new to stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), river rafting, or camping, Kelsey will teach you everything you need to know to safely enjoy your outdoor adventure in the beautiful Cochrane, Alberta region.

A focus on fun, safety, and sustainability

Kelsey Baldwin is on a mission to break down barriers. She started Kelsey’s Caravan in 2018, when she realized there were limited opportunities for beginners to try new outdoor activities in a safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly way. 

“I saw that the cost for courses was a big inhibitor for a lot of folks, and I wanted to offer something that landed on a middle ground of learning, but that was also fun,” Kelsey says.

Helping people understand how to leave no trace outdoors and play responsibly in areas with wildlife and fragile ecosystems is also important to Kelsey. That’s why she incorporates environmental education into her guided water activities.

“The more that people learn how to respect the places they play in, the longer these places are going to be around,” she says. “I want all of us to be able to enjoy our beautiful environment for years to come.”

An outdoor adventure for everyone’s tastes 

Kelsey’s Caravan offers a range of outdoor adventures that vary from one-hour guided river and lake experiences to eight-hour paddleboard journeys. 

Her Women on the Water paddleboard tours have become a fan favourite. These events give women a chance to get outside together for an evening of paddleboarding or an overnight rafting and camping adventure. 

“You just have to show up with clothes and toiletries. I bring everything else,” Kelsey says. “These events are a big draw because they’re just for women. There’s a special kind of story-sharing that happens when women gather around a fire.”

Kelsey also loves creating custom experiences for people of all backgrounds and genders. She welcomes people to reach out about custom lessons, overnight group trips, and special events like birthday parties. 

Ready to explore Cochrane’s waterways while learning new skills? Check out Kelsey’s website to book your next rafting or paddleboard tour.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the natural beauty Cochrane has to offer? Download the Explore Cochrane app and discover more opportunities for environmentally responsible outdoor adventures.