About Us
Inspiring community & conservation with every paddle!
Welcome to SUP Frederick, where our community thrives on the love for paddleboarding, kayaking, and the incredible waterways of Frederick, Maryland. We’re more than just a group of outdoor enthusiasts, we’re passionate stewards of the environment, working together to protect and celebrate the natural beauty of our local rivers, lakes, and waterways.
Our mission is simple: to connect, inspire, and create a sustainable future for our waterways through recreation, community, advocacy, and education. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just starting out, we’re here to share adventures, stories, photography, and a common goal of preserving the vibrant ecosystems that make our adventures possible.
What We Do:
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Explore & Appreciate: Our adventures take us across Frederick’s diverse and breathtaking waterways, from the Potomac and Monocacy Rivers to Greenbrier Lake, Cunningham Falls, and beyond. Each journey offers its own unique blend of scenic beauty and thrilling challenges, all while connecting us to the heart of Maryland’s natural landscape.
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Advocate for Clean Water: We believe in the power of recreation to raise awareness about environmental issues. Through group activities, volunteer efforts, and partnerships, we’re making a tangible difference in preserving the health of our local ecosystems.
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Build a Strong Community: SUP Frederick is more than just a club, it’s a growing network of like-minded individuals who share a love for adventure and a commitment to environmental stewardship. We come together to support each other, learn, and have fun while making a positive impact.
Why Join Us?
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Engage with a Community: Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced paddler, you’ll find a welcoming group of people ready to share knowledge and adventures. We host regular meetups, events, and training sessions to help you grow and enjoy your paddling journey.
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Make a Difference: By joining SUP Frederick, you’re not just enjoying the outdoors, you’re contributing to the preservation of the very waterways that make these activities possible. Our group advocates for clean water, vibrant ecosystems, and the preservation of our natural treasures for future generations.
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Have Fun & Stay Active: Paddleboarding and kayaking are not only great ways to stay active and healthy, but they also provide a unique opportunity to explore and connect with nature in a way few other sports can.
Get Involved:
There’s always something happening in the SUP Frederick community, from paddleboarding excursions to environmental clean-ups and social meetups. We encourage all members to get involved, share their passion for the outdoors, and contribute to the sustainability of our waterways.
Join the Movement:
Together, we can keep our waterways clean, beautiful, and accessible for generations to come.
Our Story
SUP Frederick was born out of a shared love for paddleboarding, camping and the incredible waterways that surround Frederick, Maryland. What started as a small group of passionate paddlers quickly grew into a vibrant community committed to enjoying and preserving the beauty of our local rivers, lakes, and streams. Through our adventures, we’ve come together not only to explore but to advocate for clean, healthy waterways. At SUP Frederick, we believe in the power of recreation to bring people together and make a difference for future generations. Join us as we continue to grow, connect, and protect the places we love.
Our Local Waterways
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About the Founder –
Erica Carpenter
Hi, I’m Erica, the heart (and paddle) behind SUP Frederick.
What started as a love for exploring the Potomac and local waterways quickly grew into a mission—to connect people with nature, foster a thriving paddleboarding community, and protect the waters we love.
From early-morning solo paddles to group adventures that turn strangers into friends, I’ve seen firsthand how being on the water changes people. It’s not just a sport—it’s community, it’s adventure, it's relaxing.
SUP Frederick blends my passion for outdoor exploration, environmental stewardship, and local tourism into one big, splashy love letter to Frederick County. Whether we’re hosting long-distance paddle challenges, leading conservation cleanups, or mapping out the best side quests for a perfect daycation, my goal is to inspire you to see the river as more than water—it’s a lifestyle worth defending.
Favorite Local Paddle Spot: The Brunswick to Violette's Lock stretch of the Potomac
Next Big Goal: 45-mile paddle challenge (yes, all in one day... ok, ok maybe we camp along the way!)
Fun Fact: Fun Fact: My love for photography often sends me deep into secluded areas, chasing the perfect shot of wildlife. The only way to get there without disturbing nature? Silently gliding in on my paddleboard, letting me capture some of the most breathtaking, untouched moments the river has to offer... and I highly recommend you give it a try!
Paddle Hard. Explore Far. Leave No Trace.