Weekend event offers stand-up paddling, yoga, racing, and wellness for all ages July 25-27
Grab your paddle, stretch out your shoulders, and get ready to make a splash—because Lake Natoma is turning into the ultimate playground for paddlers of all ages and skill levels. The PaddleSplash Festival returns July 25 through 27, transforming Lake Natoma and the Nimbus Flat State Recreation Area into a high-energy celebration of water sports, fitness, and outdoor fun right here in Folsom’s backyard for the 11th year.
The three-day festival blends competitive stand-up paddleboard racing, beginner clinics, youth activities, and yoga on the water for a full weekend of lake-loving adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned racer chasing miles or just looking to try something new with the family, PaddleSplash offers something for everyone.
Competitive racing highlights include Saturday’s 5-mile course and kids’ long course, plus the popular 200-meter sprint. Sunday will bring the 8-mile challenge, a 2-mile race, a youth sprint, and a four-person team relay. For newcomers, the First-Timer’s Race on Sunday at 11 a.m. includes a pre-event clinic and is perfect for those getting started in the sport.
Beyond racing, participants can join SUP Yoga sessions with Full Circle Yoga, take part in beginner paddling clinics, attend a kayaking 101 seminar, or try out outrigger canoeing and sea kayak rescue techniques. Other weekend features include a Friday poker paddle, free daily life jacket giveaways, and a beachside cleanup effort to close the festival on Sunday afternoon.
Lake Natoma’s calm surface and protected setting make it one of the most beginner-friendly paddling venues in the state. With a 5 mph speed limit and no current, it provides ideal conditions for both elite racers and first-time participants. The festival also offers a virtual division for those who want to take part from afar and still receive official PaddleSplash gear in the mail.
Registration is now open online, with events ranging from $27.50 to $64.60. A $10 bundle discount is available for participants entering both Saturday and Sunday races. Space is limited for SUP Yoga and clinics, so early sign-ups are encouraged. The final day to register online is Wednesday, July 23, by 11:59 p.m.
Visitors traveling from outside the area can take advantage of special group hotel rates at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Rancho Cordova, located just four miles from the venue. Room blocks include studio suites with king or two-queen layouts, available until July 14 or until sold out.
Parking at Nimbus Flat requires a $12 state park fee unless attendees hold a valid California State Parks pass. Early arrival is recommended due to limited capacity.
For more information or to register, visit paddlesignup.com. Direct inquiries can be sent to Race Director Shelly Alves at shelly@norcalsup.com or by calling 916-622-0359.
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