About The Houston Kayaking Meetup

Introduction: This is a shared hobby among people who like to kayak. We are not a professional outfitter. We all participate in the enjoyment and the work; rather than looking to a particular individual or company to provide a guaranteed, professional level of service. We all contribute to planning, and individual input is the driving force of this group. You'll get more out of it than what you put into it, as everybody contributes.

Who we are: Our group comprises singles, couples, and families. We're generally child-friendly and dog-friendly, depending on the venue, which is discussed in advance. Basically, if you bring them, you must be responsible for them, and keep them safe and under control at all times. Other than those general guidelines, we have no rules beyond common sense and common courtesy.

Participation: This is intended to be an active group, not just a hole in cyberspace. We ask everybody to participate somehow, at least once every 90 days. Just logging in to the message board is enough to keep your account active. If members do nothing, not even visit the website, Meet up automatically flags that member as "Inactive", and the member is dropped from the group. The door is always open to re-join, though, if one's availability and interests change.

What we do: We usually kayak anytime from Friday evenings through Sunday afternoons; although anyone is welcome to suggest a trip around a different work/school schedule. We also have social get-togethers/ planning meetings in advance of trips, and these are open to all members whether or not you're going on a particular trip. There may be occasional longer trips, such as a trip to the Hill Country or maybe another State. There are also non-camping opportunities, such as picnic lunches and classes. Visit the calendar to see more.

How we do it: Most of us have our own boats and some are looking to try the sport out, so will rent or borrow a boat. Anyone, regardless of skill level, is free to propose an idea for an outing. Regarding trip planning in general, the most efficient and collaborative way to plan is via the Meet up message board. Using the message board, anyone can ask questions, make suggestions, and contact other members directly via email.

Where we do it: We're not "picky"! Anywhere and everywhere (where there's water) is fair game! Though, we are usually within a three-hour drive of Houston. Your suggestions are welcome.

Support: Everyone is encouraged to suggest trips; and anyone can organize a trip. Even if an organizer or assistant organizer is not going on a particular trip, we'll be glad to post calendar events with enabled RSVP's and all the rest of the website features, if the trip organizer has done basic research and will follow through. We'll even lend a helping hand, if needed.