2026 Summer Camps in Chicago

Youth Learn-to-Row Camps

Co-ed Summer Camps at Lincoln Park, Lathrop, and Eleanor Boathouses

Most of our championship-winning high school athletes started right here in our summer camp. It’s more than just a week on the water; it’s the foundation for leadership, discipline, and competitive excellence.

Lincoln Park Boat Club is thrilled to offer numerous Learn-to-Row camps this summer for rising 6th graders through 12th graders. This is the perfect opportunity to try a new and exciting sport before the official season kicks off in the Fall. Our five-day Learn-to-Row camps are designed for total beginners. You’ll master the basics of the rowing stroke, learn essential on-water and off-water training, and—most importantly—experience the power of working together as a team.

What to Expect

  • On-Water Instruction: Learn to handle a shell and row in sync with others.

  • Basic Training: Introduction to rowing technique and fitness.

  • Teamwork: Build confidence and leadership skills in a supportive environment.

  • Accessibility: No experience is necessary!

Locations & Neighborhoods Served

  • Lincoln Park Boathouse: Serving Lincoln Park, Old Town, Lakeview, Gold Coast, Streeterville, River North, and Uptown

  • Lathrop Boathouse: Serving Roscoe Village, Bucktown, Logan Square, Lakeview, North Center, St. Ben’s, and Ravenswood, Irving Park and Old Irving Park

  • Eleanor Boathouse (Park 571): Serving Bridgeport, Pilsen, McKinley Park, Chinatown, South Loop, Armour Square, and Bronzeville, Hyde Park, and the West Loop

Choose Your Location & Time

We offer three convenient locations across Chicago to fit your family's schedule.

1. Lathrop Boathouse (North Side)

2. Lincoln Park Boathouse (Mid-City)

3. Eleanor Boathouse at Park 571 (South Side)

Financial Assistance

The Lincoln Park Boat Club is committed to making rowing accessible to everyone in our community. Full and partial financial assistance is available via application.

Apply for Financial Assistance Here

Parent FAQ

Where exactly are the summer camps held?

To ensure rowing is accessible to families throughout Chicago, we operate out of three premier facilities across the city:

  • Lincoln Park Boathouse: Our historic home in the heart of Lincoln Park.

  • Lathrop Boathouse: Located on the North Branch of the Chicago River, this is our newest location.

  • Eleanor Boathouse at Park 571: Our world-class facility in Bridgeport, serving the South Side.

What makes LPBC different from other Chicago rowing programs?

Founded in 1910, LPBC is Chicago’s oldest and most established rowing organization. We aren’t just a sports club; we are a community focused on developing the "whole athlete." While we strive for competitive excellence, our primary goal is to foster lifelong habits of discipline, teamwork, and resilience in a supportive, co-ed environment.

Does my child need to be a "natural athlete" to succeed?

Not at all. One of the best things about rowing is that it rewards effort and consistency over "raw talent." We focus on bringing out the best in every kid by teaching them the mechanics of the stroke and the importance of pulling for their teammates. Whether they want to win championships or just stay active, they will find a positive environment here.

Is rowing a safe sport for middle and high schoolers?

Safety is our absolute priority. All campers are required to pass a basic swim test, and our USRowing-certified coaches supervise every session from safety launches. Rowing is a low-impact sport that builds incredible core strength and cardiovascular fitness without the high risk of concussions or joint injuries found in many other youth sports.

Ready to Register?

  1. Click the following link to open a new tab and create a RegattaCentral account

  2. Once your account is created, click on the “Summer Camps” button below to expand the menu

  3. Add the boathouse location of your choice to the cart and select “Checkout”

  4. Select the week(s) for attending and complete the registration form

Questions? Reach out to coaches@lpboatclub.org for more information!