In the sunflower-studded state of Kansas, a team of adventurous children spent their days not on the prairie, but on the water. They were the Kansas Kanoe Kidz, a brave band of little paddlers who swapped cowboy boots for canoe paddles. Instead of riding wild stallions, they rode wild waves in their colorful canoes. The flat farmland turned into a vast blue ocean in the eyes of these imaginative kids. Leading the Kidz was an imaginary friend named Captain Cornstalk. Tall as a corn stalk and as powerful as a tornado, Cornstalk was a former scarecrow who came to life when thunder clapped and lightning struck his straw-filled body. With his corn husk hair, button eyes, and a smile sewn from sunflower seeds, he would spin wild tales of sea monsters and treasure chests hidden beneath the Kansas rivers. Captain Cornstalk would stand at the helm of the lead canoe, his straw hand gripping the paddle, and his button eyes scanning the horizon for adventure. The Kansas Kanoe Kidz would follow him, their laughter echoing across the water as they splashed and playfully shoved each other's canoes. They learned to ride the currents, race the wind, and always, always keep an eye out for Captain Cornstalk’s imaginary sea monsters. Rain or shine, summer or winter, the Kansas Kanoe Kidz and their corn-stalk captain were a familiar sight on the Kansas waterways. Every splash, every paddle stroke was an act of defiance against boredom and a toast to the joys of childhood adventures. They were the paddling pioneers of the prairies, proving that even in the heartland of America, you could still find a little bit of the high seas.

Read more

best boating-canoeing programs in Arkansas City, KS

Promoted
company logo

At Valhallan Naperville, your child’s love for gaming becomes something bigger than just play — it becomes a path for growth and connection. We turn that passion into purpose, helping kids build confidence, teamwork, and real-world skills while doing what they love most. Our experienced coaches lead in-person sessions that blend skill-building with life lessons. Through guided practice, strategy discussions, and collaboration, players learn how to communicate, lead, and grow — both in and out of the game. More than anything, Valhallan Naperville is a community. A place where young gamers belong, make friends, and challenge themselves to reach new levels — not just as players, but as people. Here, every child has a chance to shine and become a true legend in their own way.

Naperville, IL 60540
a group of people digging in the dirt
company logo

Camp Alexander is a great place to enjoy nature and get some exercise. Located in Lyon County, east of Emporia, Kansas, the 90-acre camp is filled with woods, ponds, and rolling meadows. It offers nearly five miles of challenging hiking and biking trails, a nine-hole disc golf course, and a Fitness Trail for a great whole-body workout. Plus, there is the newly added Flow Trail, a quarter-mile of mountain bike thrills. During the summer months, Camp Alexander is bustling with activity as children and teens explore their creative side and experience the wonders of nature. Camp Alexander provides kids of Lyon County with an experience like no other in the area. Join us for one week or the whole summer!

Emporia, KS 66801
a group of people playing on a wooden structure
company logo

At AGBC, our mission is to provide the ultimate spiritual retreat for campers. We strive to create an environment free of worldly distractions and filled with godly preaching, people, and activities. Each day begins with “God & I Time” to set a spiritual tone for the day, followed by morning sessions, activities, one-on-one camper and counselor time, evening services, and cabin devotions. Not only will campers be challenged spiritually, but they’ll also have a blast with our wide range of activities. We invite your family to join us this summer for a unique and life-changing experience. At AGBC, we recognize the importance of providing a safe and faith-filled atmosphere for campers to grow. We fill each day with spiritual nourishment, including “God & I Time”, morning sessions, activities, one-on-one camper and counselor time, evening services, and cabin devotions. But that’s just the beginning! Our campers also have the opportunity to have fun and make lasting memories enjoying all the exciting activities we have to offer. We hope you’ll come and see what AGBC is all about this summer!

Ottawa, KS 66067
company logo

At Kansas Bible Camp, children and teens get to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with friends and mentors in an exciting, safe, and spiritually-enriching environment. The camp seeks to help young people grow closer to God and understand the truth of His Word. Through its activities, the camp creates an atmosphere of discovery and exploration that allows children to explore their faith and build relationships with others. At Kansas Bible Camp, young people have the opportunity to explore the teachings and claims of the Lord Jesus Christ. Daily Scripture lessons and messages encourage campers to trust in Him and commit their lives to Him as Lord. In addition to chapel services, Scripture memory, and group devotions, the camp features a number of activities such as swimming, canoeing, trampolines, crafts, hiking, and nature classes. The camp creates an atmosphere of discovery and exploration that allows children to explore their faith and build relationships with others. Campers can also make lasting memories with friends and mentors in a safe and spiritually-enriching environment. Kansas Bible Camp is committed to helping young people grow closer to God and understand the truth of His Word.

Hutchinson, KS 67502