Calm water and shallow shores make Nottingham Lake the best spot for a child’s first paddle. This safe oasis in the heart of Avon allows families to explore the water without the worry of currents or waves. It is where core mountain memories begin for young explorers.
Finding things to do in avon colorado with kids is easy when you head to Nottingham Lake for a day on the water. This small and safe lake is the top choice for families because the water stays calm and shallow. Stand Up Paddle Colorado offers rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, and pedal boats right on the shore. Children as young as two can join the fun in a pedal boat, while those three and older can ride on a paddle board with an adult. By age eight, kids can even try paddling their own board in this safe space.
Book your Nottingham Lake rental today to secure the best gear and time slot for your family’s water adventure. Summer dates fill quickly, and reserving ahead means your kids get straight onto the water without waiting.
Things To Do In Avon Colorado With Kids: Why Choose Nottingham Lake for Family Water Fun in Avon?
Nottingham Lake sits inside Harry A. Nottingham Park, a 48-acre community space with a sandy beach, playgrounds, and calm protected water. Unlike rivers or larger reservoirs, this lake stays flat and shallow. Making it the safest place in the Vail Valley for young children to try paddle boarding, kayaking, or pedal boats for the first time.
Planning a trip to the mountains often means looking for safe fun for the whole family. If you are searching for family-friendly things to do in Avon, Nottingham Lake should be your first stop. This 48-acre park sits in the heart of town and offers a rare mix of beauty and easy access that makes it a top pick for parents.
The park features a sandy beach where kids can play in the sun. You will also find large playgrounds and courts for ball games like volleyball. Since the lake is in the town center, you are always close to shops and food. This means less time in the car and more time having fun with your children.
Safe Water for Early Learners
Water sports can seem scary for young kids, but Nottingham Lake changes that. The lake is small and safe from big winds. Unlike the moving water of the nearby Eagle River, this lake stays calm and still. These SUP rentals in Avon let children try new things without the fear of fast currents.
Safety is the most important part of any lake day. The shallow edges of the water allow kids to get used to their boards or boats slowly. They can stand up, sit down, or splash around in a space that feels safe. This setting makes it the best spot in the area for a first time on the water. Parents can watch from the shore or join in with peace of mind.
Rivers often have rocks, logs, and fast water that can be hard to manage. A lake like this one has no current to pull a board off course. This allows children to focus on their form and balance. They can learn how to hold a paddle and move the boat without extra stress.
A Full Day of Park Features
Harry A. Nottingham Park is much more than just a place to paddle. The 48-acre space has everything a family needs for a full day of play. Kids love the large playgrounds that offer room to run and climb. The sandy beach is a favorite for those who want to build sandcastles or just relax by the water. You can even bring a ball to use on the courts.
The mountain views at the park are also a big plus. You get to enjoy the fresh air and big peaks while the kids stay busy. Many families find that the lake is a calm choice compared to other water trips in the high country. It is a spot where kids can be kids, and parents can take a breath of fresh mountain air.
What Age Can Kids Paddle Board, Kayak, or Pedal Boat at Nottingham Lake?
Children aged 2 and under can ride in a pedal boat with an adult. Kids ages 3 and up can paddle board or kayak with adult supervision. Once a child turns 8, they can paddle their own board or kayak independently. Stand Up Paddle Colorado provides life jackets for every guest and has “keiki” boards sized for young paddlers.
Choosing the right vessel depends on the age and skills of your children. Nottingham Lake is a safe place for kids because the water is shallow and calm. When looking for things to do in Avon Colorado with kids, matching the craft to your child’s age helps keep everyone safe. Here is a quick reference guide:
- Pedal Boat: All ages welcome. Children under 8 must ride with an adult. The best choice for toddlers and families with very young kids.
- Kayak (single or tandem): Ages 3 and up. Children under 8 must paddle with an adult. Tandem kayaks let a parent and child ride together.
- Paddle Board: Ages 3 and up with adult supervision. Kids under 8 ride on an adult’s board. Children 8 and older can paddle their own board.
- SUPSQUATCH (giant board): All ages. Holds multiple people at once. A fun group option for families who want to stay together.
| Vessel Type | Minimum Age | Adult Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pedal Boat | All ages (2 and under only option) | Under 8 | Toddlers, non-swimmers, relaxed rides |
| Kayak | 3 and up | Under 8 | Stability, sightseeing, family tandems |
| Paddle Board | 3 and up | Under 8 | Balance, active play, older kids |
| SUPSQUATCH | All ages | Recommended | Group family fun,拍照, group paddling |
Toddlers and Young Children (Ages 2 and Under)
Children aged 2 and under can enjoy the lake only in a pedal boat with an adult. These boats are stable and let little ones sit safely while parents do the work. Our pedal boat rentals are available exclusively at the Avon location. They offer a slow pace that is perfect for toddlers who are not ready for a board or kayak. Sitting in a wide boat lets them watch the water without the risk of tipping.
Preschoolers and Young Kids (Ages 3-7)
Once kids reach age 3, they can try all our water crafts when joined by an adult. This is the best time to try paddle boarding by having them sit on the front of your board. Kayaks are also a fun pick because they feel fast while staying very stable on the flat water of Nottingham Lake. Kids in this group must always be on a craft with a grown-up to help with steering and balance.
Independent Young Paddlers (Ages 8 and Up)
At age 8, children gain the right to paddle their own craft. They can rent their own board or kayak and lead the way across the lake. This move is a big step that builds confidence. While they can go solo, we still suggest that parents stay nearby to give tips and share the fun. We provide “keiki” boards that are sized just for small paddlers. These boards are easier to turn and carry, which makes the sport more fun for kids.
Paddle Boarding with Kids on Nottingham Lake
Nottingham Lake’s calm, wind-protected water makes it ideal for children learning to paddle board. Kids ages 3 and up can ride with an adult, while those 8 and older can try their own keiki board. Stand Up Paddle Colorado provides stable boards, life jackets, and on-site staff to ensure a safe first paddling experience.
Stand up paddle boarding is one of the top things to do in Avon Colorado with kids. Nottingham Lake is small and shielded from the wind, making it a great spot for young children to try a new sport. The water stays calm and flat. You do not have to worry about big waves when you are out with your family.
A Safe Way to Start
Kids can start their water fun at a young age. Children age three and up can ride on a board with an adult. This lets them enjoy the view while you do the work of paddling. If you are looking for SUP rentals in Avon, our team can find a large, stable board for you and a child. The lake is shallow and easy to reach from the town center. Parents love the ease of renting gear right next to the park.
Gear Made for Small Paddlers
We have special gear to make the day even better for your little ones:
- Keiki Boards: Smaller paddle boards made just for kids. Easier for small arms to steer and control.
- SUPSQUATCH: Giant paddle board that can hold several people at once. Great for group family paddling.
- Life Jackets: Included with every rental. Staff ensure each jacket fits your child properly before heading out.
- Stable Touring Boards: Wider, thicker boards that provide extra stability for parent-child rides.
Kayaking as a Family Activity on Calm Water
Kayaking on Nottingham Lake is one of the safest things to do in Avon Colorado with kids because the water is flat and protected. Families can choose tandem kayaks (parent plus child) or single kayaks for older kids ages 8 and up. Life jackets are included with every rental, and staff patrol the lake for added safety.
Kayaking on Nottingham Lake is a top choice for families. The lake is calm and protected, which makes it a safe spot for families to try water sports. Because there are no big waves or fast flows, young paddlers can focus on having fun and learning new skills. The lake is small enough that a full loop is a short and easy trip for little arms.
Safety and Age Rules
We follow clear rules to keep every child safe on the lake. Kids who are 3 years old or older can go in a kayak with an adult. Once a child is 8 years old, they can paddle their own boat. We provide life jackets for all guests, and these are included with your rental. Our staff patrols the lake to ensure every guest stays safe while they explore the water.
Kayaking Options for Families
You can choose between tandem kayaks or single boats for your trip. A tandem kayak lets a parent and child sit in the same boat. This is a great choice if you want to help your child feel more secure. In a tandem, kids can help paddle or just sit back and watch the fish swim by in the clear water. If you have older kids, they might want to try a single kayak to feel more independent. You can find all these options at our Avon location near the park beach.
Pedal Boats: The Best Choice for Toddlers and Young Children
Pedal boats are the only vessel option for children aged 2 and under at Nottingham Lake. These stable, wide boats have high sides that keep toddlers safe while parents pedal. The Avon location is the only Stand Up Paddle Colorado shop that offers pedal boat rentals. Making it a unique draw for families with very young children visiting Avon.
Families with the youngest children often find that pedal boats are the best way to get on the water. These boats are the only vessel option for children aged two and under at Nottingham Lake. Since our rentals in Avon also include pedal boats, parents can bring their toddlers along for a safe and dry ride. This exclusive feature at the Avon location makes it a top choice for families with very small kids.
The Best Option for Toddlers
Safety is the main reason why pedal boats are so popular. While older kids might want to try a paddle board, toddlers need a more stable seat. A pedal boat provides a large, flat deck that feels much like a small floating park bench. Children aged two and under must ride with an adult. The high sides of the boat help them feel secure while they watch the ducks or the clouds.
The quiet pace of a pedal boat is perfect for small children who might feel overwhelmed by faster water sports. It gives them a chance to get used to being on a lake in a calm environment. Starting them early with a slow boat ride can build a lifelong love for the outdoors. It is a gentle way to introduce kids to the water before they move on to more active sports.
Easy Fun for the Whole Family
Working a pedal boat requires no special skills. You just sit down and start pedaling like you are riding a bike. This makes it a great team activity where kids can help out if their feet reach the pedals. Even if they cannot help with the work, they can take charge of steering the boat with the small lever in the center. Giving a child a job like “Captain” makes the trip more fun and keeps them engaged with the scenery.
What Other Family Activities Are Near Nottingham Lake in Avon?
Nottingham Lake sits inside 48-acre Harry A. Nottingham Park, which offers playgrounds, a sandy beach, sports courts, and picnic areas. The Avon Recreation Center next door has an indoor pool with a water slide and lazy river. Walking Mountains Science Center provides family nature programs, and the Eagle River offers gentle family rafting trips with local guides.
Avon offers many ways to enjoy the outdoors beyond the water. You can easily spend a full day in town by mixing lake fun with park play and indoor stops. Harry A. Nottingham Park spans 48 acres and is the hub for things to do in Avon Colorado with kids. Families often start at the sandy beach before moving to the playgrounds or open fields for a picnic.
Fun at the Avon Recreation Center
If the weather turns or your kids need a break from the sun, head to the Avon Recreation Center. This building sits right next to the park and has a large indoor pool area. The main draw for families is the 140-foot water slide and a lazy river that keeps children busy for hours. There is also a shallow play area built just for younger kids.
Many people plan a full day by starting with a morning paddle and then heading to the pool in the afternoon. This mix of sun and indoor fun keeps kids happy without getting too hot. You can find more family activities in Avon and Vail to fill out your trip plans.
Explore Nature at Walking Mountains
The Walking Mountains Science Center is another top pick for families in Avon. Located just a short drive from the lake, this spot offers hands-on learning about the local woods. They lead family nature walks and programs for young kids that help them learn about the Colorado outdoors. Fun exhibits inside the center teach kids about mountain animals and plants in a way that is easy to follow.
These programs are often free or cost very little. This makes them a smart add to any family trip. Mixing active play on the lake with learning at the science center makes a great day for children of all ages.
River Rafting and Park Perks
For families who want more water fun, the Eagle River has gentle rafting trips. Local guides lead family floats that are safe for younger children. These trips show you a new side of the valley and offer a small thrill without being too scary. It is a good next step for kids who feel good on the calm water of the lake and want to try a river. You get to see the river from a safe boat with an expert guide.
Back at the park, the beach and grass make it easy to stay and play. The sandy beach is a great spot to build sandcastles, and the playgrounds are built for all kids to use. Having all these choices in one spot means you do not have to drive to new places all day. Most families find that the park, the pool, and the nearby trails provide more than enough to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to book paddleboard rentals in advance at Nottingham Lake?
Yes, booking ahead is a good idea to make sure you get the gear you want. Nottingham Lake is a popular spot in Avon, and rentals can fill up fast on summer days. You can check for open spots and book online to secure your gear before you arrive.
Is there a place for kids to swim or play in the sand at Nottingham Park?
Families can enjoy a swim area and a sandy beach at Harry A. Nottingham Park. The 48-acre park also has playgrounds and courts for a full day of outdoor fun. The calm and shallow waters provide a safe space for kids to cool off after paddling.
What is the best time of day to take kids paddle boarding in Avon?
Morning is often the best time for kids to get on the water since the winds are usually calm. Calm water makes it much easier for beginners and young children to stay balanced on their boards. Starting early also helps you beat the crowds at the park.
Are life jackets provided for children with boat rentals?
Yes, every rental comes with a life jacket, and we have sizes that fit children and toddlers. Our staff will help make sure that each vest fits right before your family heads out on the water.
Can a 3 year old go on a paddle board at Nottingham Lake?
Yes, children aged 3 and up can ride on a paddle board with an adult. The adult does all the paddling while the child sits on the front of the board. Nottingham Lake’s calm, shallow water makes this a safe and enjoyable activity for young children.
Ready to Book Your Family’s Water Adventure at Nottingham Lake?
Summer days in the mountains go by fast and the best rental times fill up early. If you wait too long to plan, you may find that the gear your kids need is already gone for the day. This safe and calm lake is the best place in Avon for young kids to learn how to paddle or steer a boat. By setting up your trip now, you make sure your family gets to enjoy the sun and the water without any stress.
Give your kids a fun day they will talk about all year. Our team is here to help you get on the water with ease.
Book your Nottingham Lake rental online or call (970) 453-7873 to reserve paddle boards, kayaks, or pedal boats for your family.
For a complete guide to Vail Valley water activities, check out our Vail Valley Paddleboarding guide with rental details, directions, and FAQs.