Open Canoe Festival: April 30 to May 3, 2026
Europe’s leading canoeing event… at Gervanne Camping
Every year, the Drôme Valley becomes Europe’s canoeing capital.
For three days, theOpen Canoe Festival (OCF ) brings together almost 600 enthusiasts from over 13 countries.
130 workshops, 35 international instructors, three languages… it’s now the biggest European event dedicated to touring canoeing and its culture.
And it all takes place here, at Gervanne Camping, on the banks of the river.
🌍 A major event… in a simple, friendly spirit.
The Drôme, navigable for over 30 km between Die and Crest, becomes the participants’ playground.
Days are spent on the river and at the campsite, and evenings are spent under a large 400 m² tepee complex, in a warm atmosphere that has become almost legendary.
Here, we talk paddling, bivouac, river… but above all, sharing.
🛶 A rich and exciting program
The Open Canoe Festival is :
- Technical and safety workshops led by renowned guides
- Descents on the turquoise waters of the Drôme
- Initiations for beginners, intermediates and experts
- Canoe and outdoor equipment tests
- Specialized exhibitors
- Festive meals and tastings of local produce
- A concert and convivial moments
- A prize draw
But it’s also a whole outdoor culture:
- Bivouac cooking
- Trackless camping
- Group management
- First aid in natural environments
- River flora and fauna
- Canoe photography
- Camping techniques
A complete event, combining sport, education and humanity.
🌿 A river, a culture, a commitment
The Drôme is one of Europe’s last great wild rivers.
The festival promotes a practice that is respectful, responsible and aware of the natural environment.
Since 2010, over 5,000 participants have fallen under the spell of the Open Canoe Festival.
And we’re proud that it’s happening right here at home.
🏕️ Sleep at the heart of the event
During the Open Canoe Festival :
- The campsite becomes Europe’s canoeing base camp
- Exchanges go on until late… in a calm atmosphere
- The river is just a few steps from the pitches
- A lively, family atmosphere
It’s a highlight of the season.