River Outfitters – About Us

Tawny Hammond and Amy Clayton – Owners

Tawny Hammond and Amy Clayton have over 60 years of parks and recreation leadership and management experience combined, having directed lake, river, waterpark and natatorium operations and programming in Fairfax County, Virginia throughout their notable careers. Both Certified Interpretive Guides, they now live on the Boardman Lake and are excited about bringing their water safety, devotion to public service excellence and waterfront programming experiences and skills to The River Outfitters.

Tawny and Amy have both have been coming to Traverse City for the past 30 years spending time with family, recreating and dreaming about this opportunity!


Scott Hammond – General Manager of Operations

Scott Hammond grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan and has spent the majority of his career in public service and the business world. His love for the outdoors and all things related to Traverse City began 30 years ago when he began visiting family in Traverse City and staying longer and longer until finally, he made the move permanently.

Scott also has a water safety background and experience running recreation programs for children and adults. Scott is at the helm of the River Outfitters as the General Manager overseeing The River East, West and South locations.


Jolynn (Jo) Paige – General Manager

Jo exudes a love of life and excitement about all creatures great and small. She’s a yogi, musician, writer, as well as general manager. Jo is an avid forager with mushrooms as her specialty.

The same passion she has for knowing all she can about the plants of Leelanau County also spills over into her love for sharing the beauty of the forest and trails in northern Michigan with our guests on the Wind Dancer land excursions!


Tree Sturman – Nature & Tour Guide

“Shakespeare is famous for the line “what’s in a name.” Well in this case, The River’s eco-tour guide, Tree Sturman lives up to his name!

With a bachelor’s degree in Human Ecology and a master’s degree in Non-Profit Management, this lifetime nature lover, plant geek, rockhound, paddler, hiker, and Montessori teacher, has something to share about the magnificent landscapes of Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties.

Tree will make sure all your needs are covered on the trail ride while showing you some of the hidden delights and treasures along the way!”


Amara Walter

Amara brings joy and happiness to all around her. She strives for excellence every day she is on the job.

Her very first month with The River Outfitters, she spent every day off, kayaking and biking with family and friends. Her first day on the job, she jumped up on a a SUP and paddled around Boardman Lake.  


The River South | 231-883-1413
Medalie Park @ Boardman River & Lake - 1910 W. South Airport Rd, Traverse City MI
Trip Advisor Award Winner
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