In the quaint, charming state of Connecticut, where the seasons dance together like lifelong friends, there's a squad of sprightly children known as the "Canoe Cadets". These aren't your ordinary kids. Oh no! They're adventurous little rascals, brave enough to challenge the whimsy waves of the Connecticut River, with nothing but their paddles and their passion for boating and canoeing. That's right, folks! The Canoe Cadets paddle their way across the breezy blue rivers, their laughter echoing amidst the whispering willows and chirping robins. Connecticut is a wonderland of picturesque landscapes, and our courageous Cadets love nothing more than exploring the sparkling waterways in their shiny canoes, their eyes filled with wonder and curiosity. Meet Captain Bobblebeard, the imaginary skipper of our juniors. A jolly, rosy-cheeked fellow, who, despite his name, has no beard to bobble. No one had ever seen a drop of sea in his life, but believe it or not, he is the ultimate guide for our Cadets, navigating them through the waterways with his immense knowledge of currents, winds, and...um...imaginary sea monsters. Every ripple in the river tells a story, and no one is better at interpreting those stories than Captain Bobblebeard. And the Cadets, they listen with rapt attention, their eyes wide with amazement, giggles escaping their lips whenever Captain Bobblebeard slips a silly joke into his tales. From the radiant mornings to the tranquil dusks, the Canoe Cadets of Connecticut conquer the rivers with their paddles, their spirits, and their whimsical captain. Connecticut is their playground, and canoeing is their favorite game. So, if you ever find yourself in the Nutmeg State, keep an eye out for the Canoe Cadets, and maybe, just maybe, you might catch a glimpse of the legendary Captain Bobblebeard.
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Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
At Camp Jewell YMCA, we strive to create an environment where campers feel safe, comfortable, and accepted. Our staff are committed to helping campers build self-respect, make friends, and have lots of fun! We know that positive relationships between campers, staff, and parents are essential for a successful summer camp experience. We are proud to offer a place where campers can feel free to express themselves and be their true selves.
At Camp Jewell, our staff, campers, and parents join in a unique sense of community that is hard to find anywhere else. We’re proud to have this kind of culture here at Camp Jewell, and to be able to provide a safe and nurturing environment for all of our campers and families. The relationships that are built at Camp Jewell last a lifetime, and the memories that are made here are just as strong. Camp Jewell has been a haven for families to come together for over a hundred years, and the culture that we’ve created here is just as strong today. From the welcoming atmosphere to the shared experiences, Camp Jewell is a place where people can be themselves and form lasting friendships. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and accepting environment for all of our campers and their families is our utmost priority. We strive to ensure every camper and their family feels at home here at Camp Jewell.