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, (currently our website is under construction) 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.
Our mission for summer 2022 is to help children unplug from technology and get outside. We offer a unique combination of hands-on learning and outdoor adventure. At our camp, campers will explore the local shoreline, examine marine life, and learn about the environment. Our camp physician and staff are dedicated to providing a safe and healthy environment for our campers. Additionally, we work closely with the camp community and the state of CT to ensure that all safety protocols are followed. Project Oceanology is excited to provide a summer camp experience for kids to explore the outdoors and get away from their devices. We know that spending time outdoors is essential for children's physical and mental health. With the right precautions and safety protocols in place, children can enjoy all the benefits of outdoor play in a safe and secure environment this summer.