Florida, the sunshine state, is a magical land where the sun always seems to be playing peek-a-oo with the cotton candy clouds. Imagine it as a gigantic sandcastle, where the ocean waves gently nip at its edges, while palm trees sway like enthusiastic cheerleaders. The air smells of salt, sunshine, and the sweetest citrus you can imagine. It's a place where kids can swap their sneakers for flip-flops and trade their snow coats for sunblock. Now, meet our main character - Captain Flapjack, a jolly, sunburnt pelican with a hat that's three times too big for his head. He's Florida's unofficial guide for all the kids who love to explore and have a taste for nature. He organizes expeditions for the bravest little adventurers, leading them through the lush Everglades, spotting the elusive Florida panther or observing the alligators, who often look like they're grinning. Captain Flapjack also arranges snorkeling tours so kids can meet the colorful residents of the coral reefs. He always has a funny story to share, like the time he accidentally used a starfish as a frisbee or when he mistook a manatee for a floating couch! But the best adventure, according to Captain Flapjack, is when the sun goes down, and the bioluminescent water glows under the star-filled sky. It's a sight that can tickle your imagination and make you laugh out loud with sheer delight. So, if you're a kid in Florida ready for a wild, weird, and wonderfully wet adventure, strap on your explorer's hat and join Captain Flapjack for a nature-filled escapade you'll never forget!
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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.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a great place for families to spend an afternoon exploring the many wonders of the Everglades. The boardwalk trail is an easy, wheelchair accessible journey through the sanctuary, providing a safe and educational experience for children of all ages. Visitors can take advantage of the many interpretive signs and displays along the way, and the onsite Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Visitor Center offers a wide range of educational materials and activities. The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a unique natural area that's worth a visit for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty and diversity of Florida's ecosystems. With its unique boardwalk trail, a wonderful array of wildlife, and plenty of educational opportunities, the Sanctuary is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
The Friends of Rookery Bay is a nonprofit organization that fundraises and works to build up the community surrounding the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Through their efforts, the Friends of Rookery Bay helps to preserve this vital piece of Southwest Florida’s coastal environment for generations to come. The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a unique partnership between the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, and Florida International University. Located in Collier County, this 110,000 acre reserve is responsible for managing the wildlife and habitat in the area, encompassing 40 percent of the county’s coastline. The Reserve focuses on research, education, and conservation, while the Friends of Rookery Bay works to build the local community and raise funds to support the Reserve’s efforts. Together, the two organizations are committed to ensuring the protection of Southwest Florida’s precious coastal environment for years to come.