In the heart-shaped land of Illinois, nestled between the mighty Mississippi, the shimmering Lake Michigan, and round corn fields that look like polka dots from an airplane, a peculiar phenomenon takes place. It's the land where kids, ordinary during the day, turn into soaring superheroes after school – The Illinois Trampolinians! The Trampolinians are a jolly group of kids who embrace the marvels of gravity, or lack thereof, while bouncing on their magical trampolines. Billy 'Boing' Baxter, the leader of the group, is a ten-year-old with an eccentric head of curly hair, freckles that multiply every time he laughs (which is often), and a laugh that sounds like a donkey singing opera. In the corner of the land, where the sun sets and paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, Billy transforms into 'Billy the Bouncer'. Together with his team of Trampolinians, he leads epic battles against gravity. With each bounce, they shoot into the sky like rockets, perform somersaults that would make an Olympic gymnast blush, and land with a grace that would make a cat look clumsy. Their laughter rings louder than the chiming church bells, echoing across the cornfields, over the rivers, and into the heart of the city. The Illinois Trampolinians, with their boundless energy and infectious laughter, have a way of making the state even more magical, colorful, and lively. So, if you're ever visiting the beautiful land of Illinois, listen closely for the echo of laughter and the tell-tale boings, and you might just spot Billy and his team, defying gravity and spreading joy.
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Nestled in 178 acres of lush woodland is a serene escape from the city, a place fondly known as Camp Swamp. This overnight Christian camp, located just two hours east of bustling Atlanta, has been serving as a peaceful retreat since 1992. We like to think of it as our own "little slice of heaven," offering a respite from the daily hustle and bustle, and inviting people to reconnect with nature and their spirituality. Our primary offering is a week-long summer camp, but we've expanded over the years to include more than just summer fun. As part of our mission to support families and churches, we now also host three family camps throughout the year, as well as four parent/child retreats. These events offer a chance for families to bond, parents to connect with their children, and individuals to grow in their faith. Moreover, our facilities are not exclusive to our organized events. Camp Swamp also offers rentals to schools, churches, universities, sports teams, and even business groups. Whether you're planning a camp, a retreat, or a team-building excursion, our serene setting and well-equipped facilities provide the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
In 2010, Dan and Andy bought and invested $1 million in construction and renovation of Camp Manitowa Rend Lake. Since then, the 40-acre property has been hosting sleep-away summer camps, retreats, and festivals. It is the newest, freshest camp in the Benton area of Southern Illinois, and is located only 90 minutes from St. Louis, MO and Paducah, KY. At Camp Manitowa, campers entering grades 2nd through 8th can benefit from a tailored 1 or 2 week residential camp program. This program is designed with younger campers’ needs in mind, and encourages the development of independence, self-esteem, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. Campers also have the opportunity to make lifelong friends in a small, nurturing community. The camp also offers structured free play and choice time, allowing campers to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment to learn. In 2013, Camp Manitowa is offering week long specialty camps that focus on water skiing, magic, rock school, science, and the popular sport of Gaga. With its unique program and offerings, Camp Manitowa Rend Lake is a great place for campers to experience all the fun and adventure of a summer camp.