In the thrill-filled state of Illinois, where skyscrapers and cornfields share the horizon, a group of spirited kids has taken the plunge into the world of swimming. They're part of the "Illinois Water Wizards", a remarkable swim team, led by none other than the fantastically funny, Freddy the Fish-Finned Frog. Freddy was no ordinary frog; he was born with flippers instead of webbed toes, making him the Michael Phelps of the amphibian world. With his shiny goggles and his sparkling green speedo, Freddy was the perfect swimming coach for these young, determined Illinois kids. Each day, these Water Wizards would gather around the edge of the great Lake Michigan, donning their vibrant and slick swimsuits, chattering and laughing, their spirits as high as the Willis Tower. They'd listen attentively as Freddy, with his hilarious water splashing antics and slippery dive demonstrations, taught them the art of swimming. Whether it was the butterfly, breaststroke, or backstroke, these Illinois kids were ready to dive in. They were as fearless as the mighty Mississippi River that bordered their state, and as adventurous as the explorers who once tread the Illinois prairies. Their laughter echoed across the lake, their splashes sent ripples across the water, their determination warmed the hearts of those watching. The Land of Lincoln transformed into the Land of Swimming, where kids, under the guidance of Freddy, discovered that swimming was not just about propelling through water, but also about building friendship, embracing fun, and diving deep into the pool of life's adventures. The Water Wizards were indeed, the swimming champions of Illinois.
Read morebest swimming programs in Oregon, IL
For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.
At LOMC, we are deeply grateful to honor and recognize the Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Hoocąk (Ho-Chunk), Myaamia, Sauk/Meskwaki, Peoria, Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo) peoples who have been living on the ancestral homelands of the Rock River Valley for generations. We are also thankful to all our Indigenous siblings who have and continue to care for this land and call it their home. LOMC is a ministry of the ELCA congregations in Illinois. Our 600+ acre site in the Rock River Valley of Northwestern Illinois is the focal point for summer camping programs for children and youth, as well as a variety of retreats and conferences throughout the year. At LOMC, we are committed to the long-term stewardship of the Rock River Valley and acknowledge the Indigenous people who have been living here for generations. We are grateful for their ongoing care and reverence of this land and are humbled to honor and recognize them.