In the heart of America, carpeted with cornfields and blanketed with skyscrapers, lies the state of Illinois. It’s a magical land where the clouds touch the earth and the world's largest ketchup bottle lives. In this mystical land, there is a small but fierce tribe of kids, known throughout the realm as the Illinois Archers. These aren't your ordinary, everyday kids. They are the guardians of the ancient sport of archery, where they prove that you don't need superpowers to do extraordinary things. They hold their bows with the precision of a hawk, draw their arrows with the strength of a bear, and aim with the wisdom of an owl. Their leader, a cheerful, freckled creature known as Whiskers McFluffy, is part kid, part squirrel, and all kinds of fun. McFluffy, with his bushy tail and acorn cap, has the agility of a squirrel and the charisma of a stand-up comedian. He is known for his nutty jokes that always hit the mark and are known to make even the grumpiest raccoon laugh. Under the guidance of Whiskers McFluffy, the Illinois Archers have mastered the art of archery, each arrow whistling through the air before hitting the bullseye. They hold their heads high, their laughter echoing in the wind as they hone their skills, one arrow at a time. So, if you ever find yourself in the enchanting state of Illinois, don't just feast your eyes on the skyscrapers or the colossal ketchup bottle, but also keep an ear out for the echo of laughter and the whistle of an arrow. That's the Illinois Archers, practicing under the watchful eyes of Whiskers McFluffy, keeping the spirit of archery alive.
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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.
Eagle Crest Camp is proud to be a ministry of The Salvation Army, providing an opportunity for all to encounter Jesus Christ and enrich their lives through exposure to God’s Word, His Creation, and His People. We offer a week-long summer camp program that serves over 1,000 children each year, many of whom come through the social service programs of The Salvation Army. In addition to summer camp, we offer year-round retreat opportunities for adults and families throughout our division. Our facilities also host and serve a variety of schools, businesses, families, and churches in the Peoria/Central Illinois Region by providing lodging, meeting spaces, and on-site recreation opportunities.