Chapter 17: The Lively State of LA and the Nature Nutters Long ago, in Louisiana - the state fondly called LA, the land was bursting with rivers that giggled, marshes that whispered, and forests that sang lullabies. The residents included sassy alligators, chatty pelicans, and countless critters that played hide and seek. The kids, oh they were all part of a bunch called the "Nature Nutters." The Nature Nutters were a wild, happy bunch. They were known to run faster than the Mississippi River, jump higher than the tallest cypress tree, and were as curious as Sherlock Holmes on a Sunday afternoon. Every day was a new adventure, with a new mystery to solve, a new creature to discover, and new laughs to be had. One of the Nutters was a kid named Bayou Billy. Billy owned a pet crawfish named Crawley, who wore a tiny top hat and claimed to be the king of all crawfish. He'd whisper secret tales of the swamp to Billy, who'd then gather the Nutters for a thrilling search for hidden treasure or a mysterious creature. Most days ended with hearty laughter, muddy clothes, and a sense of satisfaction that could only come from a day well spent in the heart of nature. In the state of LA, the sunsets were a sight to behold. As the sun began to hide behind the horizon, the air would fill with the chorus of the night. The crickets would strum their legs, the owls would hoot their goodnight song, and the Nutters would head home, dreaming of the next day’s adventure. But not before Crawley enacted a dramatic reading of his ‘royal decree’ under the silvery moonlight, causing peals of laughter to echo in the quiet night.
Read morebest nature programs in Pollock, LA
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.
Nestled in the piney woods of Louisiana, Camp Hardtner is a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Louisiana.This camp provides a safe and nurturing environment for individuals of all ages to come and explore the outdoors and build meaningful relationships with one another. By immersing themselves in the beauty of nature, campers are encouraged to step outside of their comfort zone and discover what it means to be part of a community. At Camp Hardtner, campers have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, from swimming and canoeing to team sports and campfires. This camp encourages campers to challenge themselves and build confidence by trying something new and pushing their boundaries. Campers also have the chance to learn about the environment and the importance of taking care of it through activities like nature walks and outdoor exploration. Camp Hardtner has something for everyone. They offer a variety of programs for children, teens, and adults, ranging from day trips to week-long residential programs. All camps are led by trained counselors who are dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for all campers. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family getaway or a place to make lasting memories with friends, Camp Hardtner is the perfect place to discover the beauty of nature and create lifelong friendships.