Once upon a time, a zany zebra named Ziggy zoomed across the vast landscapes of the enchanting state of Maine, known to locals as ME. This wasn't your average zebra, oh no! Ziggy was the most adventurous zebra of all, and he loved to hike. He was so crazy about hiking that he would trot across the piney forests and scramble up the rocky hills, his zebra-striped backpack filled with maps, snacks, and binoculars. Ziggy soon discovered that he wasn't the only one who loved hiking in ME. He met a group of kids who had the same zest for adventure. These kids were full of energy, their cheeks rosy from the fresh Maine air, their eyes sparkling with anticipation of the next trail or summit. They were as diverse as the state’s geography, with personalities as fresh as a Maine blueberry pie and as rugged as its rocky coastline. Some kids were like the mighty Moosehead Lake, calm and deep, others were like the fast-flowing Kennebec River, full of energy and excitement. Together, they made up a fantastic hiking team, all under the watchful eye of Ziggy, their fun-loving zebra guide. These intrepid explorers would spend hours hiking the trails of Acadia National Park, scaling the heights of Mount Katahdin, and exploring the mysteries of the Appalachian Trail. With every step, their laughter echoed through the forests, their excitement stirred up the leaves, and their stories filled the air with magic. And at the end of the day, tired but happy, they would gather around a campfire, roasting marshmallows, sharing tales, and planning their next grand adventure under the starlit Maine sky. And Ziggy, with his infectious laughter and endless stories, was always the life of the party!
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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.
Our experienced staff and volunteers are here to help your child grow and develop in the wilderness of Maine. For the young adventurers, the YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan offers a range of programs that are designed to help your child explore the great outdoors. Our Sleep Away Camp and Adventure Seekers program offer a variety of activities for kids of all ages, from canoeing and kayaking to swimming, archery, and more. Our Leaders School gives teens the opportunity to develop leadership skills and foster teamwork, while having fun with friends in the wild. We strive to partner with parents to provide a safe and positive experience for your child throughout their life.