In the enchanting, mitten-shaped land of Michigan, there is an activity that reigns supreme over all others. This is the thrilling, belly-laugh inducing, and slightly watery art of kayaking! The kids in Michigan, who are as brave as knights and as adventurous as explorers, have a unique love for this spectacular sport. You see, Michigan is a water wonderland, surrounded by Great Lakes and filled with thousands of smaller ones, rivers, and creeks, making it the perfect playground for our kayaking kiddos. Now, let me introduce you to a special character named Kapoodle the Kayaking Kangaroo. Kapoodle, with his big, rubbery feet for paddles and his waterproof pouch that doubles as a kayak, is the champion of Michigan's waterways and the imaginary buddy of kayaking kids across the state. When Kapoodle jumps, he doesn't just spring into the air, oh no! He leaps into a new adventure, splashing through the waterways of Michigan with his child companions brimming with laughter, paddling like mad, and their hair spiked up like mini water fountains! Every wave to them is a mountain to conquer, every rapid a dragon to slay! The sun's rays become their spotlights, the wind their cheering crowd, and the water their arena. These kids, with their life-vests strapped on like superhero capes, and Kapoodle by their sides, paddle through the water like a pizza slice slides through extra cheese! As they splash and laugh, they create memories woven with sunshine, water, and the irreplaceable thrill of a Michigan kayaking adventure. So, if you ever visit the terrific state of Michigan and you find a kayak, remember to strap on your imaginary kangaroo feet and prepare for a wet and wild ride with Kapoodle and the fearless kids of Michigan. Don't forget your sense of humor and love for adventure, because in the end, that's what kayaking in Michigan with Kapoodle is all about!
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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.
At YMCA Storer Camps, we are dedicated to providing an immersive outdoor experience for our campers. Our 1300 acres of beautiful landscape in the Irish Hills region of southeast Michigan create the perfect environment for campers to explore, discover and grow. YMCA Storer Camps have been offering Outdoor Education programs since the late 1960s, making us one of the earliest programs of its kind in the United States. Our two centers, located on both sides of Stony Lake, offer a variety of programs for our campers. The North Center offers Outdoor School, Youth and Teen Camps, while the South Center hosts Specialty and Day Camps during the summer months. At YMCA Storer Camps, we believe in providing a safe and exciting outdoor experience for our campers.
At YMCA Storer Camps, we understand the unique challenges faced by children dealing with the difficulties of cancer. That is why we offer Camp Catch-A-Rainbow (CCAR) for free. This camp is specifically designed for children between the ages of four and seventeen who are fighting or have fought cancer. At CCAR, kids can enjoy a variety of activities including swimming, archery, and horseback riding. They can also challenge themselves with high adventure ropes courses and explore their creative side through arts and crafts. We also offer canoeing as an activity at no cost to campers. At YMCA Storer Camps, we believe in the power of play to help children with cancer. Thanks to the generosity of donors and grants, Camp Catch-A-Rainbow is free for all campers. Our goal is to provide a safe and fun environment for kids to simply have a good time and build lifelong memories.