In the magical land of Minnesota, where the sun kisses the 10,000 lakes goodnight, a team of adventurous younglings known as "The Paddle Pals" rule the waters. This state, sparkling like a blue gem in the heart of America, is famous for its enchanting forests, majestic wildlife, and of course, its merry band of boating enthusiasts. The Paddle Pals are no ordinary kids, oh no! They are the champions of canoeing, the titans of the Twin Cities' lakes. Their captain, a charming young lad named Captain Loon, with hair as wild as the waves and a laugh that echoes across the waters, leads them on their glorious aquatic adventures. Captain Loon, named after Minnesota's state bird, wears a loon feather in his hat, and it's said to bring him and his team good luck while navigating the rippling waters. The Paddle Pals are a curious bunch, forever on the lookout for new adventures. Their boats are their rocket ships, their canoes their magic carpets, whisking them away on tales of discovery and friendship. From the Lake of the Woods to the mighty Mississippi, they sail, paddle, and giggle their way through the heart of the state. Minnesota, with its waters touched by the magic of the Paddle Pals, becomes a place of wonder and excitement. Whether they're racing against the splashing waves, spotting the shyest beavers, or sharing hot cocoa under the starlit sky, every day is a new adventure for the Paddle Pals. Mn, as our beloved Captain Loon likes to call it, is truly a paradise for kids with an unquenchable thirst for fun, friendship, and a good splash!
Read morebest boating-canoeing programs in Oakdale, MN
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.
Camp Odayin is about more than just a camp experience — it's about creating a safe and supportive environment for young people with heart disease and their families. Our campers have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities, including arts and crafts, swimming, music, team-building, and more. We provide a holistic approach to healing hearts and nurture and develop independence, confidence, and acceptance. We also create a sense of community among our heart family and celebrate life. Our campers can make friends, share experiences, and have fun together. At Camp Odayin, we believe in creating a safe, supportive, and fun environment for young people with heart disease and their families. We provide a range of activities for campers to explore, such as arts and crafts, swimming, music, and team-building. Our holistic approach to healing hearts combines physical, mental, and emotional activities to encourage independence, confidence, and acceptance. We also strive to create a sense of community among our heart family, allowing campers to make friends and celebrate life together. At Camp Odayin, we are committed to providing an enjoyable and safe camp experience for young people with heart disease and their families. We offer a wide range of activities designed to heal hearts, build independence, and foster acceptance. We provide an environment of community and support, encouraging campers to make meaningful connections and celebrate life together. Our holistic approach to healing hearts helps campers to develop confidence and acceptance, while having fun and creating lasting memories.