Deep in the heart of the Tradoodle Forest, within the marvelous state of Minnesota, known affectionally as the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes,’ a group of adventurous kids known as the 'Merry Meandering Minnesotans' or 'Triple M' would gather every sunny Saturday. Minnesota is a state known for its natural beauty - with cascading waterfalls, serene forests, and of course, an abundance of sparkling lakes. And the Triple M's are known for their love of hiking through this breathtaking landscape. Now, remember, these aren't your average kids. Nope, not by a long shot. They possess an incredible sense of adventure and bravery, and they are led by none other than their fearless and funny leader, Squiggly Moose. Despite his name, Squiggly Moose is not really a moose, but a child with a set of antlers atop his head, so don't be too confused! With a giggle in his voice and a spring in his step, Squiggly Moose would lead his troop of jolly young hikers through the enchanting wilderness of Minnesota. They would skip along the pine needle-strewn paths, climb the sugar maple trees, and race each other to the top of the sleeping giant hills. Their laughter could be heard echoing through the valley, scaring away the grumpy old crows, and making the bald eagles above chuckle in delight. No river was too wide, no mountain too steep, and no trail too long for these Minnesota kids. They loved exploring the natural wonders of their state as much as Squiggly Moose loved telling his fantastical stories about the "invisible squirrels" and "giggling gophers". And thus, the state of Minnesota was a beautiful paradise for these brave, hilarious, and adventurous young hikers.
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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.
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