Once upon a time, in the wild and whimsical world of the North Star State, Minnesota, there existed a squawky and quirky bird named Loony the Loon. Now, Minnesota was a land of 10,000 gleaming lakes, dense, mysterious forests, and kids who were anything but ordinary. These kiddos had a knack for a unique activity - Riflery! Yes, you heard it right, Riflery! The young Minnesotans took immense pride in their love for this exciting sport. Now, don't you go thinking that these kids were doing anything dangerous. Nope! They were all under the watchful eyes of Loony the Loon, the legendary mascot of Minnesota Riflery. Loony was a distinctive character himself, known for his off-beat humor and loud squawks that could be heard all across the Lake Superior shore. "Alright kiddos, line up! Remember, safety glasses on, fingers off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot, and always aim at the target,” Loony would squawk, flapping his wings dramatically. The kids, as obedient as they were adventurous, would follow his commands to the tee. They loved the thrill of Riflery, the way their hearts pounded when they hit a bull's eye, and the sense of accomplishment it brought them. Never a dull day in Minnesota, the land of adventurous spirits! The kids of this enchanted place had the courage of a bear, the precision of an eagle, and the mischief of a raccoon. And at the heart of it all was Loony the Loon, who made each day of Riflery a laugh-out-loud, feathery, and memorable experience.
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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.
Camp Victory is a welcoming place for adults, too! We offer retreats for church, youth, and family ministries, as well as corporate retreats. Our facilities provide a peaceful and beautiful environment for any group looking for a place to grow together. We also offer individual retreats and outdoor experiences for any purpose. Our staff are passionate about creating an atmosphere where relationships are nurtured and faith can grow. Whether you are a camper, a retreat group, or an individual, Camp Victory is the perfect place to be!