The state of North Carolina, affectionately nicknamed the "Tar Heel State," sits like a sparkling emerald nestled between the thundering Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Appalachian Mountains. Its heart beats with the rhythm of bluegrass music, and its lifeblood is the perfect blend of sweet iced tea and tangy barbecue sauce. The kids of North Carolina? Ah, they're a special bunch, especially those who partake in the magical realm of ceramics. Meet Pottery Pete, the invisible ceramics maestro who guides their small, nimble hands. Pete is a wildly funny character, born from a blob of wet clay and a drop of North Carolina sunshine. He's as real as the red clay beneath the blooming dogwood trees, yet as made-up as the stories grandpa tells on the porch swing. With an outrageous moustache that constantly drips clay and a laugh that sounds like a donkey stuck in a mud puddle, Pete is the secret behind every ceramic masterpiece. These audacious Tar Heel kids, under Pete's invisible tutelage, mold, shape, and create works of art that could make a mockingbird sing a new tune. They are the wizards of the wheel, the conjurers of clay, and the maestros of mugs. They might look like the everyday Carolinian kids, with their freckled noses and sun-kissed hair, but wait till you see their clay-streaked hands dance on the pottery wheel! The shapes that emerge are as surprising as a frog wearing a top hat. In North Carolina, ceramics is more than just an activity; it's a symphony played by the fingers, a story told by the hands, and a world brought to life by the imagination. Just ask Pottery Pete, he'll agree, with a 'hee-haw' and a flick of his clay-dripping mustache.
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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.
Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, our campgrounds are only one mile away from the bustling town of Brevard, with a population of 7,000. With Asheville just a 40-minute drive away and Pisgah National Forest a mere 15 minutes away, our campers are sure to enjoy the many outdoor activities available. We provide plenty of programs for children between the ages 7 to 14, including Leadership, Aide, and Counselor-In-Training programs for older campers. Our staff make sure to keep our campers engaged and entertained with trips to the nearby attractions and activities. With so much to do and explore, your child is sure to have a summer of fun memories.
Nancy Barnum Clarke was passionate about providing a unique experience for the young women who came to Rockbrook. She was inspired by the nature around her to create a camp filled with activities that nurtured a connection to the natural world. Outdoor AdventuresNancy designed activities that would get girls outdoors and exploring. She was a firm believer that the best way to build self-esteem and appreciation for nature was to spend time outdoors. She spearheaded hikes, biking trips, and river rafting adventures. Girls also had the chance to learn how to canoe, cook over a campfire, and do other activities that connected them with nature. Life SkillsNancy was also passionate about developing life skills and encouraging personal growth. She believed that nurturing a sense of self-reliance and self-awareness was just as important as outdoor education. Her program included classes on music, art, and craft making. She also taught lessons on respect, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. Girls learned to live together as a community and to take responsibility for their own actions. Nancy Barnum Clarke was a pioneer in the field of outdoor education. Her legacy lives on today in Rockbrook, the camp she established nearly 100 years ago. Her commitment to helping young girls discover the joy and freedom of nature continues to shape the lives of those who visit the camp.