In the enchanting state of New Hampshire, nestled between the magnificent White Mountains and the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean, exists a secret society of culinary artists. These aren't ordinary chefs, oh no, these are the children of the 'Granite State'. And they're not alone; they're guided by the coolest, most admired culinary wizard of all time - Chef Zest-a-Lot. Chef Zest-a-Lot, a jolly fellow with a hat made of pancake batter and a cape stitched with candy floss, is always ready for a cooking expedition. His eyes, twinkling like chocolate chips, hold a mischievous glint that matches perfectly with his giggly, gurgling laughter. His secret weapon? A magical spatula, that flips not just pancakes, but the dullest moods into jolly good times! The children, or as Chef Zest-a-Lot calls them, his 'little sous chefs', team up from all corners of the state. From the quaint town of Littleton to the bustling city of Manchester, these kids have the freshest maple syrup from the Sugarbushes and the juiciest apples from the orchards at their disposal. Their imaginations run wild, creating everything from blueberry pie mountains to clam chowder rivers. Despite the cold New Hampshire winters, the kitchens are always warm with laughter, camaraderie, and the sweet aromas of creativity. The children might be tiny, but they stir up a storm in the kitchen. As they whisk, chop, bake, and roast, they also learn, grow, and bond, under the watchful marshmallow eyes of the jovial Chef Zest-a-Lot. In their world, every recipe is an adventure, and every dish is a delicious triumph.
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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.
Weekly themes at UNH Campus Recreation offer something for everyone. From sports to arts and crafts, free swim, and hobbies, campers can explore new activities and gain knowledge of the outdoors. Games and aquatic activities are also available, allowing campers to learn about New Hampshire’s ecological diversity. Campers should bring a lunch to enjoy during the camp day. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the camp is limited to 80 campers per week.