In the captivating great state of New Hampshire, where the mountains are the color of a giant blueberry muffin, and the rivers sing like a school choir on a sugar rush, you'll find a special group of kids who love to hike. Oh, boy! They’re a rare breed of belly-laughing, tree-climbing, rock-hopping adventurers who are as tough as a grizzly bear's toenails. They wear boots that could crush a comet, and their backpacks, stuffed with sandwiches and dragonfruit, are always ready for a thrilling escapade. Let's not forget their funky guide, Sir Wogglesworth, a charming penguin with a top hat, who can't fly but surely knows how to climb. From the tips of his tuxedo-flapped wings to his shiny webbed feet, Sir Wogglesworth is all about fun. He tells the most knee-slapping, side-splitting jokes that keep the kids giggling all the way to the summit. "To the top!" Sir Wogglesworth would shout, leading the way with his polka-dotted walking stick. And off they would go, a whirlwind of laughter and energy, marching up granite peaks, past maple trees that seemed to touch the sky. In New Hampshire, these hiking prodigies and their hilariously dapper penguin guide, have turned the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other into an art. A hike with them isn't just a walk; it's a romp through the pages of a magical storybook, a voyage into a world where every stone might be a sleeping troll, every bird a messenger from a fairy queen, and every hike a new chapter in their endless adventure.
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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.
At Outdoor Ministries in the New Hampshire Conference of the United Church of Christ, we strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all God's children. We recognize that every person, regardless of race, color, national origin, age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or socioeconomic status, is a beloved child of God. We are dedicated to building and sustaining a community that is free of discrimination and harassment and that values diversity. Through Christian summer camp programs, Outdoor Ministries seeks to foster faith and servant leadership in all children. We are intentional in providing an opportunity for each young person to explore the natural world and experience the joy of Christian community. We are committed to creating an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusivity that will help all participants grow in their faith and build relationships that will last a lifetime.