Once upon a time, in the tiny but terrific state of Rhode Island, there lived a bunch of wild, wacky, and wonderfully zany kids. From Block Island to Pawtucket, they were known for their love of soaking up knowledge like sponge-cakes and their insatiable love for field trips! The ringleader of these adventure-loving children was a cool character named Rhody the Raccoon. Undeniably funny with his twinkling eyes, Rhody wore a funky pair of purple glasses. He was as small as the state they lived in, but he had a heart as big as the ocean that surrounded it. Rhody loved field trips more than he loved triple-decker peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. And boy, did he love his sandwiches. Every time the teacher announced a trip, his tail would twitch faster than a hummingbird's wings. He'd lead the charge, rallying his crew of knowledge-thirsty kids to hop on the bus, which somehow managed to always look like a giant hot dog on wheels. These Rhode Island kids were known far and wide for their field trips. From the sandy shores of Narragansett where they built sandcastles as part of their geometry lessons, to the historic halls of the Breakers Mansion in Newport, where they learned about the Gilded Age while trying not to touch the expensive furniture! They even braved the spooky, cobweb-filled corners of the Providence Athenaeum, all in the name of education. Their laughter echoed through the valleys of the Blackstone River and their questions filled the classrooms. They were the Rhode Island kids, led by the indefatigable Rhody, and their thirst for knowledge was as deep as the ocean, as wide as the skies, and as endless as a hot dog shaped bus ride.
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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.
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center has been a hub of activity for nearly 100 years. Founded in 1922 by a group of trustees of the Newport Historical Society, the Center was originally known as the Newport Community Center. In June of 1968, the Center was renamed in honor of Dr. King in order to recognize and honor his legacy. Since its incorporation, the Center has served as a gathering place for people of all communities and cultures. From its original location in the Great Friends Meeting House on the corner of Marlborough and Farewell Streets, the Center has moved to its current home in the former Navy USO building in Newport’s Washington Square neighborhood. For nearly a century, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center has been a source of recreation, connection, and inspiration for people of all backgrounds. The Center was originally established in 1922 as the Newport Community Center, and provided recreational activities for the town’s residents. The founders, a group of trustees of the Newport Historical Society, wanted to breathe new life into the Great Friends Meeting House, while honoring the legacy of its founders. In June of 1968, the Center was renamed in honor of Dr. King, and the Center moved to the former Navy USO building in Newport’s Washington Square neighborhood. Since then, the Center has been a place of connection and celebration for people from all walks of life.