In the vast, hearty state of Texas, where the clouds stretch as far as the eye can see and the sunsets paint the sky like a sprawling mural, there resides an unusual yet charming group of kids. These are not your everyday, run-of-the-mill children, oh no, these kids are the remarkable members of the Texas Tumbleweed Art & Crafts Club! Led by none other than the cool, capricious cowboy artist, Doodlebug Dan, who sports a paint-splattered ten-gallon hat and a pair of crayon-colored chaps. These kids are as diverse as the Texan landscape itself. Some are as enthusiastic and wild as the tumbleweeds that roll across the wide-open plains, others as calm and reflective as the tranquil surface of the Guadalupe River, but they all share a love for creating marvelous masterpieces. Through sizzling summers and bone-chilling winters, the Art & Crafts club keeps their creativity flowing like the Rio Grande. In Doodlebug Dan's workshop, beneath the shade of a giant cottonwood tree, you'll see the children huddled around tables, their faces glowing with concentration. They use everything from paints and pencils to the most unconventional of materials like prickly cactus needles and shiny armadillo shells, to create their pieces of art. An outsider might think it's all a chaotic, colorful mess, but to Doodlebug Dan and his posse, it's a symphony of imagination with every child playing their part. Their laughter rings through the air, the sound as sweet and cheerful as a mockingbird's song on a spring morning. In Texas, art & crafts aren't just a hobby, they're a way of life, as essential as cowboy boots and barbeque.
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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 the Texas Lions Camp, we view camp as a golden ticket for kids to explore the unexplored, kindle their curious minds, and discover new passions and skills. We inspire our young campers to step out of their comfort zones and take on exciting challenges that they might generally avoid, such as horseback riding, rock climbing, or simply relishing the pure joy of being part of a team. We are proud to say that our camp welcomes children with physical disabilities, children with Down Syndrome, and children with Type-1 Diabetes. At our camp, we stress the significance of working together. Almost every activity we've planned encourages collaboration, stemming from our belief that we are naturally social beings. We believe that when we come together, we can accomplish remarkable feats. Being part of a team is not just a vital skill for life; it's also a pathway to building self-confidence and experiencing the gratification of helping others achieve their goals. Our vast experience over the last seventy years has taught us that children who invest their time and efforts in helping others succeed develop a stronger sense of self-value and a rejuvenated sense of purpose. Each week, our young campers depart with a newfound understanding of the importance of pursuing friendships, setting goals, working as a team, and fostering a passion that we've seen translate into invaluable life lessons. These lessons form a foundation that can guide them to lead successful and meaningful lives.
Located in the lush greenery of Texas Hill Country and just a short distance from Kerrville is the charming Camp Chrysalis. This expansive 99-acre haven is adorned with a breathtaking bluff that overlooks the peaceful Turtle Creek. It's the perfect getaway for families looking for a combination of nature's tranquility and the thrill of outdoor escapades. Camp Chrysalis offers non-stop fun that isn't limited to the summer season. This paradise for outdoor lovers remains operational throughout the year, providing a variety of summer camp experiences and retreat options to keep your family entertained and engaged, no matter what time of the year it is. With its extensive program, your children can have an unforgettable camping experience whenever it fits into your family's schedule. Camp Chrysalis is designed to be a second home, featuring modern cabins with climate control for optimum comfort. These cabins are conveniently located near a large playing field where children can freely run around and play. The camp also features a shaded sports court, a challenging ropes course, a rejuvenating swimming pool, and much more. This variety of recreational activities ensures that families have numerous options to choose from during their stay at Camp Chrysalis.