In the verdant state of VT, otherwise known as Vermont, nestled amidst towers of maple trees and rolling hills blanketed in the summer's green or winter's white, there thrived a special tribe of kids. Not just any ordinary kids, mind you. They were the valiant Vermont Vipers, a team of pint-sized baseball players with hearts as big as their fun-sized gloves. Their leader was an imaginary character, known as Sluggo the Squirrel. Sluggo didn’t have wings, but boy could he fly around the bases! He wasn’t your average squirrel, you see; he wore a baseball cap backwards, had a tiny baseball bat strapped to his back, and a colossal love for the great American pastime. Sluggo and the Vermont Vipers would meet every sunny afternoon at their sacred ground, a cozy baseball field tucked away in the heart of a maple forest. Their laughter echoed through the trees as they swung their bats with great vigor and chased after the balls with unyielding determination. Each kid believed that they were the next Babe Ruth or Mickey Mantle and that Sluggo was their secret weapon. He was always there, cheering them on from the sidelines, sometimes from atop a maple tree, sometimes from the benches. A whisper of a tail in the wind, a flicker of a furry ear behind a glove, and just like that, Sluggo made baseball incredibly fun and a little bit magical. In Vermont, baseball wasn’t just a game, it was an adventure. And with the Vermont Vipers and Sluggo the Squirrel at play, it was a spectacle that even the maples would sway to, rustling their leaves in applause.
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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 Lanakila, we strive to create lasting memories and relationships for our campers and staff. Our rustic setting allows for campers to explore and create lifelong skills, relationships, and memories. We believe in the power of the camp experience and have seen generations of campers and staff come together to form a close-knit community. We invite you to join us in the adventure and magic of Lanakila. Our campers learn the importance of teamwork, leadership, and independence while having fun and making memories. Through our activities and events, we create a safe and nurturing environment where campers build lasting relationships with each other and our experienced staff. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lanakila family!