Once upon a time, in the grinning green landscapes of Vermont, nestled in the heart of its maple syrup forests and surrounded by its famous dairy farms, there was a group of kids known as the "Vermont Vortex". They were not your everyday children; they were the most daring daredevils of the deep, the swiftest swimmers of the state, and the bravest backstrokers of the bunch! Vermont, lovingly referred to as the "Green Mountain State", was not a place for the faint-hearted. The days were filled with adventures, from climbing its towering mountains to swimming in its crystal-clear lakes! And it was in these refreshing waters that you'd find the Vermont Vortex, splashing, diving, and championship-winning their way into everyone's hearts. Our story begins with the funniest member of the Vortex, a boy named Larry the Lively Lobster. Larry didn't possess any lobster-like qualities, except for his bright red hair and his incredible ability to swim, of course. His laughter was as infectious as the rippling waves they swam through. He was known for his silly antics and practical jokes, which often included a rubber duck, a snorkel, and a swim cap that looked suspiciously like a shower cap. He would flip, flop, and weave through the water, leaving in his wake a splash of giggles. Yes, my friends! The state of Vermont was more than its sweet syrup and delicious cheese. It was a place where kids like Larry and the rest of the Vermont Vortex could dive into life's adventures... one hilarious swim stroke at a time! So, let's put on our goggles, flippers, and don't forget that shower cap, as we dive into the aquatic escapades of the Vermont Vortex!
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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.
For nearly a century, Killooleet has been a beloved summer camp for children and teens in Hancock, Vermont. Founded in 1927 by Margaret Bartlett and Toni Taylor, the camp has been owned and operated by the Seeger family for the past seventy years. John and Ellie Seeger first took the helm in 1948, and in 1998, they celebrated their 50th year of directorship by passing the business along to their daughter, Kate, and her husband, Dean Spencer. Nestled on 300 acres of serene landscape on the edge of the Green Mountain National Forest, Killooleet’s campus is a paradise for outdoor exploration. From the beautiful, flat grounds to the barn and private lake, the camp is the perfect place for kids and teens to explore, learn, and grow. Just twenty-five miles east of Middlebury and twenty-five miles south of Waitsfield, it’s easy for families to get to and from the camp. Killooleet has been providing a safe and supportive environment for children and teens to learn and grow for nearly a century. With its stunning grounds and nearby natural wonders, the camp is a perfect place for parents to send their kids for a summer of fun and adventure. Whether it’s a day hike through the Green Mountain National Forest or a swim in the private lake, Killooleet offers plenty of opportunities for kids to make memories that will last a lifetime.