Welcome to the wacky, cheese-loving land of Wisconsin, where you can't swing a bratwurst without hitting a friendly face or a towering pine tree! The kids here are as diverse as the cheese varieties, each one unique, yet bound together by their love for the wonderfully wobbly world of Judo. Meet our cool imaginary character, Bucky Badger, not your typical badger, mind you! He's a black and white, cheese-chompin' judo champ with a wicked sense of humor. Bucky, with his infectious laugh and intense judo chop, is the quirky hero of every Wisconsin kid who dreams of becoming a Judo master. Wisconsin kids are known for their robust spirit and hearty hellos. They leap into Judo with the same gusto they display while constructing colossal cheese sculptures. Their energy is as endless as Wisconsin's sprawling farmlands, which they channel into perfecting their judo throws, sweeps, and holds. Don't be fooled by their cheese-loving, nature-hugging exterior - these kids are as tough as the Green Bay Packers' defense line. Aided by Bucky, they transform from giggling, cheese-curd tossing tykes to focused judo warriors, ready to tip, toss, and tumble their way to victory. Bucky's secret training? Making them laugh so hard they forget they're scared of falling! You'll find Wisconsin kids practicing judo everywhere - in the garages, on the lawns, even in barns! They turn every corner of the state into a judo dojo. And after each session, they gather around Bucky, rosy-cheeked and laughing, ready to share a chunk of Wisconsin's finest cheese and listen to Bucky's cheesy jokes. Indeed, in the land of endless cheese, fierce badgers, and flip-tumbling fun, judo isn't just a sport. It's a way of life!
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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.
For more than 130 years, the YMCA of the Fox Cities has been a cornerstone of the Fox Valley community. It has been dedicated to promoting Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility through its six branches. From Apple Creek YMCA to Valley Tennis Center, the YMCA of the Fox Cities offers a variety of social activities and services, both physical and mental. The Appleton YMCA, Heart of the Valley YMCA, Fox West YMCA, Neenah-Menasha YMCA, Ogden YMCA, and Valley Tennis Center provide a wide range of amenities that are designed to strengthen the community. This includes everything from swimming and group fitness classes to sports teams and youth development programs. In addition to the six branches, the YMCA of the Fox Cities also owns and operates YMCA Camp Nan A Bo Sho, a 40 acre overnight camp on the shores of Waubee Lake near Lakewood, Wisconsin. Here, children and families can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities from swimming and fishing to archery and zip lining. YMCA Camp Nan A Bo Sho is the perfect place for families to connect and create lasting memories.