Once upon a time, in the plump, cheese-loving state of Wisconsin, there was a group of kids who absolutely adored gardening. They were known as the "Cheesehead Green Thumbs," named after their state’s famous headgear and their love for all things green and growing. The state of Wisconsin, a land of lakes, farms, and bustling cities, was their beautiful canvas of adventure. Gardening wasn't just a hobby for these kids. They were the guardians of the garden, the champions of the chard, the defenders of the daisies, and most importantly, the buddies of the beetroot. Armed with their trusty trowels and playful spades, they braved the chilly spring mornings and the sizzling summer afternoons to tend to their beloved plants. Now, you might be wondering who led this gallant group. Well, let me introduce you to Wiggly Wally the Worm! Wally was no ordinary worm, he was a talking, oversized, purple worm with a green gardener's hat perched on his head. He would wriggle out of the soil every morning to share the latest gossips from the underground world. "Mr. Onion is crying again," or "Miss Carrot has a new orange dress," Wally would say, causing roars of laughter among the kids. Wally also had a knack for storytelling, and the children would gather around him, listening to the tales of heroic worms and fairytale vegetables. And it was Wally who taught the kids that gardening wasn’t just about growing plants, but also about nurturing friendships, respecting nature, and most importantly, laughing at Mr. Onion's jokes! So, for the Cheesehead Green Thumbs of Wisconsin, gardening was more than just a pastime, it was a magical journey filled with fun, laughter, and a whole lot of dirt!
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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.
At Camp Eagle Ridge, we also believe in healthy living skills. We prioritize physical activity, healthy eating, and outdoor education. We are dedicated to teaching our campers about the importance of nutrition, physical activity, and respecting the environment. We offer a variety of activities to help them grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Our campers learn to take ownership of their own health and wellbeing through experiences that build self-confidence and self-advocacy. Finally, we strive to build a sense of community responsibility. We believe in the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment that encourages our campers to be compassionate leaders. We teach our campers about the importance of being a part of the community and how to be respectful and responsible citizens. We focus on working together in a positive manner and learning how to be accountable for their actions. We provide our campers with the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their community and the world.