Aerial Arts

Aerobics

Aikido

Archery

Art & Crafts

Baseball

Basketball

Biking

Bilingual

Board Games

Boating/canoeing

Bowling

Boxing

Capoeira

Ceramics

Cheerleading

Chess

Coding/Programming

Cooking

Cricket

Dance

Drawing/Sketching

Drones

Embroidery

Entrepreneurship

Experiment

Exploration

Farming

Fencing

Field Hockey

Field Trips

Filmmaking

Fishing

Flag Football

Football

Futsal

Gaga Ball

Gardening

Glass work

Go-Karting

Gymnastics

Hapkido

Hiking

Hockey

Horse back

Ice Skating

Jewelry Making

Jiu jitsu

Judo

Karate

Kayaking

Kickboxing

Knitting

Kobudo

Krav Maga

Kung Fu

Lacrosse

Lazer Tag

Marathon

Math

Mini golf

Modeling

Muay Thai

Music

Music Therapy

Nature

Ninja

Occupational Therapy

Painting

Photography

Physical Therapy

Ping-Pong

Playing Instrument

Podcasting

Pottery

Printmaking

Reading

Religious service

Riflery

Robotics

Rock Climbing

Rope Course

Sailing

Scuba Diving

Sensory Play

Sewing

Skating

Sky Diving

Snorkelling

Soccer

Softball

Song Writing

Speech Therapy

Sportsfield activities

STEM/STEAM

Story Telling

Surfing

Swimming

Table Tennis

IL, short for Illinois, isn't just a flat state brimming with cornfields, folks. It is a magical land where rivers and lakes sparkle like giant sapphire necklaces strewn across the landscape. And in this wondrous place, there is a group of children who have discovered a unique way to explore - by canoe and boat! They call themselves the "S.S. Squiggle Squad," named after their mystical sea creature friend, Squiggle the two-tailed beaver. 

Squiggle, who wears a funky pair of neon sunglasses, is an expert in everything watery and adventure! He is always leading the troop in navigating the twists and turns of the mighty Mississippi, the gentle waves of Lake Michigan, and the serene beauty of the Illinois River. Armed with paddles, life jackets, and a hilarious sense of humor, the S.S. Squiggle Squad is always ready for a boating adventure.

These kids are no ordinary children. They're fearless explorers, brave sailors, and quick-thinking adventurers. When they are not out on the water, they are studying maps and planning new adventures. They know the rivers and lakes of Illinois like the back of their hands, and even the back of Squiggle's tail!

Their canoeing trips are filled with laughter, splashes and the occasional water fights, where no one is safe from a good soaking. They are not just friends; they are a family, bound together by their love for the water, the thrill of adventure, and of course, their hilarious mascot, Squiggle. Their tales are the stuff of Illinois legend, complete with giggles, gasps, and guffaws. They are the S.S. Squiggle Squad, the coolest kids in Illinois, where every day is a new adventure on the shimmering blue highways!

Inexpensive

Affordable

Moderate

Luxury

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.

Water activites

Swift Nature Camp

East Bay Camp & Retreat is the perfect destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in Central Illinois, only 12 miles north of Bloomington-Normal and a few minutes from Interstate 39, this beautiful retreat is situated on Lake Bloomington. With its attractive and functional facilities, East Bay provides the perfect setting for a range of activities such as team-building, fellowship, conferencing, and business. Adding to the enchanting atmosphere are the abundant wildlife sightings, including deer, wild turkeys, herons, and turtles. The 160-acre property is also home to a variety of hardwoods and evergreens, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.

Target sports

Zip Lining

East Bay Camp

DuBois Center, a United Church of Christ camp in rural Illinois, is the perfect place for your group to experience nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Our facilities are available to serve a variety of needs, whether your group is looking for a more rustic experience, something that feels like home, or something in between. We believe in the value of all of God's people, and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ability, national origin, religious background, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We strive to accommodate those with a variety of physical, mental, emotional, medical, or dietary needs to the best of our ability. With our wide range of offerings, DuBois Center is the ideal spot for your next group adventure!

DuBois Center

Do you want to give your daughter a summer to remember? Send her to Camp Kupugani and watch her grow and learn with kids from all over the world. Located near Chicago, Illinois, Camp Kupugani is an inclusive multicultural camp that will provide your daughter with the opportunity to connect and appreciate children from all kinds of backgrounds. From Hispanic/Latine to White/Caucasian and Black/African American, Camp Kupugani celebrates diversity and encourages an atmosphere of understanding.

Make this summer a special one for your daughter and send her to Camp Kupugani. She will be surrounded by kids from all over the world, learning about cultural appreciation and understanding. At Camp Kupugani, we strive to provide an environment where children can learn and grow together, regardless of their race, background, or country. From Hispanic/Latine to White/Caucasian and Black/African American, your daughter will have the opportunity to make new friends and gain new perspectives.

Camp Kupugani

At Fox Valley Youth, our vision is to ensure that all 46,000 youth in the area have access to a local church. We believe that spending time in a Christ-centered environment can be life-transforming. That's why we offer free overnight summer camps for youth to have the opportunity to learn more about Jesus and themselves.

During the school year, our Teen Night Together (TNT) program and after-school clubs provide weekly support for teens and grade school children throughout the school year. We believe that the combination of our summer and school year programs will result in the greatest growth for all of our youth. 

We are committed to our mission of helping local youth in the Fox Valley, and we firmly believe that the best way to do that is to provide them with a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. We look forward to seeing the results of our efforts in the coming years.

Fox Valley Christian Action

Our travelers often come back with a better understanding of the world and the people in it. They are more aware of their global context and the need to make a difference. Through their service and stewardship of the natural world, our travelers learn to appreciate and respect the beauty of the places they visit. 

We strive to make a lasting impact on our travelers. We believe that the experiences we provide have the power to change young people’s lives. We are passionate about giving our travelers the opportunity to not only explore the world but also to make a meaningful impact on the places they visit. We want them to gain the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to help make the world a better place.

The Road Less Traveled

At Camp Nageela Midwest, children from all walks of life come together to create a special environment for Jewish youth to develop meaningful relationships with one another and have fun. Campers will learn what it means to be a leader in the Jewish community while learning important life skills such as communication, problem solving, and teamwork. Camp activities include sports, swimming, music, drama, art, and more.

Parents Magazine is proud to feature Camp Nageela Midwest, an organization dedicated to helping young Jews build strong, affiliated, and proud identities. Located just an hour from Chicago and conveniently located near O'Hare and Midway airports, children of all backgrounds come together to create a vibrant and welcoming community. Here, campers learn what it means to be a leader while participating in activities such as sports, swimming, music, drama, art and more. Camp Nageela Midwest helps to empower youth to discover their hidden talents and develop them in the service of others, creating everlasting friendships and community along the way.

Camp Nageela

At Camp Ondessonk, we believe that learning should be exciting and memorable. Our Outdoor and Environmental Education programs provide experiences that are sure to stay with students for a lifetime. Our programs serve as a unique and powerful way to reinforce curricular topics in a fun and engaging way. We provide students with the opportunity to explore the natural environment and to develop an appreciation of the interdependence of the living world. Our programs also emphasize the importance of developing relationships with others and promote personal growth and self-esteem. Camp Ondessonk is committed to providing exceptional outdoor adventures year-round that will have a lasting impact on all who participate.

Camp Ondessonk

Camp Shaw has been around for 75 years and we are proud of our rich history. We strive to continue our camp traditions while also introducing new activities and opportunities for our campers. From archery to swimming, from nature hikes to arts and crafts, we have something for everyone. Our campers will gain lifelong skills and have a great time doing it. We are so proud to be part of their summer adventures!

Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See

At Camp Ben Frankel, we focus on creating a lifetime of memories for Jewish children of all backgrounds. Our leadership and staff are experienced and highly trained in providing a safe, welcoming camp environment, and we’re proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. We strive to meet and exceed the expectations of our campers, parents, and staff. During the summer of 2021, we reopened our in-person camp and experienced no cases of Covid. 

In 2020, we launched CBF Online, our virtual summer camp program. It quickly gained recognition from the Jewish Telegraph Agency, The Forward, The Telegraph (UK), the St. Louis Jewish Light, and eJewishPhilanthropy. We partner with organizations like the Foundation For Jewish Camp, JCamp180, Jewish Camps USA, Life and Legacy, and Jewish Federations across the country to better serve our community. We are proud to have been presented with the JCamp180 Outstanding Board Leadership Award in October 2020.

At Camp Ben Frankel, our mission is to provide a lifetime of memories to Jewish children from all backgrounds. We create an inclusive and welcoming environment that invites exploration of identity. Our staff are trained in safety protocols, and we use best-practices, strategic partnerships, and an open-minded approach to develop programs and activities that meet our high standards. We are thrilled to have been able to offer both in-person and virtual camp in 2021 and look forward to continuing to provide high-quality programming for years to come.

Camp Ben Frankel

Camp Widjiwagan, located six miles south of Springfield, is the perfect destination for your family’s next adventure! This 67-acre camp facility features a 40-foot climbing tower and zip line, three main lodges, an in-ground swimming pool, lake access for boating, platform tents, covered wagons, and an arts and crafts shack.

Parents, you can rest assured that your kids are in good hands at Camp Widjiwagan. Every activity is carefully supervised and the facility is American Camp Association (ACA) accredited. Swimming, canoeing, creative arts, outdoor living skills, archery, and environmental education are just some of the exciting programming on offer.

Make memories that will last a lifetime at Camp Widjiwagan! With its stunning location on Lake Springfield and plethora of activities, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.

Camp Widjiwagan

oregon

Welcome, craft enthusiasts, to the Crafts Zone! This is your gateway to a world where creativity meets learning. With our specially designed crafting sessions, we aim to cater to not just your artistic side, but also your intellectual curiosity. We dedicate 20% of our sessions to learning, so you can always stay updated with the latest crafting techniques.

Get ready to create and network as these form the bulk of our sessions, a whopping 70%! You'll have plenty of opportunities to bring your imaginative ideas to life and also meet fellow craft lovers. Enjoy the shared experience of creating something beautiful while making friends who share your passion. 

And let's not forget about relaxation! At Crafts Zone, 10% of our time is devoted to unwinding. Crafting can be therapeutic, and we believe in the power of creativity to relieve stress. So, come and enjoy the tranquil, artistic atmosphere. Don't forget to take a look at our upcoming workshops. With Crafts Zone, let the creative journey begin!

Crafts Zone

At LOMC, we are deeply grateful to honor and recognize the Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Hoocąk (Ho-Chunk), Myaamia, Sauk/Meskwaki, Peoria, Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo) peoples who have been living on the ancestral homelands of the Rock River Valley for generations. We are also thankful to all our Indigenous siblings who have and continue to care for this land and call it their home. 

LOMC is a ministry of the ELCA congregations in Illinois. Our 600+ acre site in the Rock River Valley of Northwestern Illinois is the focal point for summer camping programs for children and youth, as well as a variety of retreats and conferences throughout the year. 

At LOMC, we are committed to the long-term stewardship of the Rock River Valley and acknowledge the Indigenous people who have been living here for generations. We are grateful for their ongoing care and reverence of this land and are humbled to honor and recognize them.

best boating-canoeing programs in Oregon, IL

Crafts Zone

Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center