In the grand kaleidoscope of states that comprise the United States of America, Illinois sits proudly as a sparkling gem. A symphony of nature, cities, farms, and rivers, she gleams with the charm of the Midwest, a crown set with the gleaming jewel of Chicago. The kids of Illinois, especially those who participate in Nature activities, aren't just ordinary kids - oh, no, they're something far more adventurous! Meet our hero, a dapper raccoon named Racket. Racket, with his bandit-masked eyes and bushy tail, is as spunky as a summer thunderstorm, and just as electrifying. He's a charming rogue, always ready to guide our brave Illinoisan kids on their explorations. From the wild prairies of the south, where nature whispers ancient stories through the tall, swaying grass, to the secret corners of the Shawnee Forest, where trees older than time itself stand tall, Racket and the kids seek adventures. And boy, do they find them! They go bug hunting, canoeing on gleaming rivers, and stargazing in the clear, country nights, giggling at constellations with funny names like "Boötes" (which, by the way, Racket always mispronounces as "Booties" just to make them laugh). Imagine a group of kids, cheeks flushed with excitement, rosy from both the exertion and the cold, as they embark on a winter hike through Starved Rock State Park. There’s Racket, leading the way, slipping and sliding in the snow in a way that makes everyone chuckle. In the state of Illinois, every day is a new adventure, and every child is a brave explorer, and every raccoon? Well, he just might be the coolest guide you've ever met!
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For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.
, the North Shore Country Day School Summer Programs offers a unique experience. Mac McCarty, Director of the McKinney Camp and employed by the School, proposed the idea of the School having its own day camp. This enabled the School to provide use of its facilities to neighborhood families and offer children a safe and fun summer experience. The School offers a variety of activities such as boating, swimming lessons, tennis, outdoor activities and gymnastics. Mr. McCarty's idea of a day camp within the School's grounds has been a great success and continues to provide families with a variety of summer adventures.
Pam wanted to create something special for young children and their families. She was inspired by existing outdoor preschool programs and wanted to create an experience that would be a magical morning for parents and children, with an emphasis on unplugging and connecting with the natural world. So, with her passion for nature and her expertise on healthy life styles for children, Pam founded the Tiny Treks program. Tiny Treks is a unique outdoor preschool program that builds on Pam's vision of providing a magical morning for parents and children. With her knowledge and commitment to nature and healthy living, Pam has created a curriculum that is both fun and stimulating for Tiny Treks participants. Pam also provides parents with a flexible make-up policy, the ability to bring babies to class, and on special occasions, school-age siblings with days off.