Once upon a time, in the majestic state of Oregon, sandwiched between the rolling Pacific Ocean and the towering Cascade Mountains, a cheerful gang of kids embarked on an adventurous hike every weekend. Now, these weren't your ordinary kids, oh no! They were part of the "Oregon Chipmunk Squad," led by their fearless, furry leader, Chippy Chip! Chippy Chip, a lively, fast-talking chipmunk, didn't just love Oregon's famous hazelnuts, he adored the state's vast, lush forests and grand, sparkling rivers too. His eyes twinkled brighter than the evening stars when he saw the kids lacing up their hiking boots. "Alright, Chipmunks! The wild awaits!" he'd cheer, his bushy tail whisking with excitement. The chipmunk squad comprised of energetic kids from all over the state. There was Benny, the brave from Beaverton, who could talk to bees, and Lola, the fast from Forest Grove, who could outrun even the fastest squirrels. And let's not forget Daisy, the wise from Willamette Valley, who knew every leaf, every bird, and every pebble in Oregon. These kids were not just hikers; they were protectors of the wilderness, adventurous explorers, and best of all, a band of best friends. They enjoyed wandering through the whispering pine trees, climbing Oregon's rocky paths, and crossing over tinkling, crystal-clear streams. They loved the thrill of spotting a deer grazing quietly or a bird soaring high. And the laughter and stories shared in the soft glow of the campfire were unforgettable. With Chippy Chip at the helm, the Oregon Chipmunk Squad transformed their hiking adventures into epic tales of joy and discovery. Oregon, with its beautiful landscapes and thrilling paths, was their playground, and they wouldn't have had it any other way!
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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.
Most youth organizations talk about preparing kids for the future or future leadership positions. This is great, but we believe kids and teens are leaders now. They don't need to wait for the future to shape the world. We help youth be the best 7-year-old they can be or the best 17-year-old. We guide kids and teens of all ages to boost their confidence and unlock their potential so they can thrive—where they are now. Thrive{ology} is our research-based approach to teaching every kid or teen how to be a better friend, student, son, daughter, member of society, sister, brother...today. Every Camp Fire program across the country uses Thrive{ology} to teach youth to identify sparks, develop a growth mindset, learn goal management, and take time to reflect.