In the whimsical and somewhat wacky world of Wisconsin, there exists a unique species of children, known as The Swimming Sprites of the Dairyland. These fun-loving, cheese-admiring kids are no ordinary beings. They are extraordinary aquatic athletes, swishing and splashing their way through the sapphire-blue waters of the state's abundant lakes and pools. Now, you might be picturing these swimming sprites as little mermaids and mermen with fish tails instead of legs. But here's the cheesy twist - these kids have legs, alright, but they're as nimble as a fish, breaking through the water faster than a jackrabbit on a pogo stick! The life of a Swimming Sprite begins at the crack of dawn. With a hearty breakfast of Wisconsin's finest cheese curds and a swig of milk, they dive right into their morning swim practice, slicing through the water like a hot knife through butter. The most famous of these Swimming Sprites is a kid named Chuck. Chuck, the Cheddar Champion, is the fastest, the wittiest, and the cheesiest of them all. With goggles as big as his dreams and a buoyant spirit that can't be sunk, he zips through the water like a torpedo. His secret power? He swears it's the delicious, power-packed Wisconsin cheddar cheese! And so, in the state where cows are celebrated, cheese is a staple, and the Green Bay Packers are almost a religion, the Swimming Sprites of the Dairyland are having a splash of a time. With their chlorine-scented hair, their laughter echoing across the water, and their hearts filled with the joy of the swim, they're the coolest kids in Wisconsin's waters!
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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.
For over 115 years, COA's Camp Helen Brachman has been providing transformative camp experiences for Milwaukee's youth. The camp's trained counselors create a nurturing and supportive environment where children can explore the wonders of nature, try new activities, and make lifelong friends. Campers can enjoy summer camp, family camp, and winter camp sessions throughout the year. Camp Helen Brachman is the longest-serving camp in Wisconsin's history and offers a unique 206-acre facility with Pickerel Lake located at the center. The camp also features many other amenities such as hiking trails, a main lodge, a library, cabins, sports fields, and basketball courts.