Once upon a time, nestled between the glistening Great Lakes and the mighty Mississippi, was the enchanting state of Wisconsin, affectionately known as the Cheese Castle in the Sky. You see, this wasn't your ordinary state, it was a magical place where the rivers flowed with milk, the trees blossomed with cheese curds, and the friendly cows whispered in Moo-code. In this dairy delight, lived a peculiar but lovable character named Wattles the Wacky Wisconsinite, who adored two things: string cheese and STEM/STEAM activities. Wearing a cheesehead hat and glasses as sharp as cheddar, Wattles was a wizard of invention, a maestro of maths, a scholar of science, and an artist of astounding creativity. No child in Wisconsin would miss an opportunity to join Wattles in his wacky STEAM adventures. From building bubble-blowing robots to creating kaleidoscopes that could see into other dimensions, these kids were not just learners, they were inventors, problem solvers, and future leaders. They could interpret the whispers of Wisconsin's cows, calculating the trajectory of the moon using cheese curds, and paint masterpieces using only the colors of a sunset. These children were as diverse as they were brilliant, each bringing a unique flavor to their group just like the variety of cheese in their magical land. Whether they were from the bustling streets of Milwaukee or the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan, each kid was a slice of the Wisconsin wonder, contributing to the melting pot of ideas and inventions. Every day with Wattles and the Wisconsin whiz-kids was a new adventure, a comedy of errors, and a celebration of curiosity. And the magic of it all? It happened right here in the heart of America, in the Cheese Castle in the Sky - Wisconsin.
Read morebest stem-steam programs in Elkhorn, WI
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.
Lutherdale offers a unique opportunity to get away from it all in Southeastern Wisconsin. Here, visitors can enjoy waterfront activities, field games, archery, a farm, and more. With a 3-sided climbing tower and a low and high challenge course, there’s something for everyone. Our staff is dedicated to providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for youth, families, and adults. We offer a range of accommodation options, from cabin rentals to a hotel-style conference center. Explore our 52-acre campus near Elkhorn and experience all that Lutherdale has to offer.