In the jolly, jiggling jellybean-shaped state of Ohio, nestled between the lively Lake Erie and the rollicking rivers, you'll find the most adventurous, paddle-wielding kids. These aren't your typical landlubbers, no siree! Each one of them is an elite member of the Buckeye Boating Brigade, or as they are more commonly known, the BBB. At the helm of this swashbuckling squadron is a wonderfully wacky walrus named Wally. Wally wears water-proof, waffle-patterned Wellington boots and a whimsically wide-brimmed hat. His walrus mustache wiggles with every word and whistle. Quite a sight, isn't he? He's the one who teaches Ohio's kids the ABCs of boating and canoeing. Astonishing balance, brave canoeing, and careful coordination, that's the BBB mantra! Every day, come rain or shine, Wally and the kids would whisk away in their wondrous wooden canoes. They’d zig and zag down the Ohio River, making the water ripple and giggle beneath them. The children's laughter could be heard echoing across the waterways, turning the heads of the resident river otters and making the fish wriggle with excitement. Folks, these are no ordinary children, these are Ohio’s brave boating kids! They enjoy their great state’s waters with a zeal that could put a river otter to shame! They have learned the magic of balance, the thrill of speed, and the joy of laughter on the water. And leading them all, with a flip and a flop and a hearty "Wah-Wah-Wally-Walrus", is the coolest, goofiest, funniest creature you've never met, Wally the Walrus. So, grab your paddles, kiddos, it's time to join the Buckeye Boating Brigade!
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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.
At our facility, we recognize that each guest has their own unique goals for their visit, and our mission is to help them reach those goals. From helping each one to challenge themselves, to providing an environment where they can disconnect from the digital world and make new friends, we are committed to providing a memorable experience for each and every guest. We also value the importance of reconnecting with colleagues and building new relationships, and are dedicated to making sure that each visit is tailored to the individual needs of our guests.