Once upon a time in the quaint and charming state of Connecticut, also known as the Nutmeg State, nestled between the bustling cities of New York and Boston, there was a lively bunch of kids. Now, these kids were not your everyday, run-of-the-mill kids. Oh no! They were a spectacular crew, known far and wide as the "STEM Squad." This squad was a special group of kids who loved to tinker, experiment, and delve deep into the wonderful world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. That's right! Those big words were their playground, and they couldn't get enough of it! Now, let me introduce you to their fearless leader, Professor Quarky. Professor Quarky was an odd character with wild hair that stood up like he'd been electrocuted. He wore thick glasses that magnified his eyes to the size of saucers, and he always had a funny, crooked smile on his face. But what made him extraordinarily peculiar was his preference for polka-dot bow ties and neon socks that never matched! Under the eccentric leadership of Professor Quarky, the Connecticut "STEM Squad" constructed crazy machines, conducted explosive science experiments, and even created their own video games. They explored the depths of the Long Island Sound to study marine life and the heights of the Litchfield Hills to understand the science behind weather patterns. And they had enough fun to light up the whole state. The "STEM Squad" used to say, "In Connecticut, we don't just observe the world, we understand it!" And so, amidst the beautiful landscapes of Connecticut, the Nutmeg State, the curious minds of the "STEM Squad" continued to shape a brighter and fun-filled future.
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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.
Welcome to Bristol's Department of Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services! Our website is the perfect way to explore the amazing services, facilities, and programs we have to offer. We want to make sure our customers are able to access all of our offerings in an environmentally conscious way, so we now offer a convenient way to register for programs and memberships, as well as request fields, pavilions, and facilities, right through our website! We are always looking for ways to make it easier for our customers to connect with us, and our online registration system is just one example. Whether you're looking for a fun day at the park, a membership for the pool, or a great facility to host a special event, you can now find it all right here on our website. We're committed to providing a safe, healthy and sustainable environment for our community, and our “Go Green” initiative is just another way in which we're striving to do our part. We hope you take advantage of our online services and enjoy all of the great offerings we have available.
We strive to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us the most, to reach their full potential and become productive, caring, and responsible citizens. At our Summer Camp, we provide an engaging, enriching experience for youth entering grades 1-8 in the Fall. Our goal is to combine fun and structure to help young people develop their individual intellectual, social, and physical potential in a safe environment. We are committed to inspiring and supporting those who need us the most to reach their full potential and become productive, caring, and responsible citizens.
At ELCCT, we know the importance of hands-on learning experiences. That's why we offer a wide variety of experiential programs at Indian Rock Nature Preserve, the Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center, and schools throughout Connecticut. In fact, we annually provide environmental education programs to over 20,000 children and families from more than 70 Connecticut communities! But we don't stop there. ELCCT is also a land trust, dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Connecticut. We've already protected over 750 acres of land in Bristol, Burlington and Southington. By participating in our programs, you and your family can get hands-on educational experiences, while also helping to protect our environment for future generations. So come join us and make a difference!