In the tiny, quaint state of Connecticut, tucked away in the northeast corner of the United States, a group of adventurous kids have discovered a love for one of the most thrilling water sports - surfing! In a place far better known for its autumn leaves and historical significance than its beaches, these daring kiddos are making waves and turning heads. The hero of our tale is Seaweed Sam, an impossibly cool teenager with a shock of green hair (from too much time spent in the ocean, of course) leading the pack. Sam, with his trusty surfboard "Salty," is the unofficial king of Connecticut's surfing scene. His zest for life and infectious laughter make every surfing session feel like the ultimate beach party. These Connecticut kids, including Seaweed Sam, are as unique as they come, defying the stereotype that surfing is only for sun-kissed Californians. They surf in all seasons, bravely battling the icy Atlantic waters even when winter approaches and everyone else is bundling up with hot cocoa. Clad in wetsuits thicker than a bear's fur, they ride the chilly waves with ease, embodying the spirit of a true New Englander. And when they're not on their boards, they can be found huddling around a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing tales of their surfing exploits, each story wilder and more exciting than the last. So, if you ever find yourself in Connecticut, be sure to keep an eye out for Seaweed Sam and his gang. You can't miss them- they're the ones making a splash and having a whale of a time on the Connecticut coastline!
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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 Gather New Haven, we are dedicated to promoting justice and equity for both people and our environment. We were formed in 2020 through the merger of New Haven Farms and New Haven Land Trust. Our Camp Groups have their own designated gathering spaces both indoors and outdoors, and when the weather is unfavorable, we are currently in talks with the Sound School to secure additional indoor space. To ensure the safety of our campers, counselors and staff, Gather New Haven has strict mask-wearing protocols. When the weather is favorable, indoor time will be limited and masks are required for both kids and adult counselors. Staff members must also wear masks at all times. We are grateful to be able to provide our campers with a safe and equitable environment where they can learn, grow, and have fun. Through our dedication to justice and equity, we are able to ensure that our campers and staff are able to enjoy a safe and healthy environment.