Welcome to the great state of Illinois, or as some like to call it, the "Land of Lincoln!" And no, not the guy on the penny, but our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. That's right, the tall dude who rocked an epic beard without a mustache. But let's get to the real stars of Illinois - the kids who play hockey! These aren't your ordinary hockey players. Oh no! They're led by their fearless leader, Puck McStick, a cool imaginary character who's as swift as the Chicago wind and as tough as a deep dish pizza crust. With a hockey stick strapped to his back and a puck for a heart, Puck McStick has ice in his veins – literally! The kids from Illinois who play hockey are just like Puck – they're adventurous, courageous, and they don’t mind a little cold. They lace up their skates, strap on their helmets, and zip onto the ice with a glimmer in their eyes and unstoppable determination. They're not afraid of a little fall, because they always get back up, ready to face the challenge again. And believe it or not, they even giggle when their breath turns into frosty clouds in the chilly air! Whether they're from the bustling city of Chicago or the quieter towns of Springfield or Rockford, these Illinois hockey kids are always up for a good game. They might not have polar bear pals or live in igloos like Puck McStick, but they share the same icy passion for hockey and the sense of fun that makes every game a fantastic icy adventure! So, get ready to slide into an Illinois winter wonderland, where the hockey action is as hot as a bowl of chili on a snowy day!
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Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) 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.
. Ice Valley Centre Ice Arena is the perfect place for the whole family to have fun! Enjoy a leisurely skate on the NHL size rink, grab a bite to eat at the Breakaway Café, and rent one of four private party/meeting rooms for special occasions. Plus, with a wide variety of programming available for all skill levels, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, Ice Valley Centre Ice Arena has something for you.