Once upon a time, in the enchanting state of Michigan, lived a jolly, old, green-thumbed gnome named Muddy Boots. His heart was as vast as the Great Lakes that surged along the state's edges, and his laughter echoed through the dense, glorious forests that were home to countless, spellbinding creatures. Muddy Boots, with his twinkling blue eyes, was a nature maestro. He wore a cap made from the leaf of a sugar maple - Michigan's state tree - and his round belly jiggled like a bowlful of Michigan cherry jelly. Muddy Boots loved the Michigan kids, those exuberant bunch of nature enthusiasts who roamed the woods, fields, and shores, exploring the magic of their Great State. Their laughter and joy were the sweetest music to his long, pointy ears. They'd hunt for Petoskey Stones, the state stone, along the shorelines, their eyes sparkling with excitement at each find. They'd hike through the bountiful forests, their footsteps echoing the heartbeat of the wild. It was a sight that could make even a grumpy old troll grin! These kids were like little hummingbirds, flitting from one activity to another. Canoeing in the crystal clear waters, fishing for the elusive Michigan Trout, or simply lying under the sky, counting the stars. They even had a special tradition of a heartwarming campfire gathering, where they would share stories and roast marshmallows, their laughter echoing under the starlit Michigan sky. With mischief in their eyes and adventure in their hearts, they'd follow Muddy Boots everywhere, learning to respect and love nature, just as he did. And at the end of each day, they'd return to their homes, their hearts filled with the magic of Michigan and the wisdom of their dear friend, Muddy Boots.
Read morebest nature programs in Roscommon, MI
The Happy Hive is an inclusive play space designed to spark joy and connection for every child. With a special focus on comfort and accessibility for neurodivergent kids, our environment welcomes children of all abilities to explore, move, and create at their own pace. From climbing walls, swings, and zip lines to dedicated zones for pretend play and art, The Happy Hive offers both high-energy fun and creative outlets. While we cater to children ages 1-13 for neurotypical kids, we have no age limit when it comes to kids with special needs—because play should have no boundaries. At The Happy Hive, we believe every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.
At Camp Westminster we provide a safe, Christian environment where campers can explore, discover, and even make mistakes. At Camp Westminster on Higgins Lake, we believe in the power of nature to shape and strengthen young hearts and minds. Our rustic camp and year-round retreat center in northern Michigan provide a unique opportunity to unplug, explore, and learn in a safe and nurturing environment. We strive to create an atmosphere of joy and self-discovery, and we hire a diverse and fun staff who are committed to each camper's development and spiritual formation. At Camp Westminster, we are also passionate about earth care. We use the "Leave No Trace" ethic at the camp and on all of our outdoor excursions, teaching our campers the importance of sustainability and respect for our planet. We help foster independence, resilience, and life skills, while also providing a Christ-centered atmosphere where campers can grow in their faith. We believe that Camp Westminster gives young people the chance to make lasting memories and build long-lasting relationships that will stay with them for many years to come. We strive to create an experience for campers that is both fun and challenging, allowing them to be themselves and learn in a supportive and encouraging setting.