best nature programs in Wilmington, NC

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.

Wilmington’s Department of Parks and Recreation is committed to helping city residents live their best lives. By offering high-quality programming and maintaining its parks and facilities, the department provides a range of opportunities for recreational, social, cultural, employment, and educational activities. The Department of Parks and Recreation is dedicated to promoting holistic well-being for its residents. From offering parks and recreational facilities to providing educational and employment opportunities, the department is working to ensure all city residents have access to the resources they need to thrive. The City of Wilmington Department of Parks and Recreation is an invaluable asset in the community, providing a wide variety of services that support the health and wellbeing of its residents. From maintaining parks and facilities to offering recreational, social, cultural, employment, and educational activities, the department is committed to helping city residents live their best lives.

At our family owned and operated company, we believe in setting the bar high when it comes to risk management, staff training, curriculum, and ocean fun. We take great pride in what we do and strive to be the best in our field. It is because of our dedication and commitment to excellence that we have become the most recommended camp of our kind. Our mission is simple: to make sure our guests have the best possible experience and to ensure that our campers know the importance of surfing responsibly. We ensure that all of our staff are properly trained and have the necessary skills to make sure that everyone is safe and having a great time.

To achieve this, we offer a variety of programs that introduce children to the wonders of nature and get them outside to explore. The Nature Connect mission is to help children establish a lifelong connection with nature and its many benefits. With the rise in technology use, it's increasingly important to get kids away from screens and back to nature. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can lead to a range of positive changes in children, including increased attention span, improved self-esteem, and enhanced problem-solving skills. At Nature Connect, we strive to foster a love of nature in kids by providing programs and activities that allow them to explore and appreciate their natural environment. We also believe that these experiences will lead to stronger social connections between children and a greater understanding of the importance of environmental stewardship. Ultimately, our goal is to provide children with the tools and opportunities to develop a deep bond with nature, resulting in lifelong curiosity, compassion, and connection. We believe that such an understanding and appreciation of the natural world is essential for a healthier, happier future.

At Sea Turtle Camp, we believe that a summer camp experience should be something special. We strive to create an environment that is both educational and fun, where campers can learn about and appreciate the ocean and its inhabitants. Our knowledgeable team of marine biologists and instructors offer engaging and interactive activities, designed to give campers an unforgettable experience. At Sea Turtle Camp, we strive to foster a sense of stewardship and appreciation for the ocean, its inhabitants, and its delicate ecosystems. Campers can expect to gain confidence, make lasting friendships, and have the opportunity to learn more about the ocean and its inhabitants. We hope to inspire campers to become future conservationists and instill a lifetime of respect for the ocean and its inhabitants.

Hot Mess Studios offers so much for families looking for a day filled with adventure and creativity. Located just a block away from the beach, you can spend the day enjoying the sun, sand, and surf before getting creative with pottery and art classes at the studio. Our little beach town has come a long way! Now, it’s a destination for families looking to explore and experience all that it has to offer. Not only are there fantastic food, shopping, and activities, but the nearby Hot Mess Studios provides a unique opportunity to create something special. Whether you’re looking for a fun day at the beach or a creative outlet, Hot Mess Studios has it all. With just a short walk to the shore and plenty of activities in the studio, you’re sure to find something to keep everyone entertained. Plus, you’ll be able to take home a special keepsake of your day at the beach.

At our museum, we recognize that young minds need stimulation and exploration to develop. We offer a safe, clean, and inviting environment for children and their caregivers to explore and learn together. With interactive exhibits and weekly programs, children can experience the joy of learning and discovery. We don’t simply provide a space for learning and play; we strive to be a catalyst for neighborhood and community engagement. We collaborate with local institutions and organizations to create dynamic partnerships that help amplify the positive impact of our museum. We believe that working together with our community can bring out the best in our world. Finally, we aspire to be a place of possibility and hope. We strive to be a place that celebrates the natural curiosity of children and encourages them to explore and discover. We want to be a part of your child’s journey and help create memories and moments that will last a lifetime.

At AR Workshop Wilmington, parents can find the perfect place to create custom home decor with their hands. From shop to workshop, the facility provides a range of services to help craft charming, unique decor pieces. Founded by Maureen Anders and Adria Ruff, the business grew from a comprehensive design company to a DIY studio with more than 125 franchises across the country. In the beginning, Maureen and Adria offered services such as graphic design, party styling, DIY blog, and an online shop. It wasn't long before fans asked for in-person workshops, and the pair answered the call with AR Workshop in 2016. Now, parents can bring their children to the store and create special homemade pieces that can be used as gifts or decor pieces at home. With the help of strategic franchise partnerships, AR Workshop continues to grow and expand.