Top 10 Typical Staff Experiences at Swift Nature Camp

The Toughest Job You’ll Ever Love

Hi, I’m Lonnie, and I’ve been the Camp Director at Swift Nature Camp for over 30 years. Every summer, more than 100,000 college students across the country become camp counselors. They do it for many reasons—leadership experience, adventure, friendships, and because camp has a way of changing lives.

At Swift Nature Camp, we do things a little differently. We’re intentionally small, with a staff of about 20 people, which means you are seen, heard, and truly matter. When you join our team, you’re not just filling a role—you’re shaping a summer.

As we empower our Camp Kupugani campers, our staff experience just as much growth, challenge, fun, and transformation. Here’s what typically happens during a summer at Swift Nature Camp.

1. Seeing Kids Transform Right Before Your Eyes

At camp, it’s not if campers will change—it’s how. You’ll witness shy kids find confidence, nervous campers try new things, and friendships form in ways that amaze even veteran staff. You’ll feel the impact of your work every single day.

2. All-Camp Lake Parties

This is summer fun in its purest form—music, sunshine, laughter, and everyone together on the waterfront. These moments remind you why summer camp jobs are unlike any other job.

3. When a Camper Finally Opens Up

Camp can get deep. When a camper trusts you enough to share something personal—or just sit quietly with you—you realize how important your role truly is.

4. Day-Off Adventures with Fellow Staff

Days off turn into stories you’ll tell for years. Whether you explore Chicago, head to Freeport, or just relax by the lake, these shared adventures build lifelong bonds.

5. The Hug You’ve Been Waiting for All Session

There’s a moment when a camper finally feels safe enough to trust you—and sometimes that trust shows up as a big, heartfelt hug. Those moments never get old.

6. Learning About Other Cultures and Perspectives

Camp brings together people from different backgrounds and experiences. Come with an open mind, and you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the world—and yourself.

7. Gaining Confidence in Your Leadership

From staff training through the final day of camp, we intentionally help you grow as a leader. You’ll leave with stronger communication skills, confidence, and a clearer sense of who you are.

8. Enjoying the Beauty of Nature Every Day

The lake, the trees, the wildlife, the sunsets—and yes, even the bugs—become part of your daily life. Nature has a way of grounding you and recharging your spirit.

9. Making Friends for Life

There’s something special about camp friendships. After a summer full of shared challenges and laughter, you’ll likely leave with at least one new best friend.

10. Leaving Camp Changed

No one leaves camp the same person they were when they arrived. You’ll head home more confident, more capable, and more prepared to make a difference wherever life takes you next.

Why Swift Nature Camp?

Swift Nature Camp is an overnight summer camp in Wisconsin offering paid summer camp jobs and paid internships for college students. With our small staff team, you’ll gain real responsibility, real mentorship, and real impact.

If you’re looking for a summer camp counselor job, a college summer job, or a paid internship working with kids outdoors, this just might be the experience that changes your life.

The toughest job you’ll ever love.
— Lonnie
Camp Director, Swift Nature Camp (30+ Years)