Wisconsin Science & Nature Summer Camp

Name: Swift Nature Camp: Wisconsin Animal & Nature Summer Camp
Location: Swift Nature Camp

The Summer Your Animal Lover Will Finally Feel at Home

Do you have a "critter collector" in your family? You aren't alone. Many children prefer exploring a creek to a football field, and searching for frogs to scoring goals. But finding a summer camp that is truly hands-on with animals—one that embraces the child who isn't a "typical jock"—can be a challenge.

At Swift Nature Camp (SNC), we’ve been the premier Wisconsin Animal Science Summer Camp since the 1960s. We aren't a "mega-camp." We are a small, intentional community where children who love nature don't just fit in—they lead.

A Note from Lonnie: The "Camp Mom" Perspective

"I often hear parents say, 'I never knew a place like this existed.' As a Director, that’s my favorite thing to hear. I see so many kids who are quiet or 'different' at school flourish the moment they walk into our Nature Center. Here, being the kid who knows everything about lizards makes you a rockstar. We focus on kindness and responsibility, ensuring that every child—especially our first-timers—feels safe enough to step out of their comfort zone and into their own greatness."

Why SNC is the Top Choice for Wisconsin Parents

We know you have many options for Wisconsin Summer Camps, but here is why 92% of our campers return to us year after year:

The "Bring Your Pet" Policy: We are one of the only camps in the Midwest that allows your child to bring their small animal from home.
Adopt-a-Pet Program: Campers can "adopt" a camp pet for the summer. It’s not all play—they learn the responsibility of feeding, watering, and caring for their creature before their own playtime starts.
Small by Design: Because we aren't a giant facility, we provide the individual attention your child needs. Our 1st Timer Camp is specifically designed to help kids overcome homesickness through engagement and care.
Hands-on Science (No Textbooks!): From our legendary Frog Hunts to DNR-sponsored nature programs, we teach through the senses. When children play outdoors in nature with animals, they develop a lifelong respect for the environment.

More Than Just Animals: 22+ Activities

While the animals bring them here, the friendships and adventures keep them coming back. Our days are packed with high-energy fun and skill-building:

Land Activities: Archery, Gaga Ball, Pickel Ball, Hikes, Games, Team Course
Water Activities: Swimming, Canoeing, Fishing, Kayaking, Sailing, Tubing
Special Activities: Lego, Arts & Crafts, Camp Petting Zoo, Nature Center
Adventure Trips: Canoeing and Hiking overnight trips

Parents and campers alike feel comfortable knowing camp is in Wisconsin and only a few hours from Madison, WI. Plus we even have a Motor Coach that brings campers to camp. Our proximity makes visiting on a weekend for lunch a great way to check in with your camper. Parents are sometimes surprised when campers already have other plans, like playing outside, catching fish, or caring for furry critters, but they are always happy to give you a tour.

We help children feel comfortable in their new surroundings, giving them the independence to do so even if being away from home or spending lots of time outdoors is still new to them.

Animals are at the Heart of the Experience

Animals are just one of the many reasons why campers love Swift Nature Camp. Each summer children enjoy adopting a pet and taking care of it. We teach that pets are not all fun and games—they must be responsible enough to feed, water, and care for pets before any of their own playtime begins. Responsibility comes first.

Parents, does your child have a pet you don't want to care for while your camper is at SNC? No problem. We are one of the few camps that allows children to bring their animals with them to summer camp. That's what makes us a true Wisconsin Animal Summer Camp.

Convenience for Your Family

Located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin, we are just a few hours from Madison, WI. To make things even easier, our private Motor Coach can bring campers directly to our gates.

We encourage parents to do weekend visits. While parents are sometimes a little sad to find their child is too busy catching fish or caring for a furry friend to give a long goodbye, they are always happy to see the independence and confidence their child has gained.

Ready to Join the Swift Nature Camp Family?

Don’t let your child be just another number at a mega-camp. Let them be a leader in our nature-loving community.

Parents can learn more about this Overnight Wisconsin Animal Camp, discover how we encourage children to be more responsible, accountable, and kinder, and explore the cool activities, friendships, and animals that make SNC so special.

Hope to see you at Swift Nature Camp.

Owners: Lonnie & Jeff Lorenz

📞 630-654-8036
www.SwiftNatureCamp.com
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Swift Nature Camp is an Overnight Summer Kids Camp with an exclusive "First Timer Camp" especially designed for younger campers who have never been to sleepaway camp before. This program is so successful over 92% wish to return to SNC.

Special First Timer Camp
1, 2,3 & 6 weeks
Small Size
Non competitive
Science, Nature, Animals
Water & Land Activities
Canoe & Hiking Trips
Non-denominational

Parents, at SNC we use Adventure, Learning and Kindness all in a Natural setting to promote each child's personal development. Campers tell us, that our nurturing atmosphere gives them confidence to make friends easily and to try new activities. Yet most rewarding is hearing that SNC allows each camper to truly be themselves. When your SNC camper returns home more Responsible, Resilient and Kinder you will know your decision to send your child to SNC was the right one.