As the Director of Swift Nature Camp for the past 30 years, one of the most valuable skills we nurture in our campers is resilience. In today’s world, it’s easy to shield kids from challenges, but at camp, we believe it’s okay for them to struggle and face obstacles. Why? Because resilience isn’t something we avoid tapping into; it’s something that grows stronger with use.

As parents, you’ve likely experienced moments where you were completely drained, unsure of what to do next. But somehow, resilience returned. It’s the same for children. at a traditiona overnight summer camp Whether it's overcoming homesickness, pushing through a tough canoe trip, or solving a disagreement with cabin mates, every challenge helps build their resilience. In the safe and supportive environment at Swift Nature Camp, your child will face these moments, but they’ll also learn how to bounce back stronger each time.

Resilience doesn’t just magically appear when life is easy. It comes from navigating the discomfort, from problem-solving, and from trying again after failure. Camp is the perfect setting for this type of growth. With guidance from our staff and the close-knit camp community, campers find new energy and fresh perspectives to tackle challenges. They discover that they *can* figure things out, that they *can* keep going.  Summer camps are a wonderful place for children to experience these situations without parent input. Campers grow in self-sufficency. 

So when your child comes home from camp and shares stories of struggles, know that it’s all part of the process, it is OK. It’s how they grow emotionally, develop grit, and build confidence in themselves. Resilience is a skill they’ll take with them long after camp ends, equipping them for life’s bigger challenges.

Warm regards,
Jeff Lorenz
Swift Nature Camp

At Swift Nature Camp in the picturesque Northwoods of Wisconsin, adventure and discovery await. Directed by the warm and welcoming duo, Lonnie and Jeff, this camp is a place where kids can experience nature at its best, creating lifelong memories and friendships along the way. Swift Nature Camp offers a range of exciting outdoor activities that immerse campers in the beauty and wonder of the wild.

Picture this: campers starting their day, heading out in nature with many adventuresome activities await, build forts in the forest, and explore the surrounding nature. At Swift, the focus is not just on play but on learning, conservation, and problem-solving. Kids learn to work together, whether it's navigating a canoe or planning an overnight camping trip under the stars.

The camp’s mission is to nurtures a love for the outdoors, fostering a deep appreciation for nature that campers carry with them for life. The activities at Swift include hiking, fishing, swimming, archery, & Lego, all designed to encourage campers to connect with the natural world. SNC has a Nature Center that has many small critters that campers can help care for during their stay.

Campers also learn valuable life skills—teamwork, leadership, and resilience—through activities like building shelters, campfire cooking, and even navigating obstacle courses. Swift Nature Camp believes in the importance of hands-on learning, where campers can challenge themselves physically and mentally while developing a strong sense of independence. And while they're busy playing and exploring, they’re also building confidence and making lasting friendships.

This Wisconsin Summer Camp, helps kids from across the country experience the outdoors, Swift Nature Camp opens its doors to children from all backgrounds, giving them the chance to experience a summer filled with nature, fun, and learning. Swift is also committed to keeping SNC an affordable summer camp, so families of all backgrounds can enjoy this incredible experience.

The importance of the outdoors is at the heart of Swift’s mission, which addresses conservation and community-building. Swift aims to inspire future generations of environmental stewards, ensuring that campers leave with a greater appreciation of the natural world and a desire to protect it.

As the summer comes to an end, campers leave Swift Nature Camp not only with unforgettable memories but kids at Swift find themselves yearning to return, year after year, to relive the magic of camp and deepen their connection to nature.

For families interested in a summer filled with adventure, exploration, and personal growth, Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place. Be sure to check out the photos and videos we’ve posted on our website www.SNC.Camp

The Rising Cost of Summer Camps: Why Swift Nature Camp Offers Affordable Excellence

Hello, parents!

Summer camp is a cherished tradition, offering children the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in a vibrant and supportive environment. However, the increasing cost of summer camps has become a significant concern for many families. As the owner of Swift Nature Camp, I've seen firsthand the impact of these rising costs and am committed to providing an affordable solution without compromising on quality.

-Nationwide Cost Study Highlights
A nationwide cost study by Summer Camp Hub revealed some eye-opening statistics:
Overnight camps: Average cost ranges from $175 to $325 per day.
Day camps: Average cost ranges from $70 to $120 per day.
These figures can be daunting, especially for families planning for multiple weeks of camp or sending more than one child.

-Swift Nature Camp: Affordable Excellence
At Swift Nature Camp, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to experience the joys of summer camp. That's why we offer an accredited overnight camp for as little as $125 per day. This significant saving means families can provide their children with a rich camp experience at a fraction of the cost compared to other camps.

-Why Choose Swift Nature Camp?
Affordable Rates: With our rates starting at $125 per day, families can save substantially. For example, a two-week overnight camp at the average rate of $250 per day would cost $3,500. At Swift Nature Camp, the same two-week experience would cost just $1,750, saving you $1,750!
Quality Programs: Despite our lower rates, we do not compromise on the quality of our programs. Our camp offers a variety of activities designed to promote personal growth, teamwork, and a love for nature.
Experienced Staff: Our team of dedicated and experienced counselors ensures that every child receives individual attention and guidance, fostering a supportive and nurturing camp environment.
Accreditation: We are proud to be an accredited camp, meeting the highest standards of safety and program quality. This ensures that your child is in a safe and enriching environment.

-The Value of Camp Savings
Choosing a more affordable camp like Swift Nature Camp doesn't mean sacrificing the quality of your child's summer experience. On the contrary, it means providing them with an enriching, educational, and fun-filled environment while also being mindful of your family's budget. This balance of cost and quality is essential for many families navigating the rising costs of summer camps.

-Make the Smart Choice for Summer Camp
If you're searching for camp savings, cheaper summer camp options, or simply the best value for your money, look no further than Swift Nature Camp. We are dedicated to providing an exceptional camp experience at a price that allows more families to participate.

Explore what Swift Nature Camp has to offer and discover why our affordable rates, high-quality programs, and commitment to excellence make us the ideal choice for your child's summer adventure.

Warm regards,

Jeff Lorenz

Director, Swift Nature Camp

OPEN HOUSE May 5th, 2024  / Oak Brook, Il,  

Join us for the Swift Nature Camp Meet & Greet event at Fullersburg Woods, 3609 Spring Rd. Oak Brook, IL, on May 5th at 1pm! This event is a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with our friendly staff and owners, ask any questions they may have about camp, and learn more about the exciting adventures awaiting campers at Swift Nature Camp. Whether you're new to camp or still exploring your options for the summer, our Meet & Greet is the perfect way to discover why Swift Nature Camp is the ideal choice for your child. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to find the perfect summer camp experience for your family!

Parents Learn More about Camp

Please come
Lonnie & Jeff
630-654-6036

As the director of Swift Nature Camp for nearly 30 years, I've witnessed the dilemma parents face when choosing among the myriad of summer camps available in the Midwest: Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota. They ponder whether their children should explore acting, delve into mathematics, hone basketball skills, or perhaps discover culinary talents or try a traditional overnight summer camp.

However, having been immersed in camp life for decades, I can attest to a fundamental truth often overlooked by parents: while camp undoubtedly offers specialized activities, its true value lies in the intangible skills it instills in children. Lonnie Lorenz, director of Swift Nature Camp of Illinois, concurs, emphasizing the importance of children learning to thrive in a community setting independent of their parents or teachers.

Nick Rolain, our Assistent Director, echoes the sentiment that camps provide a platform for children to break free from their comfort zones. Swift Nature Camp is were I first experience of the power of camp. I came to camp in my mid 20's and it was a life changing experience that grew me to be a better person. I see our campers becoming more caring and understanding every day. The same is true for our campers.

Often the campers that attend SNC are the children that like nature, the outdoors and adore animals. Our Nature Center provides the opportunity for children to learn more about the environment while being able to care for furry friends.  Interacting with animals like turtles, snakes, and of course Bubba our pet pig fosters not only an appreciation for nature but also nurtures advocacy for environmental preservation.

Through team-building activities and autonomy in forming friendships, campers develop crucial life skills that extend beyond the campfire. The bonds formed at camp, re often greater than at school because a camper is living full time with other people who are different than yourself. Activities often help these friendships during animal care sessions or overnight camping trips, friendships often grow as campers learn more about each other and find similar likes and dislikes. 

At Swift Nature Camp, independence is a cornerstone of our philosophy. Campers learn to solve everyday challenges, from flipping their shirts right-side-out to making responsible choices. Such experiences build self-confidence and resilience that serve them well beyond the Northwoods.

Overnight camps like SNC augment campers' life skills, empowering them to make decisions and support one another through thunderstorms and homesickness. These challenges, may seem daunting at the time, help a camper foster independence and self-assurance.

At the heart of every camp experience lies the opportunity for self-discovery. Whether attending with friends or forging new connections, campers learn compassion, acceptance, and the value of diversity.

Ultimately, summer camp is a transformative journey where children not only explore new interests but also uncover facets of themselves in a supportive, nurturing environment. As a camp director, witnessing campers embrace their true selves is the most rewarding aspect of my role.

Please reach out, we would love to chat with you more about Swift Nature Camp.

Lonnie
630-654-8036
www.SNC.Camp

 Parents Can Ruin Their Child's Summer: A Camp Director's Perspective

As the director of Swift Nature Camp for nearly three decades, I've witnessed firsthand the joy and transformation that summer camp can bring to children's lives. However, I've also seen how well-meaning parents can inadvertently undermine their child's summer experience by making the wrong camp choices. Here are some common mistakes parents inavoidably make when selecting a summer camp:

1. Ignoring Their Child's Interests: Parents often choose a residential summer camp based on their own preferences or what they think their child should enjoy, rather than considering their child's interests and passions. This can lead to a lack of enthusiasm and engagement from the child.

2. Overlooking Camp Values: Some parents prioritize factors like convenience or cost over the camp's values and philosophy. However, a mismatch between the camp's values and the family's values can result in a dissonant experience for the child. This can often result in children returning home with a personality that is less than you would like

3. Focusing Solely on Facilities: While state-of-the-art facilities may be impressive, they do not necessarily guarantee a quality camp experience. Parents should look beyond the amenities and consider factors such as the quality of staff, programming, and the camp's approach to child development.

4. Disregarding Feedback: Parents may dismiss negative reviews or feedback about a camp, assuming it won't apply to their child's experience. However, it's essential to heed warnings from other families and trust their insights.

5. Overparenting: Hovering or micromanaging from afar can hinder a child's ability to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience and develop independence. It's essential for parents to trust the camp staff and allow their child the space to grow.

6. Not Reading: Parents for some reason feel camp has 2 requirments Paying and Packing. These are the least important aspects of picking a camp. Read everything about the camp you are selecting.

How Swift Nature Camp Responds To The Above Issues::

1. **Ignoring Their Child's Interests:** At Swift Nature Camp, we understand the importance of catering to each child's unique interests and passions. Our diverse range of nearly 100 activities, including outdoor adventures, arts and crafts and Lego, ensures that every camper finds something they love. This is why on our website, we have videos specifically for the campers to get a feel about SNC. We believe, by offering daily choices of activities,  we empower campers to explore their interests and discover new talents.

2. **Overlooking Camp Values:** Our camp's values are at the heart of everything we do. From fostering a love and respect for nature to promoting teamwork and inclusivity, our program is designed to align with the values of families who prioritize character development and personal growth. By immersing campers in an environment that reflects old fashioned values, we create a cohesive and supportive community where every child feels valued and understood. We belive Kindness matters at SNC.

3. **Focusing Solely on Facilities:** While our facilities are well-maintained and provide a comfortable setting for campers, it's the people and programs that truly set us apart. Our dedicated staff members are carefully selected for their expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment to nurturing each child's potential. From trained counselors to experienced activity leaders, our SNC team ensures that every aspect of the camp experience is enriching and rewarding. We have learned over the years campers first come to camp for the activities and the environment, but they return for how camp makes them feel.

4. **Disregarding Feedback:** At Swift Nature Camp, we value feedback from campers and families alike. We actively seek input through surveys, parent meetings, and ongoing communication channels to continuously improve our program and address any concerns. By listening to the needs and preferences of our community, we can adapt and evolve to better serve our campers and families. Maybe that is why we have been doing camp for nearly 30 years.

5. **Overparenting:** We recognize the importance of fostering independence and self-reliance in our campers. That's why we encourage parents to trust our experienced staff and allow their child the freedom to explore and grow in a safe and supportive environment. Our structured yet flexible program provides opportunities for campers to make choices, take risks, and learn from their experiences, helping them develop confidence and resilience that will serve them well beyond their time at camp.

6.**Not Reading:** At Swift anture Camp our website is loaded with information. We want to work with your families for years and want to be part of your childs upbringing. The best way we feel to do this is to inform you as much as possible. Weather it be Zoom meeting for new families or in person get togethers before camp starts. Join the SNC Family.

Lastly, selecting the right summer camp requires thoughtful consideration and prioritizing the child's needs and interests above all else. By avoiding these common pitfalls, parents can ensure their child has a positive and enriching summer camp experience. Trust me, as someone who has dedicated their life to creating memorable camp experiences, making the right choice can make all the difference in your child's summer.

Plese give me a call and we can talk more about camp and your child.

Lonnie
630-654-8036
www.SNC.Camp

Embracing Uncertainty: How Overnight Summer Camp Prepares Children for Life's Journey

As the director of Swift Nature Camp for nearly 30 years, I've seen countless children embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth amidst the uncertainty of overnight summer camp. In Maggie Jackson's book, "Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure," she delves into the profound lessons uncertainty can teach us. I couldn't agree more with her insights, especially in the context of camp.

At SNC, we believe that uncertainty is not something to be feared, but rather embraced as a catalyst for growth and resilience. Here's how the uncertainty of overnight summer camp helps children prepare for life's challenges:

**1. Adaptability:** Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and learning to adapt is a valuable skill. At camp, children are constantly faced with new situations, from making friends with bunkmates to trying out adventurous activities like rock climbing or kayaking. Through these experiences, they learn to embrace change and adapt with confidence.

**2. Problem-Solving:** Uncertainty often presents opportunities for creative problem-solving. Whether it's figuring out how to set up a tent or navigating a challenging team-building activity, camp encourages children to think critically, explore different solutions, and persevere until they find success. These problem-solving skills are invaluable in the face of life's obstacles.

**3. Building Confidence:** Stepping outside of one's comfort zone is essential for personal growth. At SNC, children are encouraged to try new things, take risks, and push their limits. Each small victory—whether it's conquering a fear of the dark on a nighttime hike or performing in a talent show—builds confidence and self-esteem.

**4. Resilience:** Life is full of setbacks, but it's how we respond to adversity that defines us. At camp, children learn resilience—the ability to bounce back from failure, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward. Whether it's dealing with homesickness or facing a setback in a team challenge, camp teaches children that setbacks are temporary and that they have the strength to overcome them.

Overnight Summer Camp is full of fun, friendships and cool activities. Yet, uncertainty is abound, this might seem scary to Moms and campers alike. Overnight summer camp provides children with invaluable opportunities for growth and learning. By embracing uncertainty, children develop adaptability, problem-solving skills, confidence, and resilience—qualities that will serve them well as they navigate life's journey.

Warm regards,

Lonnie
Swift Nature Camp
www.SNC.Camp
630-654-8036