Wisconsin Science & Nature Summer 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."

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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

Parent 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 sometime sad when they visit because often campers 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 and giving them the independence to do so even if being away or outside is kinda new to them.

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 pets are not all fun and games, they need to be responsible responsible to feed, water and play with pets before any of their own play time. Responsibility comes first. Parents does your child have a pet you don't want to care for pet 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 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, If you choose our private Motor Coach brings 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 learn more about this Overnight Wisconsin Animal Camp, read more about how we encourage children to be more responsible and to be accountable for themselves as well as being kinder. Learn more about the cool activities, the friendships and the animals. Hope to see you at Swift Nature Camp