Summer Camp in the North woods of Minnesota is more than the pristine beauty of lakes, forests and eagles flying overhead. To me, Summer Camp is another home with another family. But camp isn't just any family or any home, Swift Nature Camp is a specialMinnesota Camp.

This summer home is filled with acceptance, love, encouragement, and true, down to earth friends who you will end up calling your camp family. Your counselors act as parents, older siblings, etc. They are great people to look up to. The campers are great friends for life. You may even end up looking at them as siblings. Acceptance is everywhere, no one kicks you out of the cabin because of who you are. Your uniqueness is celebrated. This is the main reason why I love Swift Nature Camp...it's so much more than just having fun.

Activities are everywhere at summer camp, there is so much to do. Here are just a few: Archery, Swimming, Fishing, Boating, Tubing, and Riflery. You are never bored and active all day long. The counselors help you get better regardless of that your skill level is. All activities are noncompetitive and so we all support each other, rather than worry who is best.

When I think of Swift, I think of trips. I'll never forget the Superior Hiking Trail or going to Ely. What an adventure! I loved the trails, nature, and sights of the forest. It was fun getting to know the other persons that hike with you. The wildlife you see is extremely cool. We saw hawks, bald eagles, deer, ospreys, trout, and carp. This is why I love Minnesota Camps

Life in a cabin is about learning from others and with others. It is becoming a team of understanding. Sure, sometimes we had our fights or minor issues, but almost always they were resolved and we grew closer as a team for them.

I always loved the Nature Center. It is a great place to learn about Nature and the Environment. The Director is always fun and teaches us loads of cool things but its not at all like school. There are all sorts of animals that are fun to observe and hold. One day they even made me feel a little more comfortable when I was homesick.

I'm returning to Swift Nature Camp for all Children's Summer Camp in Minnesota.

About the authors: Swift Nature Camp, a non-competitive, traditional coed Overnight Summer Camp. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15 enjoy nature, animals and science along with traditional camping activities. Swift specializes in programs for the first time camper as well as adventures for teens. Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz have been the owners since 1996. Kids Summer Camp