Towering Pines Blog

Our boys have a plethora of opportunities to engage in the beauty of nature each summer.  Some of these moments are as simple as walking in the white pines on the way to an activity, hearing the wind blow through the trees as they fall asleep in their bunk, listening to the waves of Nokomis lap against the dock while standing at assembly or smelling the fresh scent of the forest after a light TP dew.

And then there are more purposeful times where nature is not only embraced, but also explored.  Cabin canoe trips provide many hours on the water, time sitting by the campfire with friends as well as sleeping in tents in the woods. Zoo class goes on scavenger hunts navigating through the foliage searching for various plants and finding a variety of insects and animals that live in our area.  In addition, campers create environments in terrariums so that they can observe plants and animals in tiny self-sustaining environments.  Boys also care for the bunny pen and turtle pond learning what it takes to maintain quality of life for creatures.

There are adventures taken by the zoo class as well as during evening workshops to explore the Moss Garden and Lost Lake.  How incredible is it that we have an ecosystem right at camp that is so unique and that continues to evolve before our very eyes!!!  In addition, boys navigate trails both at TP and Woodland while biking and horseback riding.

On the last vespers of the summer Cabins 4 & 5 (Huron & Mohawk) discussed the value and importance of nature at camp.  Here are some of the reflections that they shared:

• Camp wouldn’t function if it weren’t for the nature that surrounds us.  Nature makes this place the peaceful and joyful camp we all enjoy.
• Without respect for nature, camp would not be fun because everybody would mess with the animals at zoo, and then zoo would not be fun, and camp would not be fun.
• Nature is important because the trees make oxygen and water lets the people stay hydrated.  Sun makes vitamin C and trees also make fruits.
• It is the most important element since we depend on nature to develop the other activities.  Without nature there would be no place for the camp.  It is our duty to respect and preserve it.
• Without nature soccer, tennis and other activities wouldn’t work out because trees and bushes are important for activities.  In sailing without wind and in swimming with no water, and without nature overall, there would be no Towering Pines.
• Nature is important because we need it to survive, and if we quit taking care of nature, then we won’t be having fun in so many things.
• If we did not have nature, we wouldn’t have fun things like zoo.  For example, respect for nature allows you to catch frogs or snakes!
• Nature, it’s all around us.  Many activities need it to function.  The nature and the name suggests that nature is the centerpiece for camp.
• If we didn’t have nature, sailing wouldn’t be an activity because the wind is part of nature and helps us move.  Water is also nature, and that’s what helps the boats float which is also something we need.
• Respect for nature means to not harm living organisms.  Just put yourself in their shoes.  How would you feel if someone picked you and threw you or ripped you out of the ground. I know for a fact that you would not like that.
• Respecting nature is very important because, if we don’t do it, camp will not seem the same like it is now. The lakes and the forest they would be dry, contaminated and destroyed.  That’s why we need to be empathetic and take care of it.

There will be plenty more opportunities to explore and learn amidst nature in the Northwoods of Wisconsin in 2025! Reserve a spot for your son(s) by registering now:  Register for Summer of 2025

AngieWenzl

• Camp Mom at TP
• Leadership Staff at TP/Office Manager
• Marketing TP/Woodland
• Leadership Team TP/Woodland
• Assistant Waterfront Director at Woodland
• Counselor at Woodland
• “Building in our hearts fond memories, Towering Pines for you.”