Family Wellness FAQ

Do I need to be vaccinated to attend?

All campers and staff need to be fully vaccinated to attend a Fresh Air camp or participate in any Fresh Air programs. Read more about our vaccination policy here.

Will I need to wear a mask?

Masks are not required during Family Wellness trips. Families who chose to mask may do so.  

(Masks will be required for families who are picked up by The Fresh Air Fund from the Beacon train station.)

Will families be spread out across the facilities?

Families will be spread across our camps. One family will occupy each cabin, in accordance with social distancing guidelines.  

How will I get there?

The Sharpe Reservation is approximately an hour and a half drive from NYC. Harriman State Park is approximately an hour drive. Directions will be provided with your Confirmation Packet. Families who are not able to drive, can take the Metro North to the Beacon Station and will be picked up by camp staff. All train times are scheduled during the confirmation process.

What are the facilities like? (Are restrooms in the cabins? Is there electricity?)

Please click here to see photos. Camp Hidden Valley and Mariah facilities are more modern with bathrooms inside each cabin. Please note that cell service can be spotty in some areas.

Can I choose which type of accommodations (modern or rustic) to stay in?

You can indicate your preference when you register. There is limited availability, and we may not be able to accommodate your first choice. 

What do I need to do before arriving?

The Confirmation Packet will provide suggestions on what to pack. The Confirmation Packet will also include paperwork that must be completed before the trip. 

Who is eligible to participate?

Limited spots are available. Families that have previously registered for Fresh Air Fund summer programs are eligible for the initial available spots.

Can I select the date that my family attends?

You can indicate your preference when you register. There is limited availability and we will do our best to accommodate your first choice. 

What safety precautions are being taken?

The Family Wellness program is following the guidelines set by the local health department, Center for Disease Control and the American Camping Association. 

Accommodations, activities and meals are all following safety guidelines. Cabins and all camp facilities will be cleaned thoroughly in between each camp session and more details on the safety protocols will be shared in the confirmation packet.

What happens when I arrive?

Each family will be assigned an arrival window for example 12pm–1pm, 1pm–2pm, or 2pm–3pm. There is an orientation at 5pm, followed by dinner and optional evening activities. Please refer to our main Family Wellness page for an example of a full day of programming. more details will be provided in the Confirmation Packet.

Do I need to know how to swim?

No. While there will be some optional water activities, such as boating, life jackets will be available and waterfront staff will be present. 

What should I bring with me? What should I leave at home?

After registering, you will be provided a list of suggested items to bring and paperwork to complete. 

Are extended family or friends able to attend?

For safety reasons and in accordance with physical distancing guidelines, Family Wellness participation is limited to members of your household.

Should I bring my own food?

All meals and snacks will be provided. No outside food is allowed. After registering, a questionnaire will be provided to ask about dietary restrictions.  

Are there any costs to participate?

The Fresh Air Fund’s Family Wellness program is provided free of charge to participating families.