Countdown to Summer: The Fresh Air Fund Celebrates National Camping Month

It’s National Camping Month and the first day of Fresh Air Fund camp is almost here! Soon, campers will be packing their bags and heading to The Fund’s six sleepaway camps in New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley, ready to make new friends, discover new interests and dive into unforgettable summer adventures. 

In celebration of National Camping Month, and as we countdown to the first day of camp, let’s revisit some of the activities and experiences that make Fresh Air camps unique. From hiking, fishing, and swimming to stargazing, boating and outdoor photography, camp offers countless ways to put away screens, connect with nature and broaden horizons. 

Hiking And Spending Time in Nature  

Hiking up a picturesque mountainside to watch the sunset from the Pawnee viewpoint on The Fund’s Sharpe Reservation is a special memory for many campers. At camp, children go on overnight hikes, developing confidence and independence. Campers learn through exploring nature and counselors teach them about forest ecology, resource management, sustainability and more. Camp is an opportunity for children to experience nature and the outdoors in a completely new and different way.  

“My favorite thing to do at camp is hiking. I really enjoy seeing the forest and being in nature. It’s a totally different feeling from being in the city, so I’m taking advantage of that,” Jeremiah, 14.  

“During hikes, we made hotdogs, burgers and s’mores together,” said Emyla, 9. “I didn’t know what was going to happen, but I felt really good after the hike.” 

Building Confidence on the High Ropes Course 

Our older campers all have the chance to challenge themselves on the high ropes course. More than just an exciting physical activity, the high ropes course helps campers build confidence, develop teamwork and communication skills, and strengthen their focus and attention to detail. It’s an opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, support each other and gain a real sense of accomplishment.  

“I honestly was terrified doing the high ropes,” said Naziah, 14. “Once you get up there, it feels like 100 feet!” With the encouragement of counselors and fellow campers, Naziah overcame his fears and proudly completed the course. 

“The high ropes were hard but very fun,” said Cassius, 14. “I feel way more confident now than I did the first time.”  

Learning How to Fish 

Many campers share how exciting it is to catch their first fish, but the lakes and streams at Sharpe Reservation offer more than fishing: they serve as outdoor classrooms, where campers learn about ecosystems, identify different fish and even explore the environmental impacts of issues like overfishing. 

“Camp has had a huge impact on me. It’s given me access to things I would’ve never done in the city, like fishing!” said Kemar, 16.  

Chants and Cheers!

Chanting and singing together helps campers and counselors build a strong sense of community. It also boosts campers’ confidence, helping children come out of their shell, and encourages creativity and self-expression. The excitement sparked by a favorite camp chant is contagious and gives campers a fun outlet for extra energy. 

What is the best way to celebrate National Camping Month? Experience the magic of hiking, camping, and spending time outdoors for yourself! And of course by following the incredible stories from our campers all summer long!