Fresh Air Family Inc
4.6(20)4.6 out of 5 stars, 20 reviews Birmingham, AL
About Fresh Air Family Inc
Fresh Air Family Inc, primarily through its 'Gross Out Camp' program, offers an exceptional outdoor, science-focused summer camp experience. It distinguishes itself by providing hands-on learning in various scientific disciplines (microbiology, biology, ecology, hydrology, zoology) combined with a wide array of engaging outdoor and water-based activities like hiking, swimming, fishing, crawfish hunting, and exploring creeks for fossils and bugs. The program boasts passionate and knowledgeable instructors (e.g., Dr. Dana, Dr. Matt, Andy, Verna) who are dedicated to getting kids off screens and into nature. Its unique value lies in fostering a deep love for the outdoors and science through immersive, active play, resulting in tired, dirty, and thoroughly educated children.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Children aged approximately 6-12+ who have a strong interest in science, nature, and outdoor adventures.Families looking for engaging and educational summer camp experiences that prioritize physical activity and outdoor exploration.Parents seeking alternatives to indoor activities and screen time for their children.Kids who enjoy hands-on learning, getting dirty, and participating in water-based fun (swimming, creek exploration, fishing).Children looking to build friendships in an active, camp setting.
Why families love it
- Engaging hands-on science curriculum covering microbiology, biology, ecology, hydrology, zoology, light waves, fossils, and bugs.
- Highly passionate and knowledgeable instructors (e.g., Andy, Dr. Dana, Dr. Matt, Verna) who excel at teaching, entertaining, and engaging children.
- Diverse range of outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, fishing, crawfish hunting, water gun fights, cooling off in creeks, and general exploration.
- Programs offered at multiple locations, specifically mentioned: Oak Mtn, Trussville, and McCallum Park.
- Consistently generates high levels of child enjoyment and satisfaction, often cited as 'the highlight of their summer'.
- Fosters a social environment where kids can meet new friends and reunite with returning camp friends.
Insider tips
- This camp is highly recommended for children who explicitly enjoy or thrive in outdoor environments and are curious about nature/science.
- Expect children to come home dirty and tired, indicating a full day of active and immersive play.
- Consider signing up for multiple weeks or returning in subsequent years, as kids reportedly learn something new annually and enjoy the social aspect with returning friends.
- If your child loves hands-on learning and exploring, this organization provides a strong alternative to screen time.
Good to know before you go
- Children who strongly prefer indoor activities, dislike getting dirty, or are averse to extensive outdoor exposure and water play.
- No specific times or situations to avoid are mentioned, as all reviews are positive and highlight a consistently great experience.
- No specific problems or negative feedback were reported in the provided reviews, all experiences were overwhelmingly positive (5-star).
- Value
- Pricing details are not mentioned in the reviews. However, the high incidence of repeat customers (e.g., '2 years in a row', 'fifth summer') and universal 5-star ratings strongly imply that parents perceive the program to be of excellent value for the engaging, educational, and safe outdoor experience it provides.
- Safety
- Counselors are explicitly mentioned to keep the kids 'busy (and safe!) all day', indicating a focus on child safety and supervision during activities.
What parents say
"So grateful for Fresh Air Family. We have been fortunate enough to be able to attend Gross Out Camp at Oak Mtn. 2 years in a row. It’s a blessing to have instructors like Andy and Dr. Dana who have a passion for the outdoors and getting kids and families outside in the fresh air! They host so many events, and in the world of the iPad, I highly recommend the organization."
8 months ago
"My son (11 yo) loved learning the science aspect of the camp (microbiology , etc) from Dr. Dana, but also really loved all the waterworks too (swimming, fishing, crawfish hunting, water gun fights). He will definitely be back and hopefully eventually be a counselor 💚"
10 months ago
"Verna & the counselors at Gross Out Camp Oak Mtn made this week absolutely amazing for my girls! We have already signed up for another week of Gross Out Camp because they have had so much fun! Hiking, swimming, exploring, oh my! Hands down the BEST! 5 stars from our family!"
a year ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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