About
The Fresh Air Fund offers free summer camp programs for youth who live and go to school in NYC and meet income eligibility requirements. Camp activities listed in the facts include creative arts, STEM, outdoor adventure, swimming, drumming, sports, engineering, photography, art, guitar, music, and leadership development workshops.
At a glance
- Ages: 8–17 years old
About the provider
The Fresh Air Fund was founded in 1877. It is a youth development organization providing transformative outdoor experiences, at no cost, for New York City children from underserved communities. The Fresh Air Fund is accredited by the American Camp Association.
- Summer camp — 8-15 · Free summer camp programs for youth who live and go to school in NYC and meet income eligibility requirements.
- Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program — 16-17 · For youth who live and go to school in NYC.
- Camp Anita Bliss Coler — girls, ages 9-14 · Camp activities may include creative arts, STEM, outdoor adventure, swimming, drumming, and more.
- Camp Hayden-Marks — boys ages 9-14 · Camp activities may include swimming, sports, engineering, photography, art, guitar, and more.
- Camp Hidden Valley — ages 8-12 · Campers enjoy activities from swimming, sports, and outdoor adventure to music and art classes.
- Camp Junior — ages 8-17 · Operated by The Fresh Air Fund and located at Harriman State Park.
- Camp Mariah — ages 12-15 · The summer component of the year-round Career Awareness Program.
- Camp Tommy — ages 15-17 · Youth participate in leadership development and skill building workshops.
Youth ages 8-15 who live and go to school in NYC and meet income eligibility requirements can apply for free summer camp programs. Youth ages 16-17 who live and go to school in NYC are eligible to apply for the CIT Program. Camp programs are at no cost. Camp facilities are available to rent for day and overnight trips during the school year when Fresh Air children are not at camp.
What families say
“This is my second summer, and this time is even better than last year! I kept in touch with the girls I met last year! My advice to a new camper would be to listen to your counselors! They’re really fun and here to help.” — Reann, 10, Camper
“This is my first year at camp. It’s really, really fun! My favorite activity is when we went to the farm – the goat was my favorite! All the counselors are so kind and encouraging. I would tell my friends to come with an open mind because you’re going to do a lot of new things and you’re going to make a lot of new friends.” — Harlow, 12, Camper
“Being away from home has been an amazing adventure for me! It’s an entirely new and exciting experience that I absolutely cherish.” — Jayden, 11
Last updated August 30, 2026.
Is this your business? There is no cost, but you will be asked to sign up or log in.