For more than 35 years, Camp ASCCA has been a special place for John Rabbeitt III. Now 51 years old, John first attended camp when he was just 12 or 13 years old through Mobile Rotary. One of his favorite memories from those early years? Riding the bus to Camp.
Today, the excitement is still just as strong.
John and his parents, John Jr. and Laurnette “Doll” Rabbeitt of Fairhope, traveled to Camp ASCCA for Session 1 this summer. While John attends Camp, his parents are staying nearby in the Charron Family Cabin at Frith Landing, a new opportunity that allows families to remain close and experience a little bit of camp themselves.
The moment they drove through Camp ASCCA’s gates, John Jr. and Doll saw the same excitement in their son that they have seen for decades.
“He talks about ASCCA year-round,” Doll said. “The excitement he had when we drove under the gate was just incredible.”
When asked why they continue sending John to camp after all these years, the answer was simple.
He loves Camp ASCCA.
From reconnecting with friends to meeting new people, the socialization aspect of camp has always been one of the biggest highlights. The friendships and memories made here continue long after summer ends.
For John Jr. and Doll, having the opportunity to stay in the Charron Family Cabin has made this year’s experience even more meaningful.
Last summer, they stayed in Alexander City while John attended Camp. When they learned about the new cabin at Frith Landing, they immediately knew they were interested.
“We were overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness and appropriateness of the cabin,” John Jr. said.
The cabin has provided a peaceful retreat while still allowing them to remain connected to their son’s camp experience. They have especially enjoyed watching the deer, geese, and other animal visitors that make the area feel even more special.
“It’s marvelous,” Doll said.
They were equally impressed by the craftsmanship and care that went into creating the space.
“We were blown away by the construction and attention to detail. No corners were cut,” John Jr. shared.
Beyond the cabin itself, John Jr. and Doll said it means a great deal that Camp ASCCA has found a way to bring a little piece of camp to families as well as campers.
“The staff has bent over backwards,” John Jr. said. “Absolutely no regrets.”
As Camp ASCCA celebrates its 50th summer, stories like John’s remind us that Camp ASCCA is more than a week away from home. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are formed, traditions are created, and families become part of a community that lasts far beyond the summer season.
For John, John Jr., and Doll, Camp ASCCA remains just as special today as it was decades ago. And thanks to opportunities like the Charron Family Cabin, the Camp experience can now be shared by the whole family.
