Camp Winnataska's history began as Dr. Elwyn Ballard's afternoon excursion in a Model-T (in 1914) to a promising fishing hole. Enchanted by the waterfalls, he made a summer camp for kids in 1916 at the site

Dr. Ballard, Commissioner of Boy Scouts in Birmingham, and his wife, Florence, discovered this site and became vital forces in the founding and growth of the camp. 

Boy Scouts and Boys Club members from the area first camped here in tents in 1916. 

Through Dr. Ballard, the Interdenominational Birmingham Sunday School Association acquired the camp in 1918 and offered sessions not only for boys but for girls as well - the first organization-sponsored camping for girls in Alabama and among the first in the South. 

Winnataska early received national recognition for excellence of staff, facilities, and programs."

https://winnataska.org/history