Nothing matters more than your child’s well-being. At Camp Fern Legacy, we combine professional oversight, clear safety protocols, and compassionate care to create a safe place where campers can explore, learn, and thrive.
We maintain detailed procedures for medical situations, severe weather, and on-site emergencies — with practiced response plans and direct communication with families when needed.
At Camp Fern Legacy, every activity is thoughtfully designed and carefully supervised to ensure campers can explore with confidence. Our waterfront, ropes courses, equestrian program, and specialty programs operate under strict safety standards, with trained staff providing clear instruction and active supervision at all times. Equipment is regularly inspected, activity areas are maintained daily, and staff-to-camper ratios are structured to prioritize attentive care.
We also believe communication builds trust. As one parent shared:
Our natural setting is one of our greatest strengths — and one we manage with intention. From weather monitoring and hydration protocols to shaded rest areas and structured rest periods, we take proactive steps to ensure campers remain as comfortable and safe as possible in an outdoor environment.
At Camp Fern Legacy, adventure and safety go hand in hand — creating an environment where campers can challenge themselves, build resilience, and grow with confidence.
Camp Fern Legacy maintains comprehensive safety procedures that are regularly reviewed, practiced, and updated based on current best practices. Our team is trained to respond quickly and decisively — so your camper is always protected. In the unlikely event of a crisis, we will do our best to communicate with you as quickly and clearly as possible. Your child’s safety—and your peace of mind—are our top priorities.
Weather Monitoring:
Our leadership team monitors National Weather Service alerts and local conditions continuously throughout each day using a Perry Weather on-site weather station. It allows us to monitor conditions and trigger alerts to siren in real time. We use real-time radar and maintain direct communication with local emergency management to stay ahead of developing weather.
Shelter Procedures:
When severe weather threatens, campers are moved immediately to designated shelter locations. All campers and staff practice shelter drills during the first days of each session so everyone knows exactly where to go and what to do. Communication is maintained using walkie talkies located in every cabin and activity area.
Lightning Protocol:
Our Perry Weather system also monitors lightning, and if lightning is alerted within 10 miles, outdoor activities cease. When thunder is heard or lightning is spotted, all campers are cleared from the water and open areas immediately. Activities resume only after a designated all-clear period.
Flooding & Flash Flood Awareness:
All of our cabins are located outside of the designated floodplain, according to FEMA and local floodplain maps. While a portion of our property, including some waterfront activities, are near the shoreline, which lies within a mapped floodplain, no cabins or sleeping facilities are within that area. Our lake is dammed opposite the campgrounds and water is released when necessary or designated by the Fern Lake Club. Our team monitors flood watches and warnings closely, and our waterfront activities cease during a significant rain event to protect our campers and our shoreline.
Camp Fern Legacy’s location and facilities are evaluated regularly for water flow and drainage. In the event of a flood warning, we have established evacuation routes and procedures, and we will contact families directly with updates. Camper safety is our first priority, so we will always err on the side of caution.
Communication with Families:
During any significant weather event, we communicate proactively with families via email and push notifications. You will never be left wondering — if conditions require action, you will hear from us directly. In the unlikely event of a crisis, we will do our best to communicate with you as quickly and clearly as possible. Your child’s safety—and your peace of mind—are our top priorities.
Through mentorship, structured group activities, and open communication with families, we ensure campers not only feel safe — but confident, connected, and supported throughout their Fern experience.
All staff complete thorough background checks and comprehensive pre-camp training covering emergency procedures, camper supervision, activity safety and skill training, CPR/AED and first aid, as well as Sexual Abuse and Misconduct prevention and reporting. We take every step to ensure your camper is safe, supported, and in capable hands.
Depending on their role, staff may also receive specialized training and receive certifications including lifeguard, water safety instructor, and challenge course credentials.
All high-adventure activities operate under strict safety standards with certified instructors, and equipment is regularly inspected for wear and tear across all activity areas.
Our waterfront staff includes American Red Cross trained lifeguards, and swim tests are conducted before campers access deeper water. Horseback riding is supervised by experienced staff, and all campers receive instruction before riding. Our Ropes Course is inspected and certified annually by the national organization, Rope Works.
