Camp Fern Legacy is acutely focused on your camper’s health and safety. Some activities are more rigorous than others, and we strive to keep your child safe at such times with close observation and good hydration. Illnesses and accidents do happen in a summer camp setting, but you should know that we can take care of your camper.
Every member of our camp community completes comprehensive pre-camp training to ensure consistent, attentive care across all aspects of the camper experience.
At Camp Fern Legacy, we invest significant time and care into preparing the people who care for your children. Every member of our camp and medical team undergoes comprehensive training prior to the summer season, including first aid and CPR certification, emergency response procedures, camper supervision standards, and age-appropriate support strategies.
Our staff also participates in scenario-based training focused on homesickness, conflict resolution, and camper wellness to ensure they are prepared not just for medical needs, but for the everyday moments that matter. Ongoing supervision and leadership oversight throughout the season help maintain the highest standard of care.
We are committed to creating an environment where families feel confident knowing their children are supported by capable, attentive, and compassionate professionals.
At Camp Fern Legacy, health and wellness are woven into the daily experience — creating an environment where campers feel strong, supported, and ready to thrive.
Our nurses oversee all medical care in accordance with Texas Department of State Health Services youth camp regulations and best medical practices. They manage daily medications, respond to illnesses and injuries, coordinate care with our camp physicians when needed, and communicate directly with parents about any health concerns. Beyond treatment, our nurses keep a close eye on the overall wellbeing of campers and staff, helping ensure a healthy, safe, and nurturing camp environment.
29 years practicing general pediatrics at Diagnostic Clinic of Longview. Medical degree from UT Medical Branch in Galveston. Former Medical Director, Chief Medical Information Officer, and Chief Medical Officer at major healthcare companies. Over 45 years of experience in pediatric care.
Their familiar faces bring comfort to returning campers and reassurance to new families, creating a strong foundation of trust within our camp community.
All medications are recorded in the medical record prior to opening day of camp and then stored in the infirmary under lock and key for dispensing by the nursing staff. This applies not just to campers, but also to our staff.
Exceptions are made for rescue inhalers and Epi-pens/Auvi-Q devices. Just be sure that these medications and equipment/supplies are noted in the medical record prior to arrival at camp.
State regulations prevent us from administering prescription meds that are:
Regulations require us to follow the directions on all medicines unless we have a note from a physician authorizing something different.
You can send it, but two important things to note: Your camper will be going full speed all day long and into the evening, so the need for something to help them fall asleep is unlikely. In addition, by law we must follow the dosage directions on all medicines (including melatonin), so we will need a doctor’s note with exact dosing to administer this or any other supplement.
Homesickness is completely normal, and our counselors are trained to recognize the signs and provide compassionate support. We keep campers engaged with activities, encourage friendships, and check in regularly. Most campers adjust within the first few days and end up having the time of their lives. If homesickness persists, we’ll communicate with you directly.
Please do not “promise to pick them up if.” Talk about ways they can cope with feelings they may experience while they are away. Moving through and overcoming these feelings, like homesickness, provides lifelong skills. Your camper will gain resiliency, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. Encourage your campers with something positive, and let them know you believe in their ability to persevere.
We take your camper’s health and safety very seriously. Our infirmary is equipped with:
If we can save your camper a trip to urgent care or the ER, we will make every effort to do so. Otherwise, our pediatricians and nurses will ensure they are seen at the most appropriate facility and communicate with you directly.
