Philosophy

Counselors at Camp Fern are hired for their patience, optimism, physical skills and creativity. They teach not only activities, but pride, self-confidence, independence, and sportsmanship in and out of the cabin.

More often than not, counselors at Fern were once campers themselves. Camp Fern counselors take homesick campers aside for a hug, are expected to share their own experiences and life lessons, and love counselor talent nights, when their campers' whims may have them lip-synching to Hanson and Kelly Clarkson or imitating Elvis or their counselors.

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The camper to counselor ratio at Fern is at least 4 campers to 1 counselor. The average age of a counselor is 20. Every year we certify counselors through the NRA for riflery; American Red Cross for water activities; and Adventure Experiences for ropes activities. Counselors are selected based on attitude with children, skill level in activities and submit to a reference and background check and personal or telephone interviews.

Counselors nominate campers-of-the-week and honor campers. To keep parents posted about their camper's experience, they write personal letters home.

During the four-week sessions, several opposite-sex counselors called "Smohawks" teach activities and help organize evening entertainment.

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