Depending on the age, there are ten to sixteen campers per cabin. Campers six through eleven attend activities under a 'cabin leader' system , which was created by Si Ragsdale when he was director at Camp Fern. Ragsdale opted for a plan where the campers were under the supervision of their counselor even as they went from activity to activity . This counselor also becomes an assistant instructor in the activities, so he is well qualified to report on the progresses, challenges, and successes of the campers under his care. Selective Activity choices range from regular activities to others such as fencing, fishing, chess, sailing, magic, and many more .
Campers take part in activities by age and expertise.
In swimming, for instance, they are divided into Red Cross beginner, advanced beginner, swimmer, and advanced swimmer. Campers also participate in either soccer, baseball, or All-Sports league competition three evenings a week. Twelve year old campers select a daily schedule from the above with the guidance of their cabin leader. While they are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities, a boy who wants to concentrate on tennis, for example, may elect to spend several hours a day getting tennis instruction and playing competitively. Campers age thirteen through sixteen select a specialization program.