A string of buildings was built along the road adjacent to the winter cabin. Among these additions was a trading post (1954), health lodge (1952) and the director's cabin. A new dock was built at the waterfront along with a bridge leading to the swimming area from the central part of camp. Many troop camp sites were improved. A caretaker's house was built prior to camp in 1951. (Hartsville Messenger, June 1951) This caretaker's house was later moved up the hill and across the road and the present ranger's house was built c. 1962-63. William Lucas Shoemake (1916–1992) became the first full-time ranger in November 1962 and served through the summer of 1981. Mr. Shoemake was a fine Christian man who was greatly admired by the Camp Coker Staff. He was the only person to ever be granted a lifetime membership in Santee Lodge 116.