PACC: Food as Fuel
Embarking on the summer camp experience is not just about thrilling activities, new friends, and mountaintop nature; it's also a journey through the culinary staples that fuel the fun at Camp Greenville. Let’s dive into the intricacies of meal planning, camper feedback, accommodating dietary needs, and the unique dining experience that sets camp meals apart from “real life”.
The Menu Planning Process
Behind every satisfying meal at Camp Greenville is a year-long planning process. Marc Wilson, Food Service Director, takes a collaborative approach to menu planning by deconstructing last summer’s menu, seeking input from program directors, cabin leaders, and anyone with a taste for the summer program. The result is a thoughtfully curated menu that caters to diverse preferences, while covering all the major food groups with calorie-packed combinations. Campers play hard at camp - that means they need more energy (in the form of calories) than a usual day at school or an indoor day at home.
Choices Galore
Even though the main dishes consist of a set menu for the meal, there are still plenty of options for campers to choose. For example, campers have the opportunity to “spice up” any dish with salt, pepper, ketchup, and other condiments at their table, or request hot sauce… or really anything their heart desires… for the kitchen staff. There’s also a salad bar available at each meal, which for breakfast includes yogurts and fruits, and for lunch/dinner includes everything for greens and veggies salads. Whole fruits like bananas and apples are available at every meal. The primary goal is that campers are fueled for the day. If the main menu item is a no-go for your camper, they can always ask for a sunbutter and jelly sandwich (our dining hall is peanut-free, but the sunflower butter is good)!
Accommodating Special Dietary Needs
The dining hall at Camp Greenville isn't just a place to eat; it's a place for everyone to feel welcome and cared for. Camp Greenville is committed to accommodating special dietary needs, ranging from gluten-free and vegetarian diets to severe allergies like celiac disease or food-specific allergies. We take proactive measures to provide alternatives, prevent cross-contamination, and even offer personalized solutions for campers with specific dietary concerns.
When you complete your camper’s Health History form, you’ll have the opportunity to identify any allergies or special dietary needs. If there are more specific you’d like to share, reach out to Stacie Simpson via email or by phone/text at 864-432-1085.
Camper Quest!
By completing 2 out of 3 Quests in February, campers earn a friendship bracelet.
If you have a special diet: Your parents usually serve up your food items, and you don’t need to ask for it. At camp, you’ll need to ask and go to the special diets window for most meals. For at least 5 meals, practice asking for your special diet menu items out loud from your parents. For example, “Can I please have the gluten free option? Thank you.”
If you don’t have any dietary restrictions: Your parents might offer you seconds, or offer alternatives if you don’t prefer what’s being served. For at least 5 meals, practice asking for more food or asking for something different if you don’t prefer what’s being served.
Balanced Nutrition and Kid-Friendly Menus
A crucial aspect of the culinary journey at Camp Greenville is the commitment to balanced nutrition. Each meal’s menu changes from week-to-week but showcases a variety of meals from traditional breakfast items like pancakes and waffles to sandwich-based lunches and themed dinners featuring Mexican and Italian dishes. Plus a cookout every Monday night in Camp Square, with hot dogs, hamburgers, and all the sides. The emphasis is on providing well-rounded meals that fuel campers for their day of adventure.
Camp Dining Hall vs. School Cafeteria
The camp dining hall is not your average cafeteria experience. Comparatively, the camp dining hall is a the lively (and sometimes loud), community-oriented atmosphere, compared to the more institutional vibe of school cafeterias. Laughter, chatter, and camp traditions contribute to a warm and welcoming environment where meals are not just about sustenance but an integral part of the camp culture.
The Best for Last… Dessert!
No culinary journey is complete without a touch of sweetness. At Camp Greenville, desserts are reserved exclusively for dinner. Fresh-baked cookies, brownies, red velvet cake, and the ever-popular churros add a flavorful conclusion to each day, turning dessert time into a cherished camp tradition.
From careful menu planning to accommodating diverse dietary needs and creating a vibrant dining atmosphere, Camp Greenville ensures that every camper's experience is not just adventurous but where every meal is a celebration of community, inclusivity, and the joy of shared experiences.
We’re here to help! If you have any questions about the topics above, please reach out to Stacie Simpson via email or by phone/text at 864-432-1085.
