PACC: A Taste of Camp! The Dining Hall Experience
Camp isn’t just about thrilling adventures, making new friends, and immersing in nature—it’s also about enjoying the energizing meals that keep campers going. At Camp Greenville, mealtime is an essential part of the experience, from the planning that goes into mealtime to the inclusive options that cater to all dietary needs. Let’s take a closer look at what makes dining at camp different than at home.
Crafting the Menu
Every meal at Camp Greenville begins with a year-round planning process. Marc Wilson, the Director of Operations, works alongside program directors, cabin leaders, and even campers to refine the menu based on past experiences. The result is a selection of meals that does not only satisfy taste buds but also provides the necessary nutrition for an active camp lifestyle. Since campers exert more energy here than they do on a typical school day, their meals are designed to provide the right fuel to keep them energized.
Plenty of Choices at Every Meal
While each meal follows a structured menu, there’s no shortage of ways for campers to customize their plates. A variety of condiments like salt, pepper, ketchup, and hot sauce allow campers to adjust flavors to their liking. The salad bar is a staple at every meal—offering yogurt and fruit at breakfast, and fresh greens and vegetables at lunch and dinner. Whole fruits like apples and bananas are always available, ensuring that campers have access to nutritious snacks. For those who prefer an alternative to the main dish, sun butter and jelly sandwiches are a great peanut-free option that ensure everyone can find something they like.
Meeting Special Dietary Needs
At Camp Greenville, mealtime is inclusive for everyone. Camp takes dietary needs seriously, accommodating gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-specific restrictions with great care. The dining hall staff takes proactive measures to prevent cross-contamination and offers personalized alternatives for campers with specific needs.
Parents can specify any dietary restrictions when completing their camper’s Health History form. If additional accommodations are required, we encourage you to reach out to Katy Harvill via email.
Camper Quest!
By completing 2 out of 3 Quests in February, campers earn a friendship bracelet.
A Fun Food Challenge!
For at least 5 meals, practice asking the following:
For campers with dietary restrictions: At camp, campers will need to actively request their special meal options at the designated dining hall window. Practicing this at home can help make the transition smoother! For example, saying, “May I have the gluten-free meal option, please?”
For campers without dietary restrictions: Adults at home may offer seconds or provide alternatives if something isn’t preferred. At camp, it’s important for campers to practice advocating for themselves by requesting more servings or a different option when needed. For example, saying, “May I have more, please?” or “May I have another option, please?”
Nutritious and Delicious Camp Meals
Balanced nutrition is at the heart of Camp Greenville’s food philosophy. The menu rotates weekly, offering a mix of classic favorites and diverse dishes, such as pancakes and waffles for breakfast, sandwich-based lunches, and themed dinners featuring flavors from Mexican and Italian cuisine. A beloved tradition is the Monday night cookout in Camp Square, where campers gather to enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers, and all the fixings. Every meal is designed to be both wholesome and delicious, ensuring that campers are ready for their daily activities.
The Dining Hall vs. School Cafeteria
Dining at Camp Greenville is a different experience from a traditional school cafeteria. The dining hall buzzes with excitement, fills with laughter & camp traditions, and has a strong sense of community. Unlike the structured atmosphere of school lunchrooms, meals at camp are social, interactive, and woven into the very fabric of the camp experience.
Dessert at Camp
At Camp Greenville, desserts are a treat reserved for dinner, offering a delightful end to each day. From fresh-baked cookies and brownies to red velvet cake and the crowd-favorite churros, these treats bring campers together around the table!
With thoughtful menu planning, dedicated attention to dietary needs, and a lively dining environment, Camp Greenville ensures that every camper’s experience is not only filled with adventure but is also enriched by a dining culture that celebrates community, inclusivity, and the joy of sharing meals together.
For past PACC resources, CLICK HERE!
We’re here to help! If you have any questions about the topics above, please reach out to Katy Harvill via email.
