Mealtimes Nourish Body, Soul

There are so many “best” parts of sleep away summer camp, and one of them is the food.

For many campers, mealtime is more than just fueling up; it’s a fun, social event that adds to the camp experience. 

Whether your child is a picky eater or an adventurous foodie, modern camps offer an impressive variety of delicious meals to suit every taste and dietary need. 

Gone are the days of basic camp fare limited to hot dogs and baked beans. Summer camps have had to adjust to the times. 

Today’s camps provide a wide range of meals, including options like pizza, pasta, tacos, grilled chicken, and fresh salads. 

There’s something for everyone, and the buffet-style setup often allows campers to choose what they want and try new foods without pressure. From hearty breakfasts of pancakes and eggs to satisfying lunches and dinners with multiple side options, the variety is designed to please.

Camps are also mindful of providing balanced nutrition, with many offering healthier choices such as whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

In addition to the main meals, healthy snacks like apples, oranges, bananas, and trail mix are often available throughout the day to keep campers energized. 

Fresh fruit is a popular option for a quick snack or dessert, giving campers a refreshing, nutritious break in between activities. 

Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available at most camps to ensure that kids with specific dietary requirements have tasty choices too. Many of the camps use local and organically sourced food.

One of the most exciting parts of camp food is trying something new. Being surrounded by friends who are trying unfamiliar dishes can encourage even the pickiest eaters to expand their palates. 

And of course, there’s always room for treats. S’mores by the campfire, ice cream socials, and cookouts add a little extra sweetness to the camp experience.

Mealtime at camp is about more than just eating — it’s about sharing stories, laughing with friends, and creating lasting memories. 

With such a wide array of food and healthy snack options, every camper is sure to find something they love, making food one of the highlights of the sleep away camp experience.

One of the camps that I visited has an inviting fruit stand accessible to all the campers throughout the day, in which campers gather to share stories of their day’s adventures.

Beyond just the food, the joy of mealtime at camp fosters a sense of togetherness.

Campers gather with new friends, bonding over shared experiences and favorite dishes. The excitement around the table builds happiness, with laughter echoing through the dining hall. This sense of community, combined with the abundance of delicious and nourishing food, adds to the happiness and overall magic of camp. 

Mealtime becomes not just about eating, but about celebrating friendship, fun, and the camp spirit.

Reach Helene Abrams with Tips on Trips and Camps, a free advisory service that helps parents find enriching summer overnight experiences for their children, ages 7-18, at 214-693-9259 or Helene@TipsonTripsandCamps.com.