A Message from our Executive Chef Kelly
As the Executive Chef, it is both a privilege and a responsibility to play a role in each camper’s experience. Food is more than just a meal here, it is comfort, connection, and a source of energy that supports every moment of the day.
My approach to food service is rooted in care. Every menu, every ingredient, and every meal is thoughtfully considered with our campers in mind. We strive to create an environment where children feel supported and they are encouraged to try new foods.
Our team is deeply committed to providing meals that are not only nourishing, but also consistent, inclusive, and welcoming. Whether it’s ensuring a camper with allergies feels just as included as their peers, or helping a selective eater find something they enjoy, we take pride in going the extra step.
At the heart of our program is a simple goal: to care for our campers in a meaningful way through food. I am incredibly proud of the team that brings this mission to life each day and grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a special community.
– Kelly McHugh Executive Chef
Our Culinary Program
At the height of the summer season, our team prepares and serves over 2,200 meals each day, delivering a dining experience that is both efficient and thoughtfully crafted. Every meal is designed with intention—balancing familiar favorites with opportunities for campers to explore new flavors and expand their palates in a supportive, welcoming environment.
Our approach to food service goes beyond simply feeding campers—it is a core part of the camp experience. We believe that what we serve plays a vital role in supporting energy, engagement, and overall well-being throughout the day.
A Commitment to Healthy Eating
Our menus are rooted in the principles of the YMCA of the USA’s Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) initiative, with a strong focus on building lifelong healthy habits through food. We are committed to providing meals that are fresh, balanced, and thoughtfully prepared, ensuring that every camper is fueled for a full day of activity.
We prioritize the use of high-quality ingredients and preparation methods that support both nutrition and flavor. Meals regularly feature freshly grilled and marinated proteins, seasonal vegetables that are steamed or roasted, and recipes prepared from scratch whenever possible. Our kitchens avoid highly processed items and instead focus on building meals that provide sustained energy, rather than relying on excess sugars or artificial ingredients.
This approach allows us to serve food that is not only nourishing, but also enjoyable—helping campers develop a positive relationship with healthy eating in an environment where they feel comfortable trying new things.
Allergy Awareness & Inclusivity
The health and safety of our campers is our highest priority. We are proud to operate as a peanut-friendly facility, with no direct peanut ingredients used in our food. Our team is fully equipped to accommodate a wide range of food allergies and dietary needs.
Our team works closely with families to ensure that all dietary restrictions are clearly understood and safely managed. Whenever possible, allergy-friendly meals are thoughtfully designed to closely mirror the main menu, allowing all campers to share a similar dining experience without feeling excluded.
We are committed to creating an environment where every camper can eat safely, confidently, and comfortably.
Flexible & Camper-Friendly Options
We recognize that every camper has different preferences, appetites, and comfort levels when it comes to food. This includes diets that are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and more. To support this, we offer consistent and reliable options at every meal.
In addition to our main menu offerings, campers always have access to a sandwich and salad bar during lunch and dinner, featuring sunbutter and jelly, deli selections, cheeses, and fresh vegetables. Cereal is available at every meal, and fresh fruit is always offered throughout the dining hall, ensuring that simple, familiar options are readily accessible.
Our food service team is always available and happy to work with campers who may be hesitant or selective eaters. If a camper is struggling to find something they are comfortable eating, our staff will make every effort to provide an alternative so that no camper leaves the dining hall without a meal.
Private Events & Catering
In addition to our camp dining program, we are proud to offer customized culinary experiences for private events held on our property. From weddings and celebrations to corporate gatherings and special events, our team works closely with each group to create thoughtful, high-quality menus tailored to their vision.
With a focus on fresh ingredients, professional execution, and exceptional service, we aim to make every event both seamless and memorable.
For menu options and pricing, please contact [email protected].