There are a number of important criteria that create a happy environment for a child at summer camp. Clearly, the campers and counselors in your child’s bunk are essential. Feeling loved and cared for by the counselors and the camp’s administrators give a child a sense of comfort. But, I have never taken for granted the importance of having great food at camp. Our dining facility is a crucial part of a child’s camp experience.
The dining room is the only facility that your child visits three times a day, every day at camp. When we built our new dining hall eleven years ago, I focused on the aesthetics. I wanted the building to be inviting for all of the campers and staff members. The large floor-to-ceiling windows allow plenty of natural sunlight to enter, and also provide magnificent views of Long Lake and towering pine trees. The beautiful beams create a natural and rustic setting that makes for a warm and soothing family feel.
Sometimes I am questioned as to why I put air conditioning in the building. It is never on a low setting, however, it is just enough to take the humidity out of the air on a steamy Maine afternoon. Most children do not like to eat when they are hot and sweaty. Therefore, a climate-controlled building cools our campers down just enough to jump-start their appetites. When children don’t eat at camp, they get run down and dehydrated, which in turn, makes campers sick and unhappy.
This information was essential in the planning and design of the picturesque facility. When Head Chef Norm Charette retired two years ago after thirty years of preparing spectacular meals, we thought that we may never get back to the high standards we hold so dear. This year, we have assembled an amazing culinary crew, led by our new Head Chef Mike DeBerry.
Camp Takajo Head Chef Mike DeBerry
At every meal, our campers have a wide variety of options. During breakfasts, our cold bar is filled with fresh fruits and yogurt. The cold cereal options are plentiful, and there is always a hot option from the grill, as well as baked goods, made from scratch. Our lunches include the traditional favorites, such as pizza, and chicken nuggets. However, a child can always visit our deli counter for a cold cut sandwich or go up to a serving window for a hot grilled cheese. We love to include protein at dinners. Chicken has been a big success. However, our boys can always visit the pasta bar, which presents a wonderful, alternative choice. At Camp Takajo, we pride ourselves on attention to detail and having your son leave our dining hall feeling happy, well-fed and content.
