Camp Kitchen Creativity: Making Healthy Meals Exciting for Young Campers

By: Julia Krier

At Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation, camps are a space for fun, learning, and adventure—an opportunity for children to discover new experiences, including the joy of healthy foods. By introducing kids to nutritious snacks in a playful and hands-on way, we inspire them to make healthier choices that last beyond camp.

Why Healthy Foods Matter in Camp Settings

Healthy eating is essential for the physical and mental well-being of growing children. Camp provides a unique opportunity to present foods in an engaging manner that excites kids to try them. When children participate in preparing their snacks, they become more interested in the ingredients and are more willing to explore new tastes. This creates an environment where healthy eating is not just encouraged—it’s fun!

The Power of Engagement: Hands-On Food Activities

During our fall break Student Stewards camp, one of the highlights was preparing and enjoying our themed snacks. A big hit among campers was the “Witch and Chips Guac,” a spooky twist on a classic healthy treat that tied into our “Spooky Science” theme. This hands-on kitchen activity allowed campers to discover how easy and delicious it is to make healthy snacks from scratch by mixing fresh ingredients to create their own guacamole.

When kids feel like they’ve made something themselves, it becomes more than just a snack—it’s an accomplishment that sparks curiosity about other nutritious foods.

Building Healthy Habits Beyond Camp

Introducing children to new, healthy foods in a fun, engaging camp setting can leave a lasting impression. When we show kids how simple it is to create something delicious and nutritious, we empower them with the knowledge and confidence to make healthier choices independently. Whether it’s crafting a spooky guac snack or learning about fresh ingredients, these experiences lay the foundation for a healthier lifestyle.

At Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation, we are proud to create spaces where kids connect not only with nature but also with the food that fuels their bodies and minds. By combining outdoor activities with healthy food choices, we continue our mission of fostering lifelong stewardship of both the environment and personal well-being.

Recipe: Witch and Chips Guac

Here’s the fun and simple recipe we used at camp, perfect for a spooky fall snack or any time of the year:

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe avocados

• 1 lime (juiced)

• 1 small tomato (diced)

• 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)

• 1 garlic clove (minced)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Corn tortilla chips (preferably blue corn for a “witchy” look)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash the avocado with a fork until smooth, leaving a few chunks for texture.

2. Add the flavor: Stir in the lime juice, diced tomato, chopped red onion, and minced garlic.

3. Season: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, mixing until evenly combined.

4. Serve: Arrange blue corn tortilla chips for dipping, creating “witch’s hats and broomsticks.”

5. Enjoy: Let the kids dig in and savor their spooky, nutritious snack!

   
   

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About the Author

Julia Krier  (she/her/hers)

Camps and Youth Recreation Manager

Julia graduated from Western Connecticut State University earning a BS in Health Promotion Studies, with a concentration in community health and a minor in holistic health. Julia is passionate about helping people lead healthier and more active lifestyles. After graduating college she spent 2 months in Costa Rica studying yoga and meditation where she received her 200 hour YTT certification. Previously serving as the Programs and Events Coordinator, and VISTA Leader Julia is excited to join the Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation staff as Camps and Youth Recretaion Manager.  Outside of work she loves practicing yoga, and spending her free time exploring the outdoors.