Past a mosquito net-curtained doorway, the glow of grill charcoal and lanterns beckons. Leafy vines—as well as brassieres and life jackets—hang from the ceiling. At the back of a bar that comfortably seats about 20 is a small stage where camp activities take an adults-only turn. A cast of camp counselors, nurses, park rangers and occasionally Bigfoot turn sing-alongs into raunchy air guitar solos, and talent shows into stripteases.
After hosting a holiday pop-up in December, Palms and ThemeDream Productions bring a new themed experience to wet your whistle for summer nostalgia with over-the-top decor, live actors and themed food and cocktails.
Like the actors, the food is overzealous, hilariously presented and meant to be shared. A trio of overdressed hot dogs ($22) “smokes” on a mini grill. Ritz crackers, housemade pickles and three different dips—grilled smoked trout, spicy pimento cheese and Wagyu beef and bean chili—come in the Starter Trail ($14). For dessert, gooey s’mores fundido dip ($12) topped with roasted marshmallows sparks memories around the campire.
Creative cocktails make for happy campers here. The Red, White and Boom ($16) comes with a glass of prosecco with a patriotic popsicle in it. The Tito’s-based When Camp Gives You Lemons ($18) is a refreshing delight that tastes less like real lemon and more like yellow Skittles. It also wins the Most Fun Presentation Award, as it arrives in a flamingo floatie. Bigfoot’s Watermelon Smash ($16) features fresh watermelon puree, Botanist Gin and fresh lime juice.
But don’t expect to enjoy your meal or drink in peace—Camp Director Larry will let you know when he needs your attention by blowing a whistle, bringing you back to your gym class days. Camp Counselor Sandy wows onlookers with her risqué finger-painting act. Ranger Rick goes around to tables giving merit badges for the slightest achievements, and Bigfoot makes an occasional appearance for photo ops.
Camp Palms invites you to leave adulthood at the door, gather ’round the fire and embrace your inner camper. And with no cover, there’s no reason not to enjoy it while you can—summer camp doesn’t last forever.
CAMP PALMS Thru August 9, Wednesday-Sunday 5 p.m.-late. Palms, palms.com.
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