Heres Some Camping Tips & Tricks at Your Fingertips
Our Kiefer Campground Blog is the information you need to make your next camping trip even more enjoyable. From RV and camping tips and tricks, to amazing campfire recipes, to advice on planning your next trip... the information below is here to help you. And please, feel free to comment and share your experiences, knowledge and favorite recipes. At Kiefer Campground, we are a family and all here to help each other enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest!
What to Pack for a Picnic
Packing for a picnic can be delightful and straightforward with the right items. Here’s a checklist of essentials to bring along for a memorable picnic outing:
Essential Picnic Items:
- Picnic Basket or Cooler: Choose a sturdy picnic basket or a cooler depending on the type of food and drinks you plan to bring.
- Blanket or Picnic Mat: Select a comfortable, waterproof blanket or mat to sit on.
- Portable Chairs or Cushions: Optional, but chairs or cushions can add extra comfort.
- Food Containers and Utensils:
- Plates, bowls, and utensils (forks, knives, spoons)
- Napkins or paper towels
- Cutting board and knife for food prep
- Drinks:
- Water
- Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea
- Wine or champagne (if desired), along with a corkscrew or bottle opener
- Food: Pack a variety of picnic-friendly foods such as:
- Sandwiches or wraps
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Cheese and crackers
- Salads (e.g., pasta salad, leafy salad)
- Chips or pretzels
- Desserts (cookies, brownies, fruit tarts)
- Condiments and Extras:
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil and vinegar for salads
- Jam or spreads
- Ketchup and Mustard for sandwiches
- Sun Protection:
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Bug Protection:
- Insect repellent
- Citronella candles or bug spray (if dining in the evening)
- Entertainment:
- Books or magazines
- Portable speaker for music
- Outdoor games (frisbee, ball, cards)
- Cleanup Supplies:
- Trash bags for collecting garbage
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
- Optional Comfort Items:
- Picnic umbrella or canopy for shade
- Insulated food containers to keep food hot or cold
- Extra blankets or pillows for relaxation
Tips for Packing:
- Keep Cold Foods Cold: Use ice packs or freeze water bottles to keep perishable items fresh.
- Pack Securely: Use containers that seal well to prevent leaks and spills.
- Minimize Waste: Opt for reusable plates and utensils to reduce environmental impact.
By packing thoughtfully and considering your preferences, you can enjoy a relaxing and delicious picnic outdoors with friends or family at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Campfire Potato Soup
Campfire potato soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for serving larger groups or families. Here’s a simple recipe that you can prepare over a campfire:
Ingredients:
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or substitute with evaporated milk for a creamier texture)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, cooked bacon bits, sour cream
Equipment Needed:
- Large heavy-duty pot or Dutch oven
- Stirring spoon
- Campfire with grate or tripod
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fire:
- Start your campfire and let it burn down to hot coals. You’ll need a stable and consistent heat source for cooking.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over the campfire. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Broth:
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes are covered.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook over the campfire, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Mash or Blend:
- Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash or blend the soup to your desired consistency. Leave some chunks for texture if preferred.
- Add Milk and Cheese:
- Stir in the milk (or evaporated milk) and shredded cheddar cheese if using. Continue cooking over the campfire, stirring frequently, until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions, bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the campfire potato soup hot, alongside toasted bread or cornbread for a complete meal outdoors.
This hearty and delicious potato soup will warm you up during your camping adventures. Adjust the ingredients and seasonings according to your taste preferences and enjoy the cozy campfire cooking experience at Camp Lakewood Campground!
How to Make Dream Catchers
Making a dream catcher is a fun and creative craft project that involves weaving and decorating. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own dream catcher:
Materials Needed:
- Metal or wooden hoop (6-8 inches in diameter)
- Suede lace, leather cord, or yarn
- Waxed string, embroidery floss, or thread
- Beads and feathers
- Scissors
- Glue (optional)
- Decorative items (optional: charms, ribbons, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hoop
- Wrap the Hoop: Start by wrapping the hoop with the suede lace or leather cord. Secure the end with a knot or a dab of glue and begin wrapping tightly until the entire hoop is covered. Finish with another knot or glue.
2. Create the Web
- Attach the Web String: Cut a long piece of waxed string or embroidery floss (about 6-8 feet). Tie one end to the hoop with a knot.
- First Loop: Create the first loop by pulling the string across the hoop and making a loop by wrapping the string around the hoop and pulling it through.
- Continue Looping: Move along the hoop, spacing the loops evenly (about 1-2 inches apart). Continue this process around the hoop.
- Second Round: When you complete the first round, start the second by looping the string through the middle of each section of the first round.
- Tighten the Web: Continue weaving, pulling the string through the loops of the previous round, gradually working towards the center. Adjust the tension to keep the web tight.
- Finish the Web: When you reach the center, tie a knot to secure the end. You can add a bead in the center for decoration before tying the final knot.
3. Add Beads and Feathers
- Attach Feathers: Cut a few shorter pieces of suede lace or string. Tie one end of each to the bottom of the hoop. Slide a bead onto the lace or string, and then insert the end of a feather into the bead to hold it in place. You can secure with a drop of glue if needed.
- Additional Decorations: Add more beads, charms, or decorative items to the lace or string as desired.
4. Create a Hanging Loop
- Top Loop: Cut a small piece of suede lace or string. Tie it to the top of the hoop to create a loop for hanging your dream catcher.
Optional: Personalize Your Dream Catcher
- Use Colored Threads: Incorporate different colors of thread for a more vibrant look.
- Add Charms and Ribbons: Decorate with charms, ribbons, or other items that hold personal significance.
- Customize the Size: Use different sizes of hoops to create a set of dream catchers in varying sizes.
Step-by-Step Summary:
- Wrap the Hoop: Cover the hoop with suede lace or leather cord.
- Create the Web: Weave the web by looping the string around the hoop, working towards the center.
- Add Decorations: Attach feathers and beads to the bottom of the hoop.
- Hanging Loop: Tie a loop at the top for hanging.
- Personalize: Add any additional decorations or personal touches.
By following these steps, you can create a personalized beautiful, and unique dream catcher that reflects your style and creativity! Try this crafting activity next time you stay at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Grilled Cheese Recipe
Here’s a simple and delicious grilled cheese recipe perfect for camping:
Ingredients:
- Bread (sliced, your choice of type)
- Cheese (cheddar, white cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, or your favorite type)
- Butter or margarine
- Optional: additional fillings (tomatoes, ham, bacon, etc.)
Equipment:
- Campfire or portable stove
- Cast iron skillet or griddle
- Spatula
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fire/Grill:
- If using a campfire, get a good bed of hot coals going. If using a portable stove, set it to medium heat.
- Butter the Bread:
- Spread butter or margarine evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Place a slice of cheese (and any additional fillings if using) between two slices of bread, with the buttered sides facing outwards.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Place the cast iron skillet or griddle over the campfire or stove and let it heat up.
- Cook the Sandwich:
- Place the assembled sandwich on the hot skillet. Cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Use the spatula to press down gently to help the cheese melt.
- Flip and Cook:
- Carefully flip the sandwich with the spatula and cook the other side until it is also golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Then, slice it in half and enjoy your delicious grilled cheese.
Tips:
- Keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning. Adjust the skillet’s position if necessary.
- Experiment with different types of bread and cheese for variety.
- Add some herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Enjoy your grilled cheese sandwiches at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Family owned and operated, Kiefer Campgrounds strive to offer you the best rates for a comfortable location with outstanding service, and spotless facilities. When you stay in one of our parks, you are no longer just a happy camper, but a part of our family! We are most certain you will enjoy your stay with us. Pick your favorite location and book your spot now before it’s too late! You’ll be happy you did!
