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!
Types of Ticks
Ticks are small arachnids that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians. There are several types of ticks, each belonging to one of two main families: Ixodidae (hard ticks) and Argasidae (soft ticks). Here are some of the most common types of ticks:
Hard Ticks (Ixodidae)
- Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes scapularis)
- Also known as the deer tick.
- Found primarily in the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, southeastern, and north-central United States.
- Known for transmitting Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Powassan virus.
- Western Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes pacificus)
- Found along the Pacific coast of the United States, especially in California.
- Also a vector for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis.
- American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis)
- Found in the eastern half of the United States and parts of the West Coast.
- Known for transmitting Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia.
- Rocky Mountain Wood Tick (Dermacentor andersoni)
- Found in the Rocky Mountain states and southwestern Canada.
- Can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, and Colorado tick fever.
- Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus)
- Found worldwide and can thrive in homes and kennels.
- Known for transmitting canine ehrlichiosis and canine babesiosis.
- Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum)
- Found in the southeastern and eastern United States.
- Known for causing southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and meat allergy due to alpha-gal syndrome.
- Gulf Coast Tick (Amblyomma maculatum)
- Found in the southeastern United States and along the Gulf Coast.
- Known for transmitting Rickettsia parkeri rickettsiosis and can cause tick paralysis.
Soft Ticks (Argasidae)
- Relapsing Fever Tick (Ornithodoros hermsi)
- Found in the western United States and Canada.
- Known for transmitting tick-borne relapsing fever.
- Fowl Tick (Argas persicus)
- Primarily affects poultry and found worldwide.
- Known to cause significant irritation and anemia in birds.
- Spinose Ear Tick (Otobius megnini)
- Found in the southwestern United States.
- Primarily affects livestock and can cause irritation and secondary infections.
Ticks can vary greatly in appearance, behavior, and the diseases they transmit. Effective tick prevention and control are essential to minimize the risks associated with tick-borne illnesses.
Always try to cover up when being in the outdoors. At Camp Lakewood Campground, we ask to be safe and take caution when hiking or camping.
Camping Mojitos Recipe
Mojitos are a great way to unwind and relax while camping. They are also refreshing too!
Mojito Ingredients:
- 10-12 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- Ice cubes
- 2 ounces white rum
- Club soda or sparkling water
- Optional: a splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda for added sweetness
Equipment:
- Mason jars or sturdy cups
- Muddler or the back of a spoon
- Cooler to keep ingredients cold
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mint and Lime:
- Place the mint leaves and lime wedges into the bottom of a mason jar or cup.
- Add the sugar on top.
- Muddle:
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to mash the mint, lime, and sugar together.
- This helps release the mint oils and lime juice, dissolving the sugar.
- Add Ice and Rum:
- Fill the jar with ice cubes.
- Pour the rum over the ice.
- Top Up:
- Add club soda or sparkling water to fill the jar.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with extra mint leaves and a lime wedge if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Camping:
- Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time:
- Pre-squeeze lime juice and store it in a small container.
- Pre-muddle mint leaves with sugar in a jar so you just have to add the liquid ingredients later.
- Keep Ingredients Cool:
- Use a cooler with plenty of ice packs to keep your mint, lime, and club soda cold.
- Bring Essential Tools:
- Don’t forget to pack a muddler or a sturdy spoon, cups or jars, and a knife for cutting lime wedges.
- Adapt to Your Environment:
- If you’re hiking and need to pack light, consider bringing a pre-made mojito mix in a sealed bottle and just add soda and ice at the campsite.
Enjoy your camping trip with refreshing mojitos!
Enjoy this recipe for Camping Mojitos on your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground!
How To Put Out A Campfire
Putting out a campfire safely is crucial to prevent accidental wildfires. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Allow the fire to burn down: Let the fire burn down to a point where there are mostly embers and small flames.
- Douse with water: Pour water over the fire, starting from the edges and moving towards the center. Use a bucket or a hose, and make sure to saturate all the embers thoroughly.
- Stir and mix: Use a shovel or stick to stir the embers and ash thoroughly. This helps to cool down any remaining hot spots and ensures that all parts of the fire are extinguished.
- Repeat if necessary: Continue adding water and stirring until you’re sure the fire is completely out. It’s better to use too much water than too little to ensure the fire is fully extinguished.
- Feel for heat: Use the back of your hand to feel for any remaining heat above or around the fire pit. If you feel heat, continue adding water and stirring until the area is cool to the touch.
- Dispose of ashes: Once the fire is completely out and the ashes are cool, dispose of them properly. Scatter the ashes in a wide area away from the campsite, or pack them out if required.
- Check for local regulations: Some areas have specific guidelines for extinguishing campfires, so make sure to follow any rules or regulations provided by local authorities or land management agencies.
Remember, never leave a campfire unattended, and always make sure it’s completely extinguished before leaving the site.
At Camp Lakewood Campground, We ask you to be safe and cautious when handling fire.
Grilled Jerk Shrimp
Grilled jerk shrimp is an amazing dish packed with flavor! Here’s a simple recipe to make it:
Grilled Jerk Shrimp Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions For Cooking
- Prepare the shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, jerk seasoning, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Skewer the shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each shrimp.
- Grill the shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and have nice grill marks.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your delicious grilled jerk shrimp as a flavorful appetizer or main dish!
Try this amazing dish on your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground!
DIY Mosquito Repellent Candle
Making your mosquito-repellent candle can be a fun and effective way to keep those pesky insects at bay during outdoor gatherings. Here’s a simple recipe you can try:
Materials:
- Candle wax (soy wax or beeswax are good choices)
- Wick
- Essential oils (such as citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, and/or peppermint)
- Candle container (such as a glass jar)
- Double boiler or heat-safe container for melting wax
- Stirring utensil
- Measuring cup
- Optional: dried herbs like rosemary or mint for added potency
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Work Area: Set up your workspace with all your materials. Make sure the area is well-ventilated as melting wax can produce fumes.
- Prepare Your Container: Place the wick in the center of your candle container. You can use a bit of melted wax to adhere the wick to the bottom of the container and keep it centered.
- Melt the Wax: Use a double boiler or a heat-safe container placed in a pot of water to melt the wax. Heat the water to a gentle simmer and place the wax in the top container. Stir occasionally until the wax is completely melted.
- Add Essential Oils: Once the wax is melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, add your chosen essential oils. Citronella is a popular choice for repelling mosquitoes, but you can also use other oils like eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, and peppermint. Be sure to add enough oil to scent the wax, usually around 30-50 drops per cup of wax, but you can adjust to your preference. Stir the oils into the wax thoroughly.
- Optional: Add Dried Herbs: If you want to boost the potency of your candle, you can add dried herbs like rosemary or mint. Simply stir them into the wax along with the essential oils.
- Pour the Wax: Carefully pour the scented wax into your candle container, making sure not to disturb the wick. Leave a bit of space at the top to avoid overflow.
- Let it Set: Allow the candle to cool and set completely. This can take several hours, depending on the size of your candle.
- Trim the Wick: Once the candle is fully set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch above the wax surface.
Your DIY mosquito repellent candle is now ready to use! When lighting the candle, make sure to place it in a safe location away from flammable materials and never leave it unattended. Enjoy your bug-free outdoor gatherings!
Be a step ahead of the bugs and make your own mosquito repellent candle for your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground.
Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
Fruit salsa with cinnamon sugar tortilla chips is a delightful and refreshing snack or appetizer that combines the freshness of fruit with the crunch of homemade tortilla chips. Here’s a simple recipe for you to enjoy:
Ingredients:
For the fruit salsa:
- 2 cups of diced mixed fruit (such as strawberries, kiwi, mango, pineapple, and/or apple)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (optional, depending on the sweetness of the fruit)
- 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh mint leaves (optional, for added freshness)
For the cinnamon sugar tortilla chips:
- 4-6 flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter or coconut oil
- 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- For the fruit salsa, combine the diced fruit in a mixing bowl. Add lime juice and honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently toss to coat the fruit evenly. Sprinkle with chopped mint leaves, if using. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the tortilla chips.
- For the cinnamon sugar tortilla chips, stack the tortillas on top of each other and use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut them into wedges or desired chip shapes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Brush both sides of the tortilla wedges with melted butter or coconut oil, then sprinkle each side generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Place the coated tortilla wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are in a single layer and not overlapping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortilla chips are crisp and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.
- Once the tortilla chips are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the cinnamon sugar tortilla chips alongside the chilled fruit salsa. Enjoy!
This fruit salsa with cinnamon sugar tortilla chips is perfect for parties, picnics, or as a healthy snack any time of day. Feel free to customize the fruit salsa with your favorite fruits or add-ins for a unique twist!
The perfect recipe for spring and summer camping. Try this recipe on your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground!
Glow-in-the-Dark Ring Toss
A glow-in-the-dark ring toss game can be a fantastic addition to a nighttime party or outdoor event. Here’s how you can create your own glow-in-the-dark ring toss game:
Materials needed:
- Glow sticks or glow bracelets
- Plastic rings (you can purchase these or make them using plastic piping or foam)
- A flat surface for setting up the game (such as a table or the ground)
- Markers or tape (optional, for marking the throwing line)
- Scissors (if using glow sticks that need to be activated)
Instructions:
- Activate the glow sticks or glow bracelets according to the instructions on the packaging. This usually involves snapping or bending the sticks to activate the chemicals inside that create the glow. Make sure they’re glowing brightly before proceeding.
- Arrange the glow sticks or bracelets into a circle shape on the ground to create the targets for the ring toss. You can make multiple circles with varying distances to increase the difficulty level.
- Mark a throwing line using markers or tape. This line should be a suitable distance away from the targets, depending on the age and skill level of the players.
- Distribute the plastic rings to the players. If you’re using homemade rings, make sure they’re lightweight and large enough to easily toss onto the targets.
- Explain the rules of the game to the players. Typically, players take turns tossing their rings from behind the throwing line, trying to land them onto the glowing targets. Assign point values to each target based on its difficulty level (e.g., higher points for smaller circles or farther distances).
- Keep track of each player’s score as they take turns tossing their rings. The player with the highest score at the end of the game wins!
Remember to play the game in a dark or dimly lit area to fully enjoy the effect. Additionally, ensure that the playing area is safe and free from any obstacles that could cause tripping or accidents. Enjoy your glow-in-the-dark ring toss game!
While camping at Camp Lakewood Campground, try out this special Ring Toss!
Campfire Steak and Potatoes Kabobs
Campfire steak and potatoes kabobs are a delicious and hearty outdoor meal perfect for camping or grilling. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
- 8-10 wooden or metal skewers
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
- Optional: your favorite seasoning blend (such as garlic powder, paprika, or steak seasoning)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill or Campfire:
- If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re cooking over a campfire, make sure you have a good bed of hot coals ready.
- Prepare the Skewers:
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Meanwhile, thread the steak, potatoes, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between ingredients.
- Season the Kabobs:
- Season the kabobs generously with salt, pepper, and any additional seasoning blend you prefer. Drizzle olive oil over the assembled kabobs and gently toss to coat them evenly.
- Grill or Cook Over the Campfire:
- Place the kabobs on the preheated grill or over the campfire grate. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve Hot:
- Once the kabobs are cooked, carefully remove them from the grill or campfire. Allow them to cool for a minute or two, then serve hot.
- Optional: Serve with Side Dishes:
- These kabobs are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite side dishes like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your campfire steak and potatoes kabobs! They’re perfect for enjoying the great outdoors with friends and family.
On your next trip to Camp Lakewood Campground, try this recipe for Campfire Steak and Potatoes Kabobs!
Scented Mason Jar Candle
Creating a scented Mason jar candle can be a fun and creative DIY project. Here’s a simple guide to help you make your own scented Mason jar candle:
Materials:
- Mason jar
- Candle wax (soy, paraffin, or a blend)
- Candle wick
- Wick holder or adhesive
- Fragrance oil or essential oil
- Double boiler or microwave-safe container
- Stirring utensil
- Thermometer
- Optional: Dye for coloring (if desired)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Jar:
- Ensure the Mason jar is clean and dry.
- If you like, decorate the jar with ribbon, twine, or any other decorative elements.
- Secure the Wick:
- Attach the wick to the bottom center of the Mason jar using a wick holder or adhesive.
- Ensure the wick is centered and straight.
- Melt the Wax:
- Use a double boiler or a microwave-safe container to melt the candle wax.
- If you’re using a double boiler, place the wax in the top part and heat until melted.
- If using a microwave, heat the wax in short intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.
- Add Fragrance and Color:
- Once the wax is melted, let it cool slightly.
- Add your desired amount of fragrance oil or essential oil. The amount will depend on the type and strength of the fragrance.
- If you want a colored candle, add dye according to the instructions on the packaging. Stir well.
- Check Temperature:
- Use a thermometer to check the wax temperature. Different waxes have different optimal pouring temperatures, so follow the recommendations for your chosen wax.
- Pour the Wax:
- Pour the scented wax into the Mason jar, leaving about half an inch from the top.
- Ensure the wick stays centered as the wax cools.
- Cooling and Finishing:
- Allow the candle to cool completely.
- Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the wax.
- Once fully set, you can decorate the jar further or leave it as is.
- Curing Time:
- Let the candle cure for a day or two to allow the fragrance to fully develop.
Now you have your own scented Mason jar candle! Light it up, and enjoy the cozy ambiance and delightful fragrance.
Puffy S’More Dip
It sounds like you’re interested in making a camping-inspired dish called Puffy S’More Dip. This is a fun and delicious treat that brings the flavors of traditional s’mores into a dip form. Here’s a simple recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup milk
- Graham crackers or cookies for dipping
Instructions:
- Prepare Campfire or Oven:
- If you’re camping, set up a campfire. If you’re at home, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Assemble Ingredients:
- In a cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe dish, combine the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and milk.
- Heat Mixture:
- Place the skillet or dish over the campfire or in the preheated oven. If you’re using a campfire, you can cover the skillet with aluminum foil to help melt the ingredients evenly. Stir occasionally until the chocolate and marshmallows are melted and well combined.
- Serve:
- Once the mixture is smooth and gooey, remove it from the heat.
- Dip and Enjoy:
- Use graham crackers or your favorite cookies to dip into the melted chocolate and marshmallow mixture.
- Optional: Puff it Up:
- If you want to add a “puffy” element, consider bringing along some pre-made biscuit dough or crescent roll dough. Wrap small portions of the dough around the end of a skewer and cook it over the campfire or in the oven until it’s golden brown. Then, use the puffy dough to scoop up the S’More dip.
This Puffy S’More Dip is a delightful and shareable camping treat that captures the essence of traditional s’mores in a new and creative way. Enjoy your camping adventure and the delicious flavors of this sweet dip!
Share this sweet treat around the campfire 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!
