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!
How to Fillet a Fish
Filleting a fish involves removing the bones and separating the edible flesh from the rest of the fish. Here’s a basic guide on how to fillet a fish:
Materials needed:
- Whole fish
- Sharp fillet knife
- Cutting board
- Towel or paper towel
Steps:
- Prepare your workspace:
- Make sure your cutting board is clean and secure.
- Have a towel or paper towel nearby to wipe your hands and the knife.
- Scale the fish (optional):
- Use a fish scaler or the back of a knife to remove scales if the fish is not already scaled.
- Remove the head (optional):
- Some people prefer to fillet the fish with the head on, while others prefer to remove it. If you want to remove the head, cut just behind the pectoral fin and gill plate, angling the cut slightly towards the head.
- Make the initial cut:
- Lay the fish on its side and make a deep, diagonal cut behind the pectoral fin, down to the spine. This cut will be the starting point for the fillet.
- Follow the spine:
- With the initial cut made, turn the knife and run it along the spine, keeping the blade close to the bones. Use smooth, sweeping motions, and let the knife guide along the contour of the fish.
- Lift the fillet:
- As you cut, use your free hand to gently lift and separate the fillet from the bones. Continue cutting until you reach the tail.
- Repeat on the other side:
- Flip the fish and repeat the process on the other side.
- Remove the rib cage:
- Once both fillets are removed, you can trim the rib cage by making a cut along the rib bones on each fillet.
- Skinning (optional):
- If you prefer skinless fillets, you can use a knife to separate the skin from the flesh. Make a small cut at the tail end and hold the skin taut while sliding the knife between the skin and the flesh.
- Inspect and clean:
- Check for any remaining bones or scales on the fillets. Trim away any dark or red meat, if desired.
Final Thoughts:
Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to filleting fish. It may take a few attempts to become proficient, so be patient and take your time. Additionally, always use a sharp knife to ensure clean and precise cuts.
Try this neat skill on your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground!
Hamburger Hobo Pack
For a Campfire Hamburger Hobo Pack, you might create a foil packet containing ingredients for a hamburger. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- Ground beef or ground turkey
- Sliced vegetables (e.g., onions, bell peppers, mushrooms)
- Potatoes, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or other seasonings
Instructions:
- Preheat your campfire or camping stove.
- In a bowl, mix the ground meat with seasonings of your choice.
- Tear off a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Place a portion of the seasoned ground meat in the center of the foil.
- Add sliced vegetables and potatoes on top of the meat.
- Season the entire packet with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings.
- Fold the foil over the ingredients and seal the edges tightly, creating a secure packet.
- Place the foil packet directly on the campfire grill or in the hot coals.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning the packet halfway through the cooking time.
- Carefully open the packet (watch out for steam) and check if the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Hobo Packs are customizable, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings based on your preferences. This method is a fun and convenient way to cook a delicious meal while camping.
Try this foil pack on your next trip to Camp Lakewood Campground!
How to Measure the Remaining Sun with Your Hand
Measuring the remaining sun with your hand is a simple and practical way to estimate the time until sunset. This method relies on the fact that your hand span (from the tip of your thumb to the tip of your pinky when fully extended) is approximately equal to 15 degrees of the sky’s arc. Here’s a basic guide:
- Find a flat, horizontal surface: Place your hand perpendicular to the ground, with your fingers extended and held together.
- Align your hand with the horizon: Hold your hand so that the bottom edge aligns with the horizon.
- Count the number of finger widths between the sun and the horizon: Each finger width corresponds roughly to about 15 minutes of daylight. Your hand span, from the tip of your thumb to the tip of your pinky, represents about one hour.
- Four finger widths: About one hour until the sun sets.
- Three finger widths: About 45 minutes until the sun sets.
- Two finger widths: About 30 minutes until the sun sets.
- One finger width: About 15 minutes until the sun sets.
Keep in mind that these are rough estimates, and the actual time until sunset can vary based on your location and the time of year. Additionally, atmospheric conditions and the specific geography of your surroundings may affect the accuracy of this method. It’s always a good idea to use other means, such as a clock or a smartphone, for more precise timekeeping.
You never know when you might need survival tips in case of a zombie apocalypse. Anyway, book your next camping trip at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Campfire Hot Chocolate
Campfire hot chocolate is a delightful twist on traditional hot chocolate, perfect for enjoying around a campfire or even at home to evoke the cozy feeling of a campfire experience. Here’s a simple recipe for campfire hot chocolate:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of milk (whole milk for creamier hot chocolate)
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of high-quality semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
Optional Add-ins:
- Peppermint extract for a minty flavor
- Cinnamon for a hint of warmth
- Whipped cream for extra indulgence
- Crushed graham crackers for a s’mores-inspired touch
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, mix the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Once the milk is simmering, gradually whisk in the chocolate mixture until it’s completely melted and well combined. Continue to heat and stir until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you’re using any optional add-ins, like peppermint extract or cinnamon, add them at this point.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with mini marshmallows.
- If you’re by a campfire, enjoy your hot chocolate while basking in the warmth of the fire. If you’re at home, find a cozy spot to savor the deliciousness.
Feel free to customize this recipe according to your preferences. It’s a comforting and indulgent treat that’s perfect for chilly evenings, whether you’re camping or just looking to add a touch of campfire ambiance to your day.
Try this warm-cozy recipe on your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground.
DIY Fishing Hooks
Creating your own fishing hooks can be a challenging DIY project, but it’s possible if you have the necessary tools and materials. Keep in mind that this process can be time-consuming and requires some skill in metalworking. Here are the basic steps to make DIY fishing hooks:
Materials and Tools:
- Wire: You’ll need a suitable wire material. Stainless steel or high-carbon steel are common choices.
- Pliers: Needle-nose pliers, round-nose pliers, and cutting pliers are essential.
- Vise: A vise will help you secure the wire during bending and shaping.
- File or Sandpaper: For smoothing and sharpening the hook point.
- Heat Source: If you’re working with stainless steel, you might need a heat source to soften the wire for shaping.
Steps:
- Select the Wire: Choose the appropriate wire diameter and material based on the type of fish you plan to catch. Thicker wire is typically used for larger fish.
- Cut the Wire: Use cutting pliers to cut a length of wire to start with. The length will depend on the hook size you want to create.
- Bend the Hook: Using needle-nose pliers, bend the wire to create the hook shape. You’ll want a straight section for the shank, a curved section for the bend, and a pointed end for the hook.
- Sharpen the Point: Use a file or sandpaper to sharpen the hook’s point. A sharp point is essential for catching fish effectively.
- Form the Eye: If you want to create a hook with an eye for attaching fishing line or a lure, use round-nose pliers to create the eyelet at the top of the hook.
- Harden and Temper the Hook (optional): If you’re using stainless steel, you may need to heat the hook with a propane torch and then quench it in water to harden it. This step can make the hook more durable, but it requires caution.
- Test Your Hook: Make sure the hook is sharp and strong. You can use a sharpening stone or file to further refine the point.
- Clean and Finish: Remove any sharp edges or burrs from the hook. A clean finish will prevent injury when handling it.
- Optional Coating: You can apply a corrosion-resistant coating or paint to your hook if desired.
Remember that creating your own fishing hooks can be a challenging task, and it may take some practice to perfect the art of making effective hooks. Additionally, some areas have regulations on the use of homemade hooks for fishing, so be sure to check local fishing regulations before using your DIY hooks.
Try this FIY out at your next visit to Camp Lakewood Campground.
Campfire Orange Cakes
Campfire orange cakes are a delightful and creative outdoor cooking treat. These cakes are typically made by hollowing out oranges, filling them with cake batter, and then cooking them over a campfire. The heat from the fire cooks the cake, and the orange peel imparts a unique and citrusy flavor to the dessert. Here’s a basic recipe to make campfire orange cakes:
Ingredients:
- Oranges (one per serving)
- Cake mix (you can use pre-made cake mix or make your own from scratch)
- Water and any other ingredients required by the cake mix
- Aluminum foil
Instructions:
- Start by cutting the top off each orange. This will serve as a lid for the orange.
- Scoop out the inside of the orange, being careful not to damage the peel. You can use a spoon or knife to help with this process. You want to remove the flesh and pith, leaving just the hollow orange peel.
- Prepare your cake batter according to the package instructions or your favorite cake recipe. This typically involves mixing the cake mix with water (or other liquid) and any necessary ingredients.
- Fill each hollowed-out orange with the cake batter, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Place the orange lids back on top of the filled oranges.
- Wrap each orange in aluminum foil. Make sure the foil is securely wrapped around the orange to prevent any leakage.
- Place the wrapped oranges on a grate or in a campfire ring. You can also use a grill over a campfire for more controlled cooking.
- Cook the oranges in the campfire coals or on the grill for about 20-30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the heat of your fire, so check one orange first to see if the cake is fully cooked.
- Carefully unwrap an orange, remove the lid, and check the cake’s doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Let the campfire orange cakes cool for a few minutes before enjoying. You can eat the cake right out of the orange peel, or you can scoop it out onto a plate or into a bowl.
Campfire orange cakes are a fun and tasty camping or outdoor activity treat that can be customized with various cake flavors and toppings. They’re not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy a sweet treat while spending time in nature.
Try this fun and delicious recipe with your family on your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground!
Fire Starters
Fire starters are essential tools for igniting fires in various outdoor and survival situations. They come in different forms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some common types of fire starters:
- Matches: Matches are a classic fire-starting tool that consists of a small stick with a phosphorous tip. When struck against a rough surface, the phosphorous ignites, creating a flame. There are two main types of matches: safety matches and strike-anywhere matches.
- Lighters: Lighters are convenient and easy-to-use fire starters. They typically use butane gas as fuel and have a built-in ignition mechanism. Disposable lighters are cheap and widely available, while refillable lighters are more durable and can be refilled when empty.
- Ferrocerium Rods (Firesteel or Ferro Rods): Ferrocerium rods are popular among survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts. When you strike a metal object against the rod, it generates sparks that can ignite tinder or fuel. They are durable and work in wet conditions.
- Flint and Steel: Flint and steel kits consist of a piece of flint and a steel striker. When the steel is struck against the flint, it produces sparks, which can be directed onto tinder to start a fire. This method requires practice but can be effective.
- Fire Pistons: Fire pistons use the principle of rapidly compressing air to ignite a piece of tinder. When you push down on the piston, the air inside heats up, igniting the tinder at the end of the piston. This method can be challenging to master.
- Firestarter Cubes or Blocks: These are pre-made blocks or cubes made of materials like wax and sawdust. They are easy to light and can burn for a while, making them a reliable fire starter. You can find commercial firestarter products or make your own.
- Magnesium Fire Starters: These typically consist of a block of magnesium and a flint or striker. You shave off small magnesium shavings onto your tinder, and then use the striker to create sparks, which ignite the magnesium shavings.
- Solar Fire Starters: These fire starters use a magnifying lens or parabolic mirror to focus sunlight onto tinder, igniting it. They are a renewable and low-tech option but require sunny conditions.
- Electric Arc Lighters: Electric arc lighters use a high-voltage electric arc to ignite tinder. They are windproof and can be rechargeable, making them a good choice for certain conditions.
- Chemical Fire Starters: These are often used as emergency fire starters. They consist of chemicals that, when mixed or ignited, produce a hot flame. Examples include fire starter sticks, fire starter gels, and fire starter pouches.
- Fire Starting Kits: These kits often include a combination of fire-starting tools, such as matches, lighters, ferrocerium rods, and other items, providing redundancy and versatility.
The choice of fire starter depends on factors like your environment, skill level, and personal preferences. It’s a good idea to carry multiple fire starters, especially in survival situations, to ensure you can start a fire regardless of the conditions you encounter.
Luckily at Camp Lakewood Campground, we sell fire starters in our shop. Stop in on your next visit!
Campfire Popcorn
Cooking popcorn over a campfire can be a fun and delicious outdoor activity. Here’s a simple method to make campfire popcorn using a campfire and a few basic ingredients:
Ingredients:
- Popcorn kernels
- Cooking oil (vegetable oil or coconut oil work well)
- Aluminum foil
- Campfire or open flame
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Materials:
- Tear off a sheet of aluminum foil, approximately 2-3 feet long.
- Place a handful of popcorn kernels in the center of the foil.
- Add Oil:
- Drizzle a small amount of cooking oil (about a teaspoon) over the popcorn kernels. This helps them pop and gives the popcorn flavor.
- Fold the Foil:
- Fold the aluminum foil in half over the popcorn kernels to create a pouch.
- Seal the Pouch:
- Fold the edges of the foil over several times to create a sealed pouch. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent the popcorn from popping out.
- Prepare the Campfire:
- Build a campfire and let it burn down to create hot coals. You want a bed of hot embers rather than a roaring flame.
- Place the Popcorn Pouch on the Coals:
- Carefully place the sealed popcorn pouch on the hot embers of the campfire. Use long tongs or a stick to position it.
- Wait for Popping Sounds:
- As the campfire heats the pouch, you’ll start to hear the popcorn kernels pop. This can take a few minutes, so be patient.
- Remove from the Fire:
- Once the popping slows down significantly (similar to microwave popcorn), carefully remove the pouch from the fire using tongs or a stick.
- Let It Cool:
- Allow the pouch to cool for a minute or two. Be cautious when opening the pouch as steam may escape, and the popcorn will be hot.
- Enjoy:
- Carefully open the pouch, and your popcorn is ready to eat! You can season it with salt, butter, or any other toppings you like.
Final Thoughts:
Remember to exercise caution when working with a campfire and open flames. Safety should always be a priority when cooking outdoors. Additionally, be mindful of the environment, and clean up any trash or foil when you’re done enjoying your campfire popcorn.
Try out this salty snack with your family on your next trip to Camp Lakewood Campground.
Fishing Tips
Of course, I’d be happy to share some fishing tips with you! Fishing can be a relaxing and rewarding outdoor activity. Here are some tips to help you have a successful fishing experience:
Tips
- Choose the Right Equipment:
- Select the appropriate fishing rod and reel for your target species and fishing location.
- Use the right fishing line (monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braided) based on your fishing style and the fish you’re targeting.
- Make sure your hooks are sharp to improve your hookset success.
- Know the Fishing Regulations:
- Familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations, including catch limits, size restrictions, and fishing seasons.
- Obtain any necessary fishing licenses or permits before you start fishing.
- Understand the Habitat:
- Research the fishing location to understand the types of fish that inhabit the area and their preferred habitats.
- Learn about the feeding habits and behavior of the fish you’re targeting.
- Use Proper Bait and Lures:
- Choose bait or lures that mimic the natural prey of the fish you’re targeting.
- Consider using live bait, artificial lures, or a combination of both depending on the conditions and species.
- Practice Casting:
- Work on your casting accuracy and distance. Practice in an open area before heading to the water.
- Learn different casting techniques such as overhead casting, sidearm casting, and flipping/pitching.
- Pay Attention to Weather and Conditions:
- Fish are often more active during certain weather conditions. Overcast days and low light conditions can be ideal for fishing.
- Be aware of tides, moon phases, and water temperature as they can influence fish behavior.
- Be Patient:
- Fishing requires patience. Sometimes it takes time for the fish to become interested in your bait or lure.
- Avoid making sudden movements that might scare away fish.
- Practice Catch and Release:
- If you’re not keeping the fish you catch, handle them gently and release them properly to ensure their survival.
- Use proper tools for removing hooks to minimize stress on the fish.
- Stay Safe:
- Wear appropriate clothing and gear for the weather and environment.
- Be cautious of slippery surfaces, especially when fishing near water bodies.
- Learn from Others:
- If you’re new to fishing, consider fishing with experienced anglers or taking local fishing classes.
- Watch fishing videos, read books, and participate in online fishing forums to learn from other anglers.
Final Thoughts
Remember that fishing is not only about catching fish but also about enjoying the outdoors and the experience. Every fishing trip is a learning opportunity, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything on a particular day. With practice and persistence, you’ll improve your skills and have more successful outings.
Try these new tips and tricks on your next visit with us at Camp Lakewood Campground.
Campfire Queso
Campfire queso sounds like a delicious and cozy treat that you might enjoy around a campfire. Please note that campfire cooking can vary depending on your equipment and preferences, so feel free to adapt the recipe as needed.
Campfire Queso Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of your favorite melting cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.), shredded
- 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1/2 cup of milk or cream
- 1/4 cup of chopped onion
- 1/4 cup of chopped bell peppers (mix of colors)
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked crumbled sausage, cooked ground beef, or cooked chopped vegetables for added flavor and texture
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare your campfire. You’ll need a steady bed of hot coals to cook over, or a campfire grate.
- In a heat-resistant pot or skillet suitable for campfire cooking, combine the shredded cheese and milk/cream. Place the pot on a heat-resistant surface near the campfire (not directly over open flames) to melt the cheese, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cheese starts melting, add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chopped onion, and chopped bell peppers. Stir to combine.
- Season the mixture with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. If you’re adding optional cooked meats or vegetables, now’s the time to add them.
- Keep the mixture warm over the campfire, stirring occasionally to prevent burning or sticking. You want everything to be well combined and heated through.
- Once the queso is fully melted, hot, and well mixed, it’s ready to serve.
- If desired, garnish the campfire queso with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve the campfire queso with tortilla chips, chunks of crusty bread, or your favorite dipping items.
Remember that cooking over a campfire can be a bit unpredictable, so be prepared to adjust cooking times and methods based on the intensity of the fire and the equipment you’re using. Safety is paramount, so always make sure you’re following proper campfire safety guidelines.
Enjoy your delicious campfire queso and the wonderful outdoor ambiance!
Try this tasty dip at your next visit with us 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!
