Archive for Camping – Page 3

Easy Camping Meals That Are Also Healthy

With a portable camp kitchen like the Summit, it’s now much easier to cook gourmet meals while camping. That said, it’s always a good idea to have a few easy meals in mind for when you’re tired and need a break from cooking. These easy camping meals are still healthy, and they require little work to prepare.

Breakfast: Oatmeal

Oatmeal is perfect for breakfast because it comprises whole grains and is substantial enough to keep you energized throughout the day. All you need are instant oats, water, and any toppings you might like to include. When buying instant oats, be sure to look for Original and avoid buying flavored packets, which contain added sugar. After cooking your oatmeal, add fruits, nuts, and other healthy toppings as desired.

Lunch: Black Bean & Mango Salad

Nutritious food can also be delicious if you choose the right meals. This salad is refreshing on a hot summer’s day and is great if you have any vegetarians camping with you. All you need are black beans, mangos, a sweet red bell pepper, onions, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, and a dash of salt. To make this meal even easier, prepare the salad beforehand and store it in a cooler. That way, all you’ll have to do is serve the meal when you’re ready for lunch.

Dinner: Grilled Chicken Tikka

When you’re burnt out from a full day of activities, take it easy and make grilled chicken tikka for dinner. Before your camping trip, simply marinate boneless chicken pieces in a mixture of tandoori paste and plain Greek yogurt, then freeze it in a Ziplock bag. Make sure the chicken is fully thawed before grilling.

Snacks: Cut-up Veggies and Hummus

Instead of bringing along a bag of potato chips for an easy snack, cut up vegetables like carrots and broccoli that the family can snack on throughout the day. If you don’t like to eat veggies plain, hummus is a healthy alternative to vegetable dips.

Camping can be exhausting, so give yourself a break now and then with these easy and healthy camping meals.

Jazz up Your Camping Recipes and Get out of Your Meal Rut

When you think of “traditional camp foods,” what comes to mind? Probably s’mores and hot dogs, right? If that’s the case, then maybe it’s time to throw something new into the mix. Many campers stick with typical camp foods because it’s what they know, but you can easily branch out and create a whole new menu with the right cooking kits like the Outdoorsman and these three camping recipes.

1. Chicken Kebabs

Swap out those hot dogs and hamburgers for a healthier alternative. With lean meat and veggies, chicken kebabs make healthy eating easy!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. boneless chicken breast cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped
  • salt and pepper
  • herbs de Provence (or any of your favorite spices)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 3 green peppers, sliced
  • 3 red peppers, sliced
  • 6 Vidalia onions, quartered and separated
  • 1 pint baby portabella mushrooms
  • 12 bamboo BBQ skewers

Directions

  1. Put the chicken pieces, olive oil, garlic cloves, and spices into a large ziploc bag. Marinate overnight.
  2. Soak skewers in water overnight while chicken is marinating.
  3. Arrange your chicken and veggies on the soaked skewers.
  4. Sprinkle kebobs with salt and pepper.
  5. Grill for 2 minutes on each side, turning three times.

2. Baked Apples

Sick of eating s’mores every night? Try using apples to make a deliciously sweet dessert instead.

Ingredients

  • 4 large baking apples
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup chopped raisins
  • 1 tbsp. butter

Directions

  1. After washing apples, remove apple cores, making the hole about 3/4-inch wide. Dig out seeds with a spoon.
  2. Combine sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and pecans in a small bowl. Then stuff each apple with this mixture.
  3. Wrap apples in aluminum foil and set in coals, baking for 15–20 minutes.

3. Lemon Dill Grilled Fish Filets

Going fishing on your trip? If you have a lucky day, take advantage of the fish you catch and use it to make lemon dill grilled fish filets!

Ingredients

  • 4 cleaned fish filets
  • 1 lemon, sliced in half
  • 1 tbsp. salt
  • 1 tbsp. dry dill
  • pepper for taste
  • olive oil
  • 4 foil sheets

Directions

  1. Use olive oil to grease bottom of foil sheet and place fish filet on top.
  2. Sprinkle each filet with pepper and 1/4 of the salt and dill.
  3. Use half your lemon and squeeze juice over fish. Slice the other half into rings and then place the rings on top of the fish. Drizzle olive oil over fish.
  4. Fold sides of foil and tightly seal.
  5. Place foil packets over smoldering coals for 3 minutes, then flip and continue cooking for 3 more minutes.
  6. Remove foil from fire and wait 5 minutes before eating.

You don’t have to suffer hot dogs and hamburgers every night of your camping trip. When you’re stuck in a meal rut, these best camping recipes will hit the spot.

Healthy Camping Recipes That Are Both Delicious and Nutritious

During a camping trip, you’re typically left with fewer options when it comes to food. That doesn’t mean, however, that you have to eat the same unhealthy meals over and over again. With the right cooking gear and these healthy camping recipes, you can be a little more creative when preparing meals so your tastebuds don’t suffer.

Oatmeal with the Works

Instead of just frying up bacon or breakfast potatoes, start your day off the right way with a healthier, energizing meal. Serves 10 (serving size = 1 cup).

Ingredients

  • 6 cups of rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped dried apricots
  • 1 cup tart dried cherries
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

Optional toppings

  • 1 cup toasted unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 cup roasted hazelnuts
  • milk

Directions

  1. At home, combine oats, apricots, cherries, and brown sugar in a large bowl and store in container.
  2. At the campsite, add water (3/4 cup per serving) to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Then stir in oatmeal mix (3/4 cup per serving).
  3. Remove oatmeal from heat and let stand for 5 minutes or until water has been absorbed. Add toppings and enjoy.

Vegetable Campfire Hobo Packets

This recipe is perfect for both vegetarians and those who just want to eat healthy while camping. Serves 4.

Ingredients

  • 2 red onions, sliced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large zucchini, diced
  • 2 broccoli crowns, cut into florets
  • 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • salt and black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients in an airtight container to pack.
  2. When you’re at the campsite, tear off 4 large sheets of aluminum foil.
  3. Toss your vegetables and place a pile of veggies in the center of each foil sheet.
  4. Fold foil over vegetable mix and make sure the edges are sealed.
  5. Cook packets over coals for 20 minutes.

Ready to give your taste buds a break? Try out these healthy camping recipes and enjoy food that is both delicious and nutritious.

Camping Inspiration: 5 Best RV Parks in the United States

If you love camping and the thrill of the open road but hate being stuck in a stuffy vehicle for hours on end, then RV camping is the perfect solution. Recreational vehicles allow you to enjoy long road trips in a more comfortable manner—and without compromising your camping adventure.

Ready to take on the open road? Check out our list of the five best RV parks in the United States and start planning your next adventure.

1. Yosemite Pines RV Park, California

The Yosemite Pines RV Park is located only 22 miles away from the actual national park and offers plenty of views and activities to keep everyone entertained during their stay. Spend your time hiking or panning for gold with your family in the campground’s gold mine!

2. Boyd’s Key West Campground, Florida

Craving warm weather, sandy beaches, and saltwater fishing? Then head down to Key West, Florida, and stay at Boyd’s Campground. Be sure to hit up Duvall Street, which hosts a sunset celebration every evening.

3. Rivers Edge RV Park, Alaska

If you’ve always wanted to go to Alaska, RV camping provides a great way to enjoy this beautiful state. The peaceful campground is near various historic sites, including gold mining towns you can spend time exploring during the day. There are also plenty of biking and walking trails to keep everyone active throughout the trip.

4. Horse Thief Lake Campground, South Dakota

Horse Thief Lake Campground is conveniently located near many popular tourist attractions such as Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain. The campground itself also offers tons of activities to make it worth your stay, including horseback riding and fishing along with beautiful, rustic scenery.

5. Squaw Flat Campground, Utah

If scenic landscapes are your top priority, Squaw Flat Campground is the perfect place to park your RV. The site is famous for its Native American rock paintings and captivating stone pillars. It also offers an incredible three-mile hike to a nearby park.

Once you experience RV camping, you may never want to travel another way again!

For more tips on the best places to camp, see:

Big Sur Campgrounds to Get You Inspired for the Upcoming Camping Season

Camping in Big Sur, California, is a magical experience. With a rugged coastline, stunning views, and plenty to do, it’s no wonder so many people travel west to Big Sur when wanting to spend time in nature. Consider these Big Sur campgrounds for your next camping trip.

1. Pondorosa Campground

Great for family camping, Pondorosa is located right in the mountains of Big Sur. This campsite offers trails for biking and hiking and is near the Nacimiento River, which is perfect for fishing and cooling off. Along with savoring the scenic mountains, campers will enjoy seeing beautiful oak and sycamore trees.

2. Fernwood Campground

Not ready to leave behind your RV? No problem. Campers have the choice between tent and RV camping in Fernwood. This campsite is conveniently located near Pfeiffer State Park, where you will find sky-high redwoods and breathtaking mountain views while enjoying access to various hiking trails.

3. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

This beautiful state park offers two hike-in environmental campsites. If you’re looking for gorgeous landscapes, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is the ideal camping spot for you. The park is made up of redwoods, tan oaks, and madrones. It boasts an 80-foot waterfall and a panoramic view of the ocean.

4. Kirk Creek Campground

If you like to spend most of your time at the beach, consider Kirk Creek Campground. This campsite offers the best view of the ocean and is near Sand Dollar Beach, a popular site for surfing, swimming, and fishing. The campground is also located right by many trails that are excellent for hiking and bicycling.

5. Plaskett Creek Campground

Enjoy the best camping has to offer at Plaskett Creek Campground. Stunning views of waterfalls and redwoods along with paved trails make this campsite popular for hiking and exploring. When you need to cool off, head to Sand Dollar Beach, the largest sandy beach in the Big Sur. RVs and tents are both welcome.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next camping adventure at one of the many Big Sur campgrounds and get ready for an incredible experience.

For more tips on the best places to camp, read these other posts from My Camp Kitchen:

5 National Parks That Offer the Best Campgrounds in the US

Already planning your next big camping trip? Here are five of the top-rated, best campgrounds in the US to get you inspired.

1. Glacier National Park, Montana

If you’re a serious backpacker, you’ll love camping at Glacier National Park. The campground area is surrounded by the Flathead National Forest and is located by numerous rivers, lakes, and streams for hikers to enjoy. If you prefer camping in comfort, Glacier also offers sites for RVs.

2. Yosemite National Park, California

If you prefer camping in the comforts of your RV complete with cooking supplies and comfortable beds, then Yosemite National Park is a great camping option. Yosemite has 10 different campgrounds that allow RVs and trailers. Known for its beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and striking cliffs, Yosemite National Park offers an unforgettable camping experience for its scenic views alone.

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend’s most popular campground, Chisos Basin Campground is surrounded by rocky cliffs that will fill you with awe. Although you’ll be camping in Texas, the basin is at a higher elevation and is often the coolest campground in the park. People who enjoy bird watching will love camping at this popular nesting site for migratory birds.

4. Channel Islands National Park, California

Do you like hiking? Snorkeling? How about bird watching? Channel Islands National Park offers extraordinary landscapes to explore and delightful camping experiences. East Anacapa Island is one of the more popular campsites as it is only 12 miles from the mainland and offers plenty to do, including kayaking, scuba diving, and swimming.

5. Olympic National Park, Washington

RV and tent campers alike can enjoy camping at Olympic National Park. If you’re looking for the best campsite within Olympic, Kalaloch campground offers scenic views, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and tide pools filled with starfish and sea urchins.

Feeling inspired already? Wherever you choose, these national parks are sure to please the camper in you.

For more on the best places to camp, check out these posts:

How to Choose the Best Place to Camp on Your Next Big Trip

Trying to choose the best place to camp on your next big trip? While you can’t guarantee a perfect pick every time, you can choose a campground that is more suitable to your liking. Just consider these four questions during your search to help narrow down your options.

1. How much of the week do you want to spend driving?

Even if you’re taking a week off to go camping, a lengthy drive can make it feel like you’re only getting three or four days to camp. Consider how much time you want to be on the road versus camping. If you would rather spend most of the week cooking up meals by the campfire and swimming in the lake, choose a campsite nearby or just a day’s drive away.

2. Are you bringing kids?

Children can play a large part in determining which campground you choose. If you have younger kids who aren’t experienced campers, it’s best not to travel far away or to an area without showers or bathrooms. If, on the other hand, your kids are older and have been camping many times, you can broaden your options.

3. What kind of outdoor activities do you enjoy?

Activities like swimming, canoeing, rock climbing, hiking, and fishing are common camping activities, but some campsites have better lakes while others offer nicer hiking trails. Determine which activities you enjoy the most and then find the campsites considered best for each.

4. How authentic do you want your camping experience to be?

If the thought of camping somewhere without typical bathroom facilities freaks you out, there are plenty of well-developed campgrounds that offer showers and toilets as well as a great camping experience. If your camping style is more primitive, then try to locate a spot that’s at least 100 feet away from a water source.

No place is perfect, but these questions will help you get a better idea of what you’re looking for in a campsite so you can enjoy your trip even more!

For more on the best places to camp, see these posts:

10 Tips for a Successful Camp-Out

  1. Personal gear. Pack your gear in a soft duffel bag or backpack. Take what you need—and no more! Stow gear in your tent and keep it tidy. Check the weather before leaving, and be sure to bring the proper clothing.
  2. Stay level and safe. Choose a level spot for pitching your tent. Make sure there are no signs of little streams running through your tent site from previous rainstorms. Check overhead to confirm there are no dead trees or large branches that can fall on your site.
  3. Cooking gear. The biggest mistake some campers make is bringing the kitchen sink. All you need is a portable camp kitchen that holds enough gear for a family of two to six. Like the personal gear, take what you need and no more!
  4. Plan your meals. If you have a camp kitchen or a makeshift set-up on a table, plan your meals around the cooking gear you are going to use. Only refrigerate items that require it. Try to use as many fresh foods that don’t require refrigeration as you can in your menu.
  5. Keep dry or in the shade. A dining fly or “Easy-up” is quite handy. If it rains, your area is protected; if there is a lot of direct sun, you can enjoy shade. It’s also a great place to put your kitchen.
  6. Kitchen hang-out. Just like at home, the kitchen is a hangout for socializing. Keep it neat with the coffee pot on.
  7. Manage your trash. It accumulates quickly. Bring heavy-duty trash bags. A collapsible trash container with the trash bag works great. If you are in a place with campfires, burn all of the paper goods (not plastics).
  8. Clean your room. Remember what your mother said, “You can’t go out until you clean your room.” Keep your tent tidy and organized so when it’s time to “hit the sack,” you can jump right in.
  9. Fires and firewood. Know the campfire regulations for your campsite. In heavily used areas, gathering wood is not permitted, so you may need to bring your own.
  10. Camping is a time to relax. Enjoy the natural environment—and keep it enjoyable for the next camper to follow. Be courteous and don’t trash your campsite.

5 Tips for Making Your Kids’ First Camping Experience More Enjoyable

Camping with kids for the first time can make any parent feel worried and a little unsure. Make the experience as enjoyable as possible for both you and your kids by following these five tips:

1. Do a practice run

If your kids have never been camping before, it’s a good idea to spend a night “camping” in your backyard. That way your kids can get a taste of what’s to come, and you’ll have a better idea of how they handle sleeping in a tent or camper.

2. Start small

You might prefer to camp in the wilderness with no running water, but a child may be most at ease camping in a more developed area. Start at a campground close to home with toilets and running water. You want to ease kids into the camping experience—not scare them away from it.

3. Get the kids involved

Letting your kids be involved in the planning process will help build their excitement and make them feel more comfortable with the overall camping experience. Have them help you plan out meals and let them pack their own bags. It will make them more aware of the responsibilities that come with camping so they’re prepared in the future.

4. Establish camp rules

Kids should have fun while camping, but it also important that they stay safe. Set up boundaries so they know where it is okay to roam while unsupervised and which areas are off-limits. You can also create a buddy system. If your kids wants to go off by themselves, they should always tell an adult first.

5. Plan activities

If your kids are used to being entertained by televisions, cell phones, computers, and other electronic devices, they might feel lost without technology. Plan fun activities though like hiking, swimming, and games to help your kids forget about their video games!

Camping with kids takes a little more work and planning, but the cherished memories you’ll create together make the extra effort worth it.

For more information on how to camp, check out our other posts:

Camping Activities to Keep the Family Entertained

The whole family is packed and ready for a week of camping fun. But what are you actually going to do once you arrive at the campground? Be prepared come rain or shine with these fun camping activities in your back pocket.

Active

  • Hiking: A long hike is the perfect opportunity to bond with friends or family while enjoying lush natural landscapes.
  • Swimming: When the sun is shining and the weather is hot, cool down by spending a few hours swimming in the lake.
  • Capture the FlagUltimate Frisbee, or Sand Volleyball: Any game that gets you moving will work, but these are popular choices for camping.

Leisure

  • Fishing: Even if you don’t catch a single fish, going fishing is a great way to relish peace and quiet.
  • Floating: Tired of swimming? Grab a tube and enjoy the water without the work.
  • Lying on the beach: On the beach, you can read a book or just sit and relax. Just don’t forget to wear sunscreen!

Rainy days

  • Card games: Cards offer variety, so when you get sick of playing one game, simply switch to another.
  • Reading: Use a rainy day as an opportunity to finally start that book you’ve been meaning to read.
  • Crafting: Do you like to draw or knit? Bring your supplies with you in case of bad weather.

Nighttime

  • Storytelling: While everyone is sitting around the campfire and roasting marshmallows, have people share a scary ghost story.
  • Catching fireflies: Are you fast enough to catch a firefly? Wait until the sun goes down and then find out!
  • Late-night swim: Night swimming offers a totally different experience from a daytime swim. Take the necessary precautions and always bring a buddy.

A camping trip should never be boring. Keep a few activities in mind for every occasion and make your camping trip a success!

For more information on how to camp, check out our other posts: