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!
Why More Families Are Choosing Campgrounds Over Hotels
Family vacations are all about spending quality time together, making memories, and taking a break from everyday life. While hotels have long been a popular choice, more families are discovering that campgrounds offer a more enjoyable, affordable, and memorable vacation experience. Whether you’re traveling in an RV, pitching a tent, or staying in a cabin, campgrounds provide opportunities that hotels simply can’t match.
More Time Together
One of the biggest reasons families are choosing campgrounds is the chance to truly reconnect. Instead of everyone staying in separate rooms or spending time on their phones, camping encourages families to gather around the campfire, play games outside, cook meals together, and enjoy meaningful conversations.
Without the constant distractions of everyday life, it’s easier to slow down and focus on what matters most—each other.
Plenty of Space for Kids to Explore
Hotels often limit kids to hallways, pools, or small play areas. Campgrounds, on the other hand, offer wide-open spaces where children can run, ride bikes, explore nature, and make new friends.
Many campgrounds also feature family-friendly amenities like:
- Playgrounds
- Swimming pools
- Fishing ponds
- Walking trails
- Basketball or volleyball courts
- Planned weekend activities
- Outdoor games
Instead of asking, “What are we going to do today?” families often find there’s something happening right outside their campsite.
More Affordable Vacations
Vacation costs can add up quickly, especially for larger families. Campgrounds often provide a more budget-friendly alternative to hotels while offering even more value.
Families can save money by:
- Cooking meals at their campsite instead of eating out for every meal.
- Choosing tent sites or RV sites that cost less than multiple hotel rooms.
- Enjoying free outdoor entertainment like hiking, fishing, and campfire evenings.
- Taking advantage of included campground amenities.
The money saved can be used for local attractions, family activities, or even an extra night away.
A Break from Screens
Camping naturally encourages families to unplug. Instead of spending evenings watching television, families often spend time roasting marshmallows, telling stories, playing cards, or watching the stars.
While Wi-Fi may still be available at many campgrounds, the outdoor setting makes it much easier to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other.
A Different Adventure Every Day
Every camping trip feels unique. One day might include hiking nearby trails, while the next is spent swimming, fishing, or exploring local attractions.
Campgrounds are often located near:
- State parks
- Lakes and rivers
- Hiking trails
- Caves
- Small-town attractions
- Historic landmarks
Families can easily customize each vacation based on their interests.
Flexible Ways to Stay
Unlike hotels, campgrounds offer several lodging options to fit different travel styles and budgets.
Depending on the campground, families can choose from:
- RV sites
- Tent camping
- Cozy cabins
- Pull-through sites for larger RVs
- Full hook-up campsites
This flexibility allows families to enjoy the camping experience in whatever way feels most comfortable.
Creating Lasting Memories
Years from now, children may not remember the hotel room they stayed in—but they’ll remember catching their first fish, roasting marshmallows around the campfire, riding bikes through the campground, or laughing together under the stars.
Camping creates experiences that become family traditions, bringing everyone back year after year.
The Best Vacation Isn’t Always Inside Four Walls
Hotels certainly have their place, but for families looking for adventure, affordability, and quality time together, campgrounds offer an experience that’s hard to beat. With fresh air, outdoor fun, and plenty of opportunities to make lifelong memories, it’s easy to see why more families are choosing campgrounds for their vacations.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway at one of Kiefer Campground’s many campgrounds or a longer family adventure, your next favorite vacation might just begin around a campfire.
🍊 Orange Creamsicle Cups
These creamy, no-bake dessert cups are refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for summer camping, BBQs, or a sweet treat at home.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 (3 oz) package orange gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt (or vanilla pudding)
- 1 cup whipped topping, thawed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- Whipped cream, orange slices, or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Dissolve the orange gelatin in the boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Add the cold water and let the mixture cool for about 10–15 minutes (don’t let it set).
- In a separate bowl, combine the vanilla yogurt, whipped topping, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
- Slowly fold the cooled gelatin into the creamy mixture until smooth.
- Divide evenly among 6 small dessert cups or mason jars.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Top with whipped cream, a small orange slice, or orange zest before serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- Mandarin orange segments
- Crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
- White chocolate shavings
- Mini marshmallows
These cups combine the classic flavors of orange and vanilla for a nostalgic creamsicle-inspired dessert that’s quick, refreshing, and easy to customize while staying at Kiefer Campgrounds!.
Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Campground
There’s no better way to celebrate Independence Day than spending it outdoors with family and friends. From roasting marshmallows around the campfire to watching fireworks under the stars, camping creates the perfect setting for making Fourth of July memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or an extended vacation, here are a few ways to make the most of your holiday at the campground.
Decorate Your Campsite
Show off your patriotic spirit by decorating your RV or campsite with festive red, white, and blue decorations. Consider bringing:
- American flags
- String lights
- Patriotic tablecloths
- Red, white, and blue balloons
- Festive outdoor pillows
- Star-shaped decorations
A little decorating helps create a fun atmosphere and gets everyone into the holiday spirit.
Enjoy Classic Campfire Meals
No Fourth of July celebration is complete without great food. Fire up the grill or campfire and enjoy holiday favorites like:
- Hot dogs and hamburgers
- BBQ chicken
- Campfire foil packets
- Fresh watermelon
- Pasta or potato salad
- S’mores for dessert
Don’t forget refreshing drinks and plenty of snacks to keep everyone fueled throughout the day.
Join Campground Activities
Many campgrounds celebrate with special Fourth of July events. From games and crafts to wagon rides, live music, or themed activities, there’s always something fun happening for campers of all ages.
Be sure to check our campground event schedule on Facebook so you don’t miss out on the festivities!
Stay Safe Around Fireworks
If fireworks are permitted in your area, always follow campground rules and local regulations.
Remember to:
- Keep a safe distance from fireworks.
- Never leave children unattended.
- Have water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Dispose of fireworks safely once they’re completely cool.
- Respect quiet hours and fellow campers.
If personal fireworks aren’t allowed, find a nearby community fireworks show and enjoy the display together.
Spend Time Together
The best part of camping isn’t what’s on the schedule—it’s spending quality time together. Play yard games, ride bikes, go fishing, hike nearby trails, tell stories around the campfire, or simply relax in your favorite camping chair while enjoying the summer weather.
Sometimes the simplest moments become the most memorable.
Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to take plenty of photos throughout the weekend! Family pictures by the campfire, kids enjoying campground activities, and beautiful fireworks displays make great keepsakes you’ll enjoy looking back on for years to come.
Happy Fourth of July!
The Fourth of July is all about celebrating freedom, family, and fun. Camping brings all of those together in one unforgettable weekend. We hope you’ll join us for a holiday filled with laughter, adventure, and lasting memories.
Pack your patriotic gear, gather your loved ones, and get ready for an incredible Fourth of July at Kiefer Campgrounds! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Why Kids Remember Camping Vacations for Years
If you’ve ever taken kids camping, you’ve probably heard it long after the trip is over: “Remember when we roasted marshmallows?” or “Remember that bike ride at the campground?” Camping has a way of sticking with kids in a way few other vacations do—and it’s not by accident.
✨ It Feels Like a Whole New World
For kids, camping is full of “firsts.” Sleeping in a tent or cabin, hearing crickets and frogs at night, cooking outdoors, and exploring nature all feel completely different from everyday life. That sense of novelty makes memories stronger and more lasting.
🔥 Big Moments, Big Emotions
From catching a fish to roasting the perfect marshmallow, camping is full of simple but exciting wins. Kids remember how those moments felt—the laughter, the excitement, and even the little surprises along the way. Strong emotions help lock memories in for years.
👨👩👧 Uninterrupted Family Time
No school rush. No work distractions. No screens pulling attention away. Camping creates rare pockets of time where families are truly together. Whether it’s sitting around the campfire, playing games, or walking through the campground, those shared moments become core memories.
🌲 Hands-On Adventure
Kids aren’t just watching the experience—they’re part of it. Helping set up camp, collecting firewood, exploring trails, or riding bikes around the campground gives them a sense of independence and adventure that makes the memories even stronger.
💛 Simple Moments Become Big Memories
The truth is, it’s not just one big event kids remember—it’s everything together. The sounds of the night, the smell of the campfire, the taste of s’mores, and the feeling of being outside all day long turn into something unforgettable.
Camping doesn’t just give kids a vacation—it gives them stories they’ll carry for years.
Book your stay today at Kiefer Campgrounds!
Campfire Mac and Cheese 🧀🔥
Creamy, cheesy, and easy to make right at the campsite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: bacon bits, green onions, crushed crackers
Utensils Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Spoon for stirring
- Strainer
- Measuring cups
Directions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil over the campfire.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions, then drain.
- Return macaroni to the pot and stir in butter until melted.
- Pour in milk and slowly add cheese while stirring continuously.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until creamy and melted.
- Top with bacon bits, green onions, or crushed crackers if desired.
Tips
- Cook over low heat once the cheese is added to avoid burning.
- Add a splash of extra milk for creamier mac and cheese.
- Try mixing in pulled pork or hot dogs for a heartier campsite meal!
Nothing beats a warm bowl of cheesy mac and cheese by the campfire after a day outdoors. This simple recipe is easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for sharing around the campsite at Kiefer Campgrounds! 🏕️
Campground Game Night Ideas for All Ages
There’s nothing better than ending a fun day at the campground with a game night everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re camping with kids, friends, or the whole family, games are a great way to bring everyone together around the picnic table, campfire, or inside the camper on a rainy night. Here are some campground-friendly game night ideas for all ages!
1. Campground Bingo
Create bingo cards filled with camping-themed items like:
- Campfire
- S’mores
- Tent
- Fishing pole
- Canoe
- Deer sighting
- Picnic table
- Firewood
This is a fun way to keep kids entertained while exploring the campground.
2. Card Games for the Campsite
A simple deck of cards can go a long way. Popular camping favorites include:
- Go Fish
- Uno
- Old Maid
- Crazy Eights
- War
- Spoons
Card games are easy to pack, quick to set up, and perfect for all ages.
3. Glow-in-the-Dark Ring Toss
Once the sun goes down, use glow sticks to create a fun nighttime game. Toss glowing rings onto bottles, stakes, or cones for a simple challenge everyone can enjoy.
4. Campfire Charades
Put camping-related words or phrases into a jar and take turns acting them out. Ideas include:
- Roasting marshmallows
- Setting up a tent
- Catching a fish
- Hiking a trail
- Telling ghost stories
This is always a crowd favorite and guaranteed to get laughs.
5. Giant Outdoor Games
Bring oversized versions of classic games like:
- Jenga
- Connect Four
- Checkers
- Tic-Tac-Toe
These are great for larger groups and make a fun addition to your campsite setup.
6. Scavenger Hunt Challenge
Create a scavenger hunt list with items found around the campground:
- Pinecone
- Feather
- Smooth rock
- Wildflower
- Acorn
- Leaf with 3 colors
Make it competitive by timing teams or offering a small prize.
7. Trivia Night
Host a campground trivia game with categories like:
- Nature
- Camping facts
- Movies
- Music
- Sports
You can even make it campground-specific for returning guests.
8. Story Dice
Roll dice with pictures or prompts and create silly campfire stories together. This is especially fun for younger kids and helps spark creativity.
9. Minute-to-Win-It Challenges
Quick games are perfect for campers with short attention spans. Try:
- Stack cups fastest
- Marshmallow toss
- Cookie face challenge
- Ping pong bounce
10. Classic Board Games
Don’t forget the timeless favorites:
- Monopoly Deal
- Sorry!
- Guess Who?
- Trouble
- Clue
Rainy weather? Board games save the day.
Make Game Night a Campground Tradition
Game nights are a simple way to create memories, laugh together, and unplug while camping. Pack a few games on your next trip and turn your campsite into the ultimate family fun zone.
Staying at one of our campgrounds? Bring your favorite games and start your own campground game night tradition this season at Kiefer Campgrounds!
🍓 Campfire Fruit Crisp Foil Packs: A Sweet Camping Treat
Looking for an easy, no-mess dessert at the campground? These fruit crisp foil packs are simple to make, packed with fresh flavor, and perfect for enjoying around the fire.
🍯 Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is quick, customizable, and a great way to use fresh fruit. Plus, everything cooks in one packet—so cleanup is minimal.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 apple, diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granola or oats
- 2 tablespoons butter (or plant-based alternative)
🔧 What You’ll Need
- Aluminum foil (or reusable grill-safe wraps)
- Knife & cutting board
- Spoon
🔥 How to Make It
- Preheat your campfire or grill to medium heat.
- Lay out a sheet of foil.
- Add your fruit to the center.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Top with granola or oats and a few small pieces of butter.
- Fold into a sealed packet.
- Place over the fire or on a grill for 10–15 minutes.
- Carefully open and enjoy warm!
🌱 Pro Tips
- Swap in whatever fruit you have on hand
- Add a drizzle of honey or a handful of chocolate chips for extra sweetness
- Top with a scoop of ice cream if you have a cooler
🌼 Final Thought
There’s nothing better than a warm, sweet treat by the campfire. Simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing after a long day outdoors at Kiefer Campgrounds!🔥🍓
Spring Camping Checklist: What You Actually Need (And What You Don’t)
Spring camping is finally here! 🌸🏕️ The days are getting warmer, but the weather can still be a little unpredictable—so packing smart makes all the difference.
If you’ve ever overpacked (or forgotten something important), this guide is for you. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to bring—and what you can leave at home.
🌿 What You Actually Need
The Basics
- Tent (plus stakes & rainfly)
- Sleeping bags or blankets
- Pillows
Spring nights can still get chilly, so don’t skip the extra layers!
Clothing
- Jackets or hoodies
- Extra socks
- Comfortable shoes
- Rain gear
Think layers—you’ll thank yourself later.
Food & Cooking
- Cooler with ice
- Easy meals & snacks
- Basic cooking utensils
- Plates, cups, and silverware
Keep meals simple so you can spend more time enjoying your trip.
Campfire Must-Haves
- Firewood (if available)
- Lighter or matches
- S’mores supplies 🍫🔥
Personal Items
- Toiletries
- Flashlight or lantern
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- First aid kit
🚫 What You Don’t Need
Too Many Clothes
You’ll likely re-wear layers—no need to overdo it.
Complicated Cooking Gear
Skip the full kitchen setup. Simple is better when camping.
“Just in Case” Items
Packing for every possible situation just adds clutter. Stick to the essentials.
🌸 A Few Quick Tips
- Check the weather before you go
- Bring an extra blanket just in case
- Set up camp before it gets dark
- Don’t forget games or activities for downtime
🏕️ Keep It Simple
Camping is all about relaxing, getting outside, and making memories—not hauling a car full of stuff. Pack smart, keep it simple, and enjoy your time at Kiefer Campgrounds! 🌿
🍓 Spring Break Recipe: Grilled Pound Cake with Berries
Looking for a simple, sweet treat to enjoy during spring break? This grilled pound cake with fresh berries is the perfect mix of easy, delicious, and campground-approved. Whether you’re cooking over a campfire or on the grill, this dessert feels a little fancy with almost no effort!
🛒 Ingredients:
- Store-bought pound cake (pre-sliced or cut into thick slices)
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
- Butter (softened)
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Honey or chocolate drizzle (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
- Lightly butter both sides of each slice of pound cake.
- Place slices on a grill or over a campfire grate.
- Grill for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove and top with fresh berries.
- Add whipped cream and drizzle with honey or chocolate if desired.
✨ Tips:
- Want extra flavor? Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar before grilling.
- No grill? A cast iron pan works just as well!
- Let the kids build their own—it’s a fun, mess-free camping activity!
Try this recipe during your spring break trip to Kiefer Campgrounds!
What Winter Campers Experience That Summer Campers Miss Out On
When most people think of camping, they imagine sunny skies, warm nights, and busy campgrounds in the summer. But there’s a whole other world of camping that often gets overlooked: winter camping. While it might sound chilly and challenging, experienced winter campers know it offers unique rewards that summer campers rarely experience. Here’s what makes winter camping special—and why you might want to try it this season.
1. Peace and Quiet
Summer campgrounds can be crowded, noisy, and hectic. Winter campers, on the other hand, often enjoy near-empty campgrounds and trails, giving them a sense of solitude and connection with nature that’s hard to find in the warmer months. It’s the perfect time to relax, unwind, and truly escape the everyday rush.
2. Stunning Winter Landscapes
There’s nothing quite like the beauty of snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and frost-tipped trails. Winter transforms the outdoors into a sparkling, serene wonderland. Photographers and nature lovers alike will appreciate the breathtaking scenery that’s unavailable during the warmer months.
3. Cozy Campfires and Warm Drinks
Cold weather camping naturally brings everyone closer to the campfire. There’s something magical about roasting marshmallows, sipping hot cocoa, or sharing stories under a sky full of stars while the crisp air keeps you bundled up. Winter campers know how to embrace the chill and turn it into a cozy, memorable experience.
4. Unique Wildlife Encounters
Winter wildlife behaves differently than in summer. Tracks in the snow tell stories, and spotting deer, foxes, or birds against a snowy backdrop feels more intimate and exciting. Winter campers get a rare peek into the hidden lives of these animals.
5. Builds Real Outdoor Skills
Winter camping requires preparation, knowledge, and adaptability. From layering clothing to safely handling cold-weather cooking and setting up tents on frost-covered ground, winter campers develop skills that make them more confident and capable in the outdoors year-round.
6. A Different Kind of Adventure
Winter camping is quieter, slower, and sometimes more challenging—but that’s what makes it rewarding. It’s not just a summer activity; it’s an adventure that teaches patience, resilience, and an appreciation for nature in every season.
Final Thoughts
While summer camping has its perks, winter campers know that the cold brings a unique charm that summer just can’t offer. Fewer crowds, serene landscapes, cozy campfires, and the thrill of winter adventures make it a one-of-a-kind experience. So this winter, consider stepping out of your comfort zone at Kiefer Campgrounds and discovering the magic that only cold-weather camping can provide.
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!
