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!
🍂 10 Fall Things to Do at the Campground This Year
Fall is one of the best times to enjoy a camping getaway. Cooler temperatures, changing leaves, cozy campfires, and quieter days make the campground feel a little different this time of year. Whether you’re camping with family, friends, or just looking for a relaxing weekend away, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season right from your campsite.
Here are 10 fun things to do at the campground this fall!
1. 🍁 Go on a Fall Scavenger Hunt
Turn a walk around the campground into a fall adventure! Make a list of things to find, such as a red leaf, yellow leaf, pinecone, acorn, bird, interesting rock, or the biggest tree you can find. It’s an easy activity for kids and adults alike.
2. 🔥 Have a Cozy Campfire
Cooler weather means it’s officially campfire season! Gather around the fire, tell stories, play games, or simply enjoy the warmth while taking in a crisp fall evening.
3. 🍫 Make Fall-Inspired S’mores
Give your usual s’mores a seasonal twist. Try adding peanut butter cups, caramel, cinnamon, chocolate chips, or even apple slices for a fun fall treat.
4. 🥾 Take a Fall Walk
Grab a jacket and explore the campground on foot. Look for changing leaves, wildlife, interesting trees, and other signs of the season. Cooler temperatures make fall walks a great way to spend part of the afternoon.
5. 🎃 Decorate Your Campsite
Bring out the pumpkins, fall signs, mums, scarecrows, and other seasonal decorations. Whether you go all-out or keep it simple, decorating your campsite can make your fall camping trip feel extra festive.
6. 🍎 Cook a Fall Favorite
Fall is the perfect time for warm, hearty camping meals. Make chili, stew, foil-packet dinners, campfire pizza, or another favorite comfort food. Don’t forget dessert!
7. 🌌 Go Stargazing
As the days get shorter, you don’t have to wait as long for the stars to come out. Turn off the campsite lights, get comfortable around the fire, and spend some time looking up at the night sky.
8. 📸 Take Fall Camping Photos
Capture the memories! Take pictures of your campsite, the changing leaves, family adventures, campfire nights, and all the little moments that make fall camping special.
9. 🃏 Play Games Around the Campsite
Pack a few favorite board games, cards, cornhole, or outdoor games for a little friendly competition. Fall camping is a great excuse to put the phones away and spend time together.
10. ☕ Slow Down & Enjoy the Season
Sometimes the best camping activity is doing absolutely nothing. Pour yourself a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, sit outside, listen to nature, and enjoy a slower pace. Fall camping is all about making time to relax and enjoy being outdoors.
🍂 Make This Fall One to Remember
You don’t need a packed itinerary to have a great fall camping trip. From campfires and s’mores to fall walks and cozy mornings, some of the best memories can happen right at your campsite.
Pack your favorite fall camping traditions, grab your family or friends, and make the most of the season at the campground! 🏕️🍁
The cooler weather and shorter days are part of what makes fall camping special, so plan ahead for changing temperatures and make sure you’re prepared for chilly evenings at Kiefer Campgrounds!
🍂🔥 Campfire S’mores With a Fall Twist
Take your classic campfire s’mores up a notch with warm fall flavors! These Pumpkin Spice S’mores combine gooey toasted marshmallows, chocolate, and a hint of pumpkin spice syrup for the perfect autumn treat.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers
- Marshmallows
- Chocolate bars
- Pumpkin spice syrup
- Optional: cinnamon graham crackers
Directions
- Toast your marshmallow over the campfire until golden and gooey.
- Place a piece of chocolate on a graham cracker.
- Add the toasted marshmallow.
- Drizzle a small amount of pumpkin spice syrup over the marshmallow.
- Top with another graham cracker, gently press together, and enjoy!
🍁 Tip: Use just a little syrup so it doesn’t make the s’more too messy. Cinnamon graham crackers pair especially well with the pumpkin flavor.
End your fall camping night on a sweet note with these Pumpkin Spice S’mores! 🍂🔥 Gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, and a drizzle of pumpkin spice syrup make this seasonal twist on a campfire classic the perfect treat to enjoy under the stars. Grab your ingredients, gather around the fire at Kiefer Campgrounds, and make some cozy fall memories! 🎃🍫🏕️
Things to Do at a Campground Without Spending a Dime
Think you need to spend money to have a great camping trip? Not at all! Some of the best camping memories come from slowing down, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time together.
🌿 Explore the campground — Take a walk, look for wildlife, or discover a new favorite spot.
🔥 Gather around the campfire — Tell stories, play games, or simply relax by the fire as the sun goes down.
⭐ Go stargazing — Once night falls, look up and see how many stars or constellations you can find.
🎲 Play games — Bring cards, board games, or make up your own campground games using what you already have.
🚲 Take a bike ride — If you brought your bikes, explore the campground and enjoy the fresh air.
🌅 Watch the sunset — Find a comfortable spot and take in the view. No ticket required!
📖 Read and relax — Grab a book, sit outside, and enjoy some uninterrupted downtime.
📵 Put the phones away — Spend an hour talking, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company without distractions.
☁️ Do absolutely nothing — Sometimes the best part of camping is simply sitting outside, listening to nature, and enjoying the moment.
The best camping memories don’t always cost a thing. Sometimes, all you need is a campsite at Kiefer Campgrounds, a little free time, and the people you love. 🌲❤️
Loaded Breakfast Quesadillas 🌯🍳
Nothing starts a camping morning quite like a hot, hearty breakfast! These loaded breakfast quesadillas are easy to make, filling, and packed with all your favorite breakfast flavors. Whether you’re cooking over the campfire or making breakfast at the campsite, they’re a delicious way to fuel up for a day of outdoor fun. 🌯🍳🏕️
Ingredients:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup frozen or cooked hash browns
- ½ bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup diced onion
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: salsa, hot sauce, avocado, or green onions
Directions:
- Cook the sausage or bacon in a skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced pepper and onion until tender.
- Whisk the eggs with a little salt and pepper, then scramble them with the vegetables.
- Warm the tortillas and layer half of each with cheese, scrambled eggs, meat, and hash browns.
- Fold the tortillas in half and cook in a lightly greased skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and the cheese is melted.
- Slice into wedges and serve with salsa or your favorite breakfast toppings.
Campground tip: Prep the eggs, meat, and veggies at home and store them in the cooler. Then all you have to do at the campsite is assemble, toast, and enjoy! 🏕️🔥
Try this recipe the next time you stay at Kiefer Campgrounds!
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!
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!
