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 Dry Wet Boots With Hot Rocks
Drying wet boots with hot rocks is an old-school method that can be effective if done safely. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Select suitable rocks: Look for smooth rocks that are free of cracks and fissures. Avoid porous rocks like sandstone, as they may retain moisture and could potentially explode when heated.
- Clean the rocks: Rinse the rocks thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Let them dry completely before using them.
- Heat the rocks: Place the rocks in a fire or heat them over a stove or grill. Make sure to heat them gradually to prevent cracking due to rapid temperature changes. Use tongs or a shovel to handle the rocks to avoid burns.
- Prepare the boots: Remove any excess water from the boots by shaking them or using a towel. Stuff the boots with newspaper or a cloth to help absorb moisture from the inside.
- Place the rocks in the boots: Once the rocks are hot enough, carefully place them inside the boots. Make sure they are not too hot to avoid damaging the boots.
- Allow the rocks to absorb moisture: Leave the rocks inside the boots for about 20-30 minutes, allowing them to absorb the moisture. Check the temperature of the rocks periodically to ensure they are not overheating.
- Remove the rocks: After the allotted time, carefully remove the rocks from the boots using tongs or a shovel. Be cautious as the rocks may still be hot.
- Air dry: Once the rocks are removed, allow the boots to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Avoid placing them near direct heat sources like a fireplace or heater, as this can damage the boots.
- Check for dryness: After a few hours, check the boots to ensure they are completely dry before wearing them again.
Remember to exercise caution when handling hot rocks to avoid burns or injury, and always prioritize safety when using any drying method for boots or other gear.
This is a great tip to know when you’re hiking or camping at one of our Kiefer Campgrounds.
Roasted Marshmallow Kahlua Shots
Roasted Marshmallow Kahlua Shots sound like a delicious and indulgent treat! Here’s a simple recipe you can follow to make them:
Ingredients:
- Marshmallows
- Kahlua (coffee-flavored liqueur)
- Chocolate syrup (optional, for garnish)
- Graham cracker crumbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Start by roasting your marshmallows. You can do this over a campfire, using a kitchen torch, or by placing them under the broiler in your oven until they’re golden brown and slightly charred.
- Once your marshmallows are roasted, let them cool slightly.
- While the marshmallows are cooling, prepare shot glasses by drizzling a little chocolate syrup around the inside rim of each glass. You can also dip the rims in graham cracker crumbs for extra flavor and decoration.
- Carefully place a roasted marshmallow into each shot glass.
- Pour Kahlua over the marshmallows until the shot glasses are filled.
- Optionally, you can garnish the top of each shot with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra flair.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Roasted Marshmallow Kahlua Shots!
These shots are perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a gathering. They combine the rich, coffee flavor of Kahlua with the nostalgic taste of roasted marshmallows for a delightful treat that’s sure to be a hit! Remember to enjoy responsibly.
Who said the perfect camping drink doesn’t exist? Try these Roasted Marshmallow Kahlua Shots on your next trip to Kiefer Campgrounds. Drink responsibly!
Pickle, Ham, and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Pickle, Ham, and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. Here’s a simple recipe to guide you through making them:
Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
- 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham
- 4 large flour tortillas (10 inches)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped pickles, and chopped ham. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lay out one flour tortilla on a clean work surface. Spread a quarter of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll up the tortilla tightly to form a log. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and cream cheese mixture.
- Place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once chilled, remove the rolled tortillas from the refrigerator and slice them into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
- Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and serve immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
These pickle, ham, and cream cheese pinwheels make a delicious appetizer or snack for any occasion! Enjoy!
A quick and easy recipe to make on your next camping trip to any of our Kiefer Campgrounds.
DIY Camping Tic-Tac-Toe
Creating a DIY tic-tac-toe game for camping can be a fun and engaging activity. Here’s a simple guide to making one:
Materials Needed:
- Flat Stones or Wood Slices: You’ll need nine identical flat stones or wood slices. These will serve as the playing pieces.
- Marker or Paint: Use a waterproof marker or paint to draw the X’s and O’s on the stones or wood.
- Canvas Bag or Pouch: To store the game pieces when not in use.
- Sturdy Fabric or Tarp: For the game board.
- Rope or Twine: To create the grid on the game board.
- Stakes or Heavy Objects: To secure the corners of the game board to the ground.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Game Board:
- Lay out your fabric or tarp on a flat surface. Make sure it’s large enough to accommodate a 3×3 grid.
- Use rope or twine to create the grid on the fabric. Tie knots at the intersections to mark the spaces.
- Decorate the Playing Pieces:
- Use your marker or paint to draw X’s and O’s on the flat stones or wood slices. Make sure they’re clearly distinguishable from each other.
- Set Up the Game:
- Place the game board on a flat area of ground at your campsite.
- Use stakes or heavy objects to secure the corners of the game board to the ground so it doesn’t blow away in the wind.
- Play:
- Decide who will be X’s and who will be O’s.
- Players take turns placing their X’s or O’s on the grid, trying to form a row of three horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
- The first player to get three of their symbols in a row wins the game.
- Store the Pieces:
- When you’re finished playing, gather up the playing pieces and store them in a canvas bag or pouch for safekeeping.
Additional Tips:
- For a more durable game board, you can use a heavy-duty fabric like canvas or vinyl.
- If you’re camping near a beach, you can use sticks to create the grid in the sand instead of using fabric and rope.
- To make the game more challenging, you can increase the size of the grid to 4×4 or 5×5.
- Consider laminating the game board for added durability and weather resistance.
Creating a DIY tic-tac-toe game is a great way to add some entertainment to your camping trip while also fostering friendly competition among campers!
Try DIY Tic-Tac-Toe on your next camping trip to any of our Kiefer Campgrounds!
Camping Margaritas
Making margaritas while camping can be a fun and refreshing activity. Here’s a simple recipe for making camping-friendly margaritas:
Ingredients:
- Tequila
- Triple sec or orange liqueur
- Lime juice (fresh if possible)
- Simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved together)
- Ice
- Salt (for rimming the glass, optional)
- Limes for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Measure out the ingredients before you leave for your camping trip to make things easier.
- If you’re making simple syrup, dissolve equal parts sugar and water together before leaving and store it in a small container.
- Rim the Glass (Optional):
- If you like, moisten the rim of your camping cup or glass with a lime wedge.
- Dip the rim into salt, creating a salted rim. This step is optional, depending on your preference.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a portable container or a small shaker, combine 2 parts tequila, 1 part triple sec, 1 part lime juice, and 1 part simple syrup.
- Adjust the ratios to your taste preferences.
- Shake or Stir:
- If you have a portable cocktail shaker, give the mixture a good shake. If not, stirring with a spoon will work.
- Serve over Ice:
- Fill your camping cup or glass with ice.
- Pour and Garnish:
- Pour the margarita mixture over the ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Enjoy Responsibly:
- Sip and enjoy your camping margarita responsibly.
Remember to check if alcohol is allowed at your camping site, and if so, be sure to follow any regulations regarding its consumption. Additionally, consider packing reusable and lightweight camping-friendly barware for an easier and more enjoyable experience.
At Kiefer Campgrounds, we ask you to have fun and be responsible while drinking alcohol on any of our campgrounds.
Dollar Store Camping Tips
Camping on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. Dollar stores can be a great resource for affordable camping supplies. Here are some dollar store camping hacks to help you make the most of your outdoor adventure:
- Flashlights and Lanterns:
- Purchase inexpensive LED flashlights or lanterns to illuminate your campsite at night.
- Don’t forget to stock up on extra batteries, as they are often available at dollar stores.
- Disposable Tableware:
- Pick up disposable plates, cups, and utensils for easy cleanup.
- Look for sturdy, reusable plastic options that can be washed and reused for multiple meals.
- Ziploc Bags:
- Use Ziploc bags to organize and protect your belongings, such as electronics, matches, or snacks.
- They can also be handy for packing toiletries or keeping your phone safe from water and dirt.
- Tarp or Plastic Tablecloth:
- Grab a cheap tarp or plastic tablecloth to use as a ground cover under your tent or as a makeshift rain shelter.
- It’s an affordable way to protect your gear from damp ground or unexpected rain.
- Candles:
- Purchase candles for ambient lighting at the campsite.
- You can also use them to help keep bugs away.
- First Aid Supplies:
- Dollar stores often carry basic first aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
- Assemble a simple first aid kit with these affordable items.
- Plastic Bins:
- Use plastic bins or containers to organize and store your camping gear.
- They can also double as wash basins or food storage.
- Rain Ponchos:
- Pick up inexpensive rain ponchos to stay dry in case of unexpected rain.
- They are lightweight and easy to pack.
- Trash Bags:
- Grab a pack of large trash bags for collecting and disposing of your garbage responsibly.
- They can also be used as impromptu rain covers or ground covers.
- Bungee Cords and Clothespins:
- Secure tarps or create makeshift clotheslines with bungee cords.
- Clothespins can be handy for hanging wet clothes or securing items to a line.
- Microfiber Towels:
- Dollar stores often carry small microfiber towels that are compact and quick-drying.
- They’re perfect for camping and won’t take up much space in your backpack.
- Foam Sleeping Pad:
- Look for foam kneeling pads or yoga mats at the dollar store to use as a budget-friendly sleeping pad.
Remember to check the quality and durability of items before purchasing, and adapt these ideas based on your specific camping needs and preferences. Happy camping!
It’s never too early to book your summer camping trip! Book your site at any of our Kiefer Campgrounds today!
Campfire Hot Toddy
A Campfire Hot Toddy is a warm and comforting drink perfect for chilly evenings. It typically combines whiskey, honey, lemon, and warm water or tea, creating a soothing beverage with a touch of smokiness. Here’s a recipe for a Campfire Hot Toddy:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or another favorite)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup hot water or hot tea
- Optional: Cinnamon stick and lemon wedge for garnish
Instructions:
- In a heat-resistant glass or mug, add the whiskey and honey.
- Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and drop the lemon wedge into the glass.
- Pour in the hot water or hot tea and stir well until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Optional: Garnish with a cinnamon stick for added flavor and aroma.
- Allow the drink to cool slightly before sipping. Be cautious as it will be hot.
The smoky or campfire twist in this Hot Toddy comes from the warmth and comfort it provides, rather than a specific smoky ingredient. The combination of whiskey, honey, and lemon, paired with the soothing hot water or tea, creates a delightful and relaxing drink. Adjust the honey and lemon to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your Campfire Hot Toddy responsibly!
The perfect cozy drink to have around the campfire. Try this recipe out on your next trip to any of our Kiefer Campgrounds!
Iron Skillet Care
Caring for your iron skillet is crucial to maintain its performance and prevent rust. Here are some tips on iron skillet care:
- Seasoning:
- Seasoning is a crucial step in iron skillet care. It creates a natural, non-stick surface and helps prevent rust.
- To season your skillet, coat it with a thin layer of vegetable oil or flaxseed oil. Wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel.
- Bake the skillet upside down in an oven at around 375°F (190°C) for about an hour. This process polymerizes the oil, forming a protective layer on the skillet.
- Cleaning:
- Avoid using soap or harsh detergents, as they can strip away the seasoning. Instead, use a stiff brush or a non-metallic scrubber to clean off food particles.
- If necessary, use hot water and a brush to scrub off stubborn bits of food. Dry the skillet thoroughly to prevent rusting.
- Drying:
- Always dry your skillet thoroughly after washing. Water left on the surface can lead to rust.
- To ensure complete drying, place the skillet on a burner over low heat for a few minutes.
- Avoiding acidic foods:
- Acidic foods can strip away the seasoning and promote rust. Avoid cooking highly acidic foods like tomatoes for prolonged periods.
- If you do cook acidic foods, make sure to re-season your skillet afterward.
- Storage:
- Store your skillet in a dry place. If possible, place a paper towel or cloth between nested skillets to prevent moisture buildup.
- Regular use:
- Regular use of your iron skillet helps in maintaining its seasoning. Cooking with oils and fats contributes to the development of a natural non-stick surface.
- Handling rust:
- If you notice rust forming on your skillet, scrub it off with steel wool or a stiff brush. Afterward, re-season the skillet to restore its protective coating.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes:
- Rapid changes in temperature can cause the iron to warp. Gradually heat and cool your skillet to prevent damage.
By following these tips, you can keep your iron skillet in excellent condition, ensuring it lasts for generations while providing you with reliable and efficient cooking performance.
Whether you’re camping at any of the Kiefer Campgrounds or cooking at home, always follow these steps when cleaning an iron skillet.
Campfire Ginger Apple Cider
Campfire Ginger Apple Cider is a delightful and cozy beverage that combines the flavors of apple cider with the warmth of ginger, perfect for enjoying around a campfire or on a chilly evening. Here’s a simple recipe for making Campfire Ginger Apple Cider:
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of apple cider
- 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 1 orange, sliced
- Optional: 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup for sweetness (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, sliced ginger, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and orange slices.
- If you like your cider on the sweeter side, add brown sugar or maple syrup to the pot. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can affect the flavor.
- Once the cider is simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it steep for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the pot from the heat and strain out the ginger, cloves, cinnamon stick, and orange slices. You can use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for this.
- Serve the Campfire Ginger Apple Cider warm in mugs. Optionally, you can garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange.
- Enjoy your delicious Campfire Ginger Apple Cider by the fireside or wherever you like to cozy up!
Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences. You can also add a splash of rum or bourbon for an adult version if you like. Experiment with the ingredients to find the perfect balance of flavors for your taste buds.
Picture it! You cozied up next to the campfire while drinking a Campfire Ginger Apple Cider at one of our Kiefer Campgrounds. The perfect drink for fall or winter camping!
Staying Warm While Camping in Winter
Staying warm during winter camping is crucial for a comfortable and safe outdoor experience. Here are some tips to help you sleep warm:
- Choose the Right Sleeping Bag:
- Use a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures than you expect. Look for a bag with a temperature rating that accommodates the lowest temperatures you anticipate encountering.
- Consider a mummy-shaped sleeping bag, as it provides better insulation by minimizing the amount of air inside.
- Use a Sleeping Bag Liner:
- Adding a sleeping bag liner can increase insulation and warmth. Liners can add a few extra degrees to your sleeping bag’s temperature rating.
- Insulate Yourself from the Ground:
- Place a good quality sleeping pad underneath your sleeping bag to insulate yourself from the cold ground. The ground can absorb and drain body heat, so a well-insulated pad is essential.
- Dress in Layers:
- Wear thermal or moisture-wicking base layers to retain body heat. Layering allows you to adjust your clothing as needed to regulate your temperature.
- Wear a Hat:
- A significant amount of body heat is lost through the head. Wearing a warm hat can help retain heat and keep you warmer.
- Keep Feet Warm:
- Wear warm socks and consider using a hot water bottle at the foot of your sleeping bag. Warm feet can make a significant difference in overall comfort.
- Ventilation:
- While it may seem counterintuitive, make sure there is some ventilation in your tent. Moisture can accumulate inside the tent, leading to dampness and increased cold. Proper ventilation helps manage condensation.
- Choose a Good Tent:
- A four-season or winter tent is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. It provides better insulation and protection against the cold.
- Campsite Selection:
- Choose a well-sheltered campsite away from cold winds. Wind can significantly impact the perceived temperature and make it feel colder than it actually is.
- Hot Water Bottles or Warm Rocks:
- Fill a sturdy water bottle with hot water and place it in your sleeping bag before bedtime. You can also heat rocks near the campfire and wrap them in a towel to place in your sleeping bag.
- Stay Dry:
- Moisture is your enemy in cold weather. Make sure your clothing and sleeping bag stay dry. Use rain covers for your backpack and be cautious about condensation inside your tent.
Remember to test your gear in controlled conditions before embarking on a winter camping trip. Staying warm is essential not only for comfort but also for your safety in cold environments.
Try out these great tips when camping at any of our Kiefer Campgrounds during these cold winter months.
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!
