Heres Some Camping Tips & Tricks at Your Fingertips
Our Sullivan Campground Blog is the information you need to make your next camping trip in Missouri even more enjoyable. From RV and camping tips and tricks, to amazing campfire recipes, to advice on planning your next trip in Sullivan, MO... the information below is here to help you. And please, feel free to comment and share your experiences, knowledge and favorite recipes. At Meramec Campground, we are a family and all here to help each other enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest!
Campfire Deviled Eggs
There’s something about gathering around the campfire that makes even the simplest food taste better. Campfire deviled eggs are the perfect mix of classic comfort and campsite creativity — creamy, tangy, and just a little smoky. They’re easy to prep ahead, simple to assemble at camp, and always disappear fast once they hit the picnic table!
🔥 What You’ll Need:
- 12 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
- ½ cup mayo
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1–2 tbsp pickle relish (optional but elite choice)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Paprika (for that classic sprinkle)
- Cooked bacon bits or chopped chives (optional but highly recommended)
🏕 How To Make Them:
- Slice eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and place in a bowl.
- Mash yolks with mayo, mustard, relish, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spoon or pipe mixture back into egg whites.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Top with bacon or chives if you’re feeling fancy.
🔥 Campfire Twist (Optional but Fun)
Place finished eggs in a foil pan, loosely cover with foil, and set near the edge of the campfire (not directly over flames) for 3–5 minutes to warm slightly and give them a subtle smoky vibe.
Not hot. Just warm and kissed by smoke.
💡 Pro Tip
Make the filling at home and store separately. Fill them at the campsite so they stay fresh and pretty.
Try this devilishly easy recipe the next time you stay at Meramec Campground!
🏕️ Campground Workout Routine
Who says you have to skip your gym routine just because you’re staying at a campground? Give our campground workout a try!
No equipment. Just you and the outdoors.
🔥 Warm-Up (5 Minutes)
- Brisk walk around your campsite
- Arm circles + shoulder rolls
- 20 jumping jacks
- 10 bodyweight squats
- 30-second high knees
💪 Circuit #1: Campsite Strength
Repeat 3 rounds
- 15 Squats (use a picnic table bench for support if needed)
- 10 Push-Ups (hands on picnic table to modify)
- 12 Walking Lunges (each leg)
- 30-Second Plank
- 15 Step-Ups (use a sturdy log or bench)
Rest 60 seconds between rounds.
🌲 Circuit #2: Nature Cardio Boost
Repeat 2–3 rounds
- Jog to the nearest trail marker and back
- 20 Mountain Climbers
- 15 Jump Squats
- Bear Crawl 20 feet
- 30-second sprint (or fast power walk)
🪵 Bonus: “Camper Core Challenge”
- 20 Bicycle Crunches
- 15 Leg Raises
- 45-Second Side Plank (each side)
🌅 Cool Down
- Stretch hamstrings, quads, and shoulders
- Deep breathing while enjoying the view
- Hydrate (bonus points for fruit-infused water 🍓🍋)
Burn calories, not just S’mores! Try this workout routine the next time you stay at Meramec Campground!
🍌 Banana Foster French Toast
Here’s a Banana Foster French Toast recipe that’s indulgent but super doable—perfect for brunch at the campground!
Ingredients
- 4 thick slices brioche or Texas toast
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Butter (for the pan)
Bananas Foster Topping
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla
- Optional (very on-brand): splash of rum or maple syrup
Instructions
- Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Dip bread until soaked.
- Cook French toast in a buttered skillet over medium heat until golden on both sides.
- In another pan, melt butter. Add brown sugar and cinnamon—let it bubble.
- Toss in bananas and cook until caramelized and saucy.
- Stir in vanilla (and rum or syrup if using).
- Spoon that glossy goodness over the French toast.
✨ Serve with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra.
This is the most delicious banana-themed breakfast, perfect for early mornings at Meramec Campground!
Camping Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts at the Campground
Camping is about relaxing, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying shared spaces with fellow campers. A little courtesy goes a long way in making sure everyone has a great experience. Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned pro, following basic campground etiquette helps keep campgrounds clean, quiet, and welcoming for all.
Below are the essential do’s and don’ts of campground etiquette every camper should know.
✅ DO: Follow Quiet Hours
Most campgrounds have designated quiet hours, typically in the evening and early morning.
Why it matters: Campers keep different schedules, and many come for peace and rest.
Best practices:
- Keep music, TVs, and conversations low after quiet hours begin
- Be mindful of vehicle doors, generators, and outdoor games at night
❌ DON’T: Walk Through Other Campsites
Your campsite is your temporary home—and so is everyone else’s.
Instead:
- Use designated roads and walking paths
- Take a slightly longer route rather than cutting through occupied sites
This small courtesy helps maintain privacy and comfort for everyone.
✅ DO: Clean Up After Yourself (and a Little Extra)
Leave your site better than you found it whenever possible.
Remember to:
- Pick up trash promptly
- Dispose of food waste properly
- Clean picnic tables and fire pits before departure
Clean campsites keep wildlife safe and make the campground more enjoyable for the next guest.
❌ DON’T: Leave Food Out
Unattended food can attract wildlife and pests.
Avoid:
- Leaving coolers open
- Storing food outside overnight
- Feeding wildlife (even if it seems harmless)
Always follow campground guidelines for food storage.
✅ DO: Be Respectful With Campfires
Campfires are a favorite part of camping—but only when done responsibly.
Campfire etiquette includes:
- Using designated fire rings only
- Keeping fires manageable
- Fully extinguishing fires before leaving or sleeping
Never leave a fire unattended.
❌ DON’T: Let Pets Roam Freely
Pet-friendly campgrounds are a huge perk—but they come with responsibility.
Pet etiquette tips:
- Keep pets leashed unless in designated areas
- Clean up after them immediately
- Be mindful of barking or anxious behavior
Not everyone is comfortable around animals, so courtesy is key.
✅ DO: Be Neighbor-Friendly
A friendly wave or quick hello can go a long way.
Good neighbor habits:
- Park only in designated areas
- Keep outdoor gear contained within your site
- Respect shared amenities like restrooms and playgrounds
Camping is a community experience—kindness makes it better.
❌ DON’T: Ignore Campground Rules
Rules aren’t meant to limit fun—they’re there for safety and fairness.
Common rules include:
- Speed limits
- Generator usage times
- Visitor policies
Following the rules helps ensure a smooth stay for everyone.
🌲 Final Thoughts
Practicing good campground etiquette helps protect nature, respect fellow campers, and create positive memories for all. Whether you’re staying for a night or a week at Meramec Campground, being mindful of these do’s and don’ts makes a big difference.
Campfire Oatmeal Power Bowl
Here’s a Campfire Oatmeal Power Bowl recipe that’s healthy, filling, and perfect for New Year camping mornings! 🔥🥣
⏱️ Time
10 minutes
🥄 Servings
1 (easy to scale up)
🧺 Ingredients
- ½ cup quick oats or rolled oats
- 1 cup water or milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseed
- 1–2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 2 tbsp dried or fresh fruit (raisins, cranberries, blueberries, banana)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Optional: drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- Optional protein boost: spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter
🔥 Campfire Instructions
- Bring water or milk to a gentle boil over the campfire or camp stove.
- Stir in oats and reduce heat.
- Cook 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick.
- Remove from heat and mix in chia seeds and cinnamon.
- Top with nuts, fruit, and your favorite add-ins.
💪 Why It’s a Power Bowl
- High fiber to keep you full
- Healthy fats for energy
- Customizable for any diet (vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free)
🏕️ Make-It-Even-Easier Tip
Prep oatmeal packets at home:
- Combine oats, seeds, nuts, and spices in zip-top bags
- Just add hot water at the campsite
Try this healthy recipe during your next morning stay at Meramec Campground!
Campfire Eggnog
Here’s a campfire-friendly eggnog recipe that’s cozy, safe, and easy to make outdoors! 🔥🥛
Ingredients (serves ~4)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk is creamiest)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or more milk if you want it lighter)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼–⅓ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (plus extra for topping)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
- Heat-safe pot or saucepan
- Whisk (or fork in a pinch)
- Mug or ladle
- Campfire grate or steady bed of coals
Instructions
- Beat the eggs
In a bowl or mug, whisk the eggs with the sugar until smooth and slightly lighter in color. - Heat the milk & cream
Place the milk and cream in a pot over the campfire. Heat gently, stirring often.
Do not let it boil—you want it hot and steamy, not bubbling. - Temper the eggs (important!)
Slowly pour a little of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
This keeps the eggs from scrambling. - Combine & cook
Pour the egg mixture back into the pot. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 3–5 minutes). - Season
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. - Serve
Pour into mugs and sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon on top.
Campfire Tips
- Keep the pot off direct flames—use coals or the edge of the fire.
- Stir constantly to avoid curdling.
- If it gets too thick, add a splash of warm milk.
Try this festive recipe during your next stay at Meramec Campground at Christmastime!
Campfire Stuffing Cups
Here’s a cozy, easy Campfire Stuffing Cups recipe—perfect for Thanksgiving at the campground or backyard fire pit! 🔥🦃
Ingredients
- 1 box stuffing mix (any flavor you like)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1–2 stalks celery, diced
- ½ small onion, diced
- 1 cup cooked turkey or sausage (optional)
- ½ cup dried cranberries (optional)
- Muffin liners or foil cups
Instructions
- Prep Your Cups
Line a cast-iron skillet or campfire-safe muffin tin with foil cups or heavy-duty muffin liners. - Sauté the Veggies
In a skillet over the fire, melt butter. Add diced celery and onion; cook until softened. - Mix the Stuffing
In a bowl, combine stuffing mix, sautéed veggies, chicken broth, and any add-ins like turkey or cranberries. - Fill the Cups
Spoon the stuffing mixture into each foil cup, packing them gently so they hold their shape. - Cook Over the Fire
Place the muffin tin or skillet over indirect heat. Cover loosely with foil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy. - Serve & Enjoy!
Eat them warm right out of the cup—easy to hold, no plate needed, and absolutely delicious.
Try this recipe during your Thanksgiving stay at Meramec Campground!
Campsite Meditation and Mindfulness Practices 🌿
Camping is the perfect time to relax, reset, and reconnect with nature. At Kiefer Campgrounds, we encourage campers to take a few peaceful moments each day to practice mindfulness and enjoy the calm that the outdoors brings.
Here are some simple ways to be more mindful during your camping trip:
- 🌅 Start your morning with deep breaths. Step outside your tent, breathe in the fresh air, and listen to the quiet sounds of nature waking up.
- 🚶♀️ Take a mindful walk. Focus on what’s around you—the sound of birds, the rustle of leaves, the feel of the path beneath your feet, and the warmth of the sun.
- 🔥 Relax by the campfire. Watch the flames dance, listen to the crackle, and let your thoughts slow down. This is a perfect time to pause and simply be present.
- 🪶 Unplug and be present. Put away devices, silence distractions, and take in the sights, smells, and sounds that make camping so peaceful.
- 🌙 End your day with gratitude. Reflect on one thing you’re thankful for as the stars appear above your campsite. It’s a simple way to leave the day feeling grounded and calm.
- 🧘 Try short mindfulness exercises. Even five minutes of focused breathing or listening to the wind can help you reset and reduce stress.
Camping isn’t just about adventure—it’s also about peace, balance, and being in the moment. By slowing down, noticing your surroundings, and connecting with nature, you can leave feeling refreshed, grounded, and fully recharged. 🌲✨
🕸️ Spider Web Dip
Here’s a fun and spooky Spider Web Dip recipe you can share for Halloween — perfect for a party or campfire snack table! 🕷️🎃
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped tomatoes
- ¼ cup sliced black olives
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix refried beans and taco seasoning. Spread this layer evenly on the bottom of a shallow dish or pie pan.
- Add layers of guacamole, then salsa, and then sprinkle on the shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle chopped tomatoes, olives, and green onions over the top.
- Spoon sour cream into a plastic sandwich bag and snip off a small corner.
- Pipe the sour cream on top in a spider web pattern — start with circles, then connect them with lines from the center outward.
- For an extra touch, place a plastic spider (or make one from black olives!) in the center.
Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy your spooky snack during your next stay at Meramec Campground! 🕸️🖤
Ideas For a Spooky Scavenger Hunt Around the Campground
Here are some fun spooky scavenger hunt ideas perfect for a campground setting 🎃🏕️
👻 Themed Item Hunt
Hide items with a Halloween twist:
- Mini plastic pumpkins 🎃
- Glow-in-the-dark spiders 🕷️
- Skeleton bones or skull trinkets 💀
- Witch hats or broom charms 🧹
- “Potion bottles” filled with colored water 🧪
Give each team a spooky checklist to find them all!
🧛♀️ Clue-Based Adventure
Make it story-driven!
Each clue could be a rhyming riddle leading to the next spooky spot:
- “By the campfire’s flickering light, find the bat that took flight.”
- “Where the shadows grow tall, a ghost waits by the wall.”
End the trail at a “haunted treasure chest” full of candy or small prizes.
🌕 Nighttime Glow Hunt
Use glow sticks or LED candles to mark items or clue spots.
Teams can search in the dark using flashlights or lanterns—it adds a spooky thrill!
🕸️ Nature + Halloween Combo
Include natural items and spooky decorations:
- A pinecone with a spider on it
- A stick shaped like a witch’s wand
- A leaf with a ghost sticker
- A web made from string
🎭 Haunted Character Hunt
Have volunteers dress up as Halloween creatures (zombie, ghost, witch, vampire).
Campers must find each “character” and collect a stamp or secret word from them.
🏆 Bonus Ideas
- Photo Hunt: Take pictures of specific spooky things around the campground.
- Sound Hunt: Record Halloween noises (owl hoots, footsteps, crackling fire).
- Trick-or-Treat Twist: Each clue earns a piece of candy at a different campsite.
Try this during your next stay in the spooky season at Meramec 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!
