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!
The Spooky Legends of Meramec, Missouri
Meramec and Sullivan, Missouri, are rich with spooky legends and eerie tales that have been passed down for generations. Here are a few chilling stories from the area. Read on if you dare!
The Haunted Meramec Caverns
Meramec Caverns, a famous cave system near Sullivan, is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its haunted history. Visitors and employees have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, hearing disembodied voices, and feeling cold spots throughout the caves. One of the most popular legends involves the spirit of Jesse James, the infamous outlaw who is rumored to have used the caverns as a hideout. Some claim that the ghost of Jesse James or his gang members still roam the caverns, protecting their hidden treasure.
The Screaming Woods of Meramec State Park
Meramec State Park, with its dense woods and winding trails, has its own spine-chilling lore. Campers and hikers have reported hearing unearthly screams echoing through the trees at night. Some say it’s the spirit of a Native American warrior, while others believe it’s a banshee or a lost soul trapped in the woods. The screams are said to grow louder the closer you get to the park’s remote areas, only to suddenly stop, leaving an eerie silence.
The Ghost Lights of Bourbon Road
On the winding, rural Bourbon Road near Sullivan, there are reports of mysterious, floating lights known as the “Ghost Lights.” Described as glowing orbs that appear along the road or in the nearby woods, these lights have puzzled locals for decades. Some believe they are the spirits of miners who died in a nearby cave collapse, forever wandering in search of the light that will lead them home. Others say they are the souls of those who drowned in the Meramec River. Drivers who have tried to follow the lights report them disappearing suddenly, leaving an eerie silence and a sense of being watched.
The Sullivan Witch’s Grave
In a small, forgotten cemetery on the outskirts of Sullivan, there lies a gravestone that locals refer to as the Sullivan Witch’s Grave. According to legend, a woman accused of practicing dark magic in the late 1800s was buried here. Her grave is said to be cursed, and those who disturb it have reported strange occurrences: sudden chills, whispers from the surrounding woods, or even sightings of a shadowy figure lurking near the headstone. The grass around the grave never seems to grow, and some claim that on certain nights, her spirit rises, seeking revenge on those who wronged her.
The Haunted Bridge at Possum Hollow Road
Possum Hollow Road, a quiet, rural road near Sullivan, has a bridge that is said to be haunted. Local folklore tells of a tragic accident involving a family whose car plunged off the bridge into the river below. The bridge is now rumored to be a hotspot for paranormal activity. Those brave enough to visit at night have reported hearing the cries of a child, phantom footsteps on the bridge, or the eerie feeling of unseen hands pushing them. Some say that if you stop on the bridge and turn off your car, you may feel it start to move as if being pushed by ghostly forces.
The Shadow People of Pea Ridge
Pea Ridge, a small, secluded area near Sullivan, is home to stories of shadow people—dark, shadowy figures that appear in the corner of your eye but vanish when you turn to look directly at them. Residents have reported feeling an oppressive presence when walking through the area, especially near dusk. Some believe these shadow people are the spirits of early settlers or Native Americans who once roamed the land. Others think they are something more sinister—perhaps entities from another dimension or the spirits of those who died tragically and are unable to move on.
The Sullivan Ghost Train
The legend of the “Sullivan Ghost Train” dates back to the days when the railroad was the lifeline of small towns like Sullivan. It is said that on foggy nights, a ghostly train can be heard speeding along the old tracks, whistleblowing and wheels clattering. Some claim to have seen the faint outline of a steam locomotive moving down the tracks, but when it gets close, it vanishes into thin air. The story goes that the train was involved in a tragic accident, and now it repeats its final journey eternally.
The Devil’s Run Road
A rural road near Sullivan, known as Devil’s Run, is said to be one of the most haunted spots in the area. According to local legend, those who drive down this road at night have encountered a spectral figure known as the “Lady in White,” who appears suddenly in the middle of the road, causing drivers to swerve or stop. Some say she was a bride who died tragically on her wedding day and now haunts the area, searching for her lost love. Others have reported hearing whispers and footsteps, seeing strange lights, and feeling an overwhelming sense of dread while traveling the road.
The Phantom Hitchhiker of Route 66
Route 66 runs through Sullivan, and like many places along this historic highway, it has its share of ghost stories. One tale tells of a phantom hitchhiker who appears late at night, seeking a ride from unsuspecting drivers. Described as a young man wearing old-fashioned clothing, he vanishes from the car without a trace when nearing the town’s edge. Some believe he was a traveler who met an untimely end along the route and is forever trying to find his way home.
These legends add to the eerie atmosphere of Meramec and Sullivan, making them places of fascination for those interested in the paranormal and the unknown. You never know what you might encounter while staying at Meramec Campground!
Oatmeal Recipe
Here’s a simple and delicious oatmeal recipe that’s perfect for breakfast:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
- 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 tbsp sweetener (such as honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar)
- Optional toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, nut butter, dried fruit, cinnamon, vanilla extract, etc.
Instructions:
- Boil Liquid:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a boil over medium-high heat. Add a pinch of salt.
- Add Oats:
- Stir in the oats. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer.
- Cook the Oats:
- Cook the oats, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes if using old-fashioned oats, or until the oats are soft and the mixture has thickened to your liking.
- Sweeten:
- Stir in your sweetener of choice. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
- Serve and Add Toppings:
- Pour the cooked oatmeal into a bowl. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Topping Ideas:
- Fresh Fruit: Sliced bananas, berries, chopped apples, or peaches.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of vanilla extract.
- Nut Butter: Peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter.
- Dried Fruit: Raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates.
- Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Chocolate: A sprinkle of chocolate chips or cocoa nibs for a sweet treat.
Variations:
- Banana Nut Oatmeal: Add sliced bananas and a handful of chopped walnuts. Top with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Berry Almond Oatmeal: Stir in fresh or frozen berries and top with sliced almonds and a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal: Cook the oats with chopped apples and a dash of cinnamon. Top with a handful of pecans and a sprinkle of brown sugar.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter and a few chocolate chips. Top with sliced bananas.
This basic oatmeal recipe is versatile, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it just the way you like it! Try eating this recipe for breakfast on your next camping trip at Meramec Campground!
Plants You Might See While Camping at Meramec Campground
Meramec Campground is located in Missouri, near the Meramec River, and offers a diverse range of plants native to the Ozark region. Here’s a list of plants you might encounter while camping there:
Trees:
- White Oak (Quercus alba): A common hardwood tree with lobed leaves and a light gray bark, providing ample shade.
- Shortleaf Pine (Pinus echinata): Missouri’s only native pine, recognizable by its long needles and small cones.
- Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana): A hardy evergreen with scale-like leaves, often found in rocky areas.
- Black Walnut (Juglans nigra): A large tree with compound leaves and dark, ridged bark, known for its edible nuts.
- American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis): A large tree often found near water, with distinctive peeling bark and large leaves.
Shrubs:
- Ozark Witch Hazel (Hamamelis vernalis): A shrub with yellow-orange flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring.
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea): A small tree or shrub with white spring flowers and edible berries that ripen in early summer.
- Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius): A shrub with peeling bark and clusters of white or pink flowers, often found near streams.
Wildflowers:
- Bluebell (Mertensia virginica): Delicate blue flowers that bloom in early spring, often found in moist, shaded areas.
- Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa): A bright orange wildflower important for monarch butterflies, often found in sunny areas.
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): A fragrant wildflower with pink or lavender blooms, often found in meadows.
- Missouri Primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa): A low-growing plant with large, yellow flowers that bloom in the evening.
- Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Bright yellow flowers with dark centers, common in open fields and along trails.
Ferns and Ground Cover:
- Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides): An evergreen fern that stays green year-round, often found in shaded areas.
- Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense): A low-growing plant with heart-shaped leaves and hidden, ground-level flowers.
- Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum): A woodland plant with large, umbrella-like leaves and a small, hidden flower that produces an apple-like fruit.
Grasses and Sedges:
- Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii): A tall native grass that was once dominant in Missouri’s prairies.
- Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium): A shorter grass with a blue-green color and fluffy seed heads.
- Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans): Another tall grass with golden plumes that appear in late summer.
Invasive Species to Watch Out For:
- Bush Honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii): An invasive shrub with fragrant flowers and red berries, often found in disturbed areas.
- Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica): An aggressive plant with bamboo-like stems and broad leaves, often found near water.
These plants reflect the rich biodiversity of the Ozark region, where Meramec Campground is located. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing, you’re likely to encounter a variety of these native species during your visit.
Honey Grilled Fruit Recipe
Grilled fruit is a delicious and simple treat that’s perfect for camping. The natural sweetness of the fruit is enhanced by the caramelization from the grill, and a drizzle of honey adds a delightful touch. Here’s a recipe to enjoy this easy and tasty dessert on your next camping trip.
Ingredients:
- 2 peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 plums, halved and pitted
- 2 nectarines, halved and pitted
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or wedges
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a campfire, let the fire burn down until you have hot coals with minimal flames.
- Prep the Fruit: While the grill is heating, prepare your fruit. Halve and pit the peaches, plums, and nectarines. Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into rings or wedges.
- Optional Coating: If desired, brush the fruit with melted butter or coconut oil. This can help prevent sticking and add a bit of richness.
- Grill the Fruit: Place the fruit on the grill. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the fruit is slightly softened. Be careful not to overcook; the fruit should still hold its shape.
- Add Honey: As the fruit grills, warm the honey slightly to make it easier to drizzle. You can do this by placing the honey container near the grill or in a warm spot.
- Serve: Remove the grilled fruit from the grill and place it on a serving plate. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon if using.
- Enjoy: Serve the grilled fruit warm. It’s delicious on its own, or you can pair it with yogurt, ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Tips:
- Mix and Match: Feel free to experiment with different fruits. Apples, pears, bananas, and figs are also great options for grilling.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the fruit ahead of time and store it in a cooler until you’re ready to grill.
- Foil Packets: For easy cleanup, you can also cook the fruit in foil packets. Simply place the fruit in a piece of foil, drizzle with honey, wrap it up, and place it on the grill.
Grilled fruit is a versatile and easy camping dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit while adding a touch of smoky flavor. Enjoy this simple yet delightful treat on your next outdoor adventure at Meramec Campground!
Tips for Maintaining Camping Equipment
Maintaining your camping equipment is crucial for ensuring it lasts longer and performs well on your adventures. Here are some tips:
Tips to Maintain:
- Cleanliness: Always clean your equipment after use. Dirt, sand, and grime can degrade materials over time.
- Drying: Ensure everything is completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Storage: Store equipment in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fabrics.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for any signs of wear and tear such as fraying seams, loose threads, or rust on metal parts.
- Repair Promptly: Fix any damages as soon as possible to prevent them from becoming worse. Carry a repair kit for quick fixes in the field.
- Waterproofing: Reapply waterproof coatings as needed, especially on tents and rain gear.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to care instructions provided by the manufacturer for specific gear items.
- Proper Use: Use equipment only for its intended purpose to avoid unnecessary strain and damage.
- Packaging: Use proper packing techniques to avoid over-compressing gear, which can weaken materials over time.
- Educate Yourself: Learn about specific care needs for different types of gear, such as sleeping bags, stoves, and tents, to ensure you’re maintaining them correctly.
By taking care of your camping equipment, you can extend its lifespan and ensure it performs well on your trip to Meramec Campground!
Classic Burger Recipe with Different Seasoning Options
This recipe is the perfect recipe to feed your whole family while camping! It has a few simple ingredients and everyone can customize their own burger however they want!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for juicier burgers)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cheese (optional toppings)
- Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ground Beef:
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 1/4 pound each).
- Gently shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help it cook evenly.
- Season the Patties:
- Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper, or choose one of the seasoning options below.
- Cook the Patties:
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, 4-5 minutes per side for medium, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- If using cheese, add a slice to each patty during the last minute of cooking, covering the grill or skillet to melt the cheese.
- Toast the Buns:
- While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a skillet.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Place the cooked patties on the bottom halves of the buns.
- Add your choice of lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and condiments.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Seasoning Options:
- Classic Salt and Pepper:
- Simply season the patties with salt and pepper for a traditional taste.
- Garlic and Onion:
- Mix 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder into the ground beef before forming the patties.
- Smoky BBQ:
- Mix 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder into the ground beef before forming the patties.
- Spicy Kick:
- Mix 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder into the ground beef before forming the patties.
- Herb and Cheese:
- Mix 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or rosemary) and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the ground beef before forming the patties.
- Mediterranean:
- Mix 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese into the ground beef before forming the patties.
- Asian-Inspired:
- Mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove into the ground beef before forming the patties.
By experimenting with these seasoning options, you can enjoy a variety of delicious burger flavors while keeping the basic cooking method straightforward. Try this simple burger recipe while camping with us at Meramec Campground!
Finding the North Star
Finding the North Star (Polaris) can be useful for navigation while camping. Here’s how you can locate it:
- Locate the Big Dipper (Ursa Major):
- The Big Dipper is a prominent constellation that is easy to identify in the northern sky.
- It looks like a ladle or saucepan, with a handle and a bowl.
- Identify the pointers:
- The two outer stars of the Big Dipper’s bowl are called the pointers because they point towards the North Star.
- Imagine a line extending from the bottom edge of the bowl through these two stars.
- Extend the line to the North Star:
- Extend this imaginary line about five times the distance between the two pointer stars.
- This line will lead you directly to the North Star, which is the last star in the handle of the Little Dipper (Ursa Minor).
- Recognize Polaris:
- Polaris is a moderately bright star, but it may not stand out like some of the brighter stars in the sky.
- It doesn’t twinkle much and tends to maintain a relatively fixed position in the sky due to its alignment with the Earth’s axis.
- Check your alignment:
- Once you’ve identified what you believe to be Polaris, check its alignment with the pointers again to confirm.
- The North Star will always be in the same direction relative to the Earth’s axis, so it should maintain its position throughout the night.
- Using Polaris for direction:
- Once you’ve located Polaris, you can use it as a reference point for determining north.
- If you face Polaris, north will be directly behind you, south in front of you, east to your right, and west to your left.
Remember, Polaris isn’t incredibly bright compared to some other stars, but its position makes it a valuable navigational tool, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Practice identifying the Big Dipper and using it to find Polaris before your camping trip so you can navigate confidently under the stars.
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!
