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!
What to Pack in Your Camping First Aid Kit
Camping is all about enjoying the outdoors, making memories, and unplugging from everyday life—but accidents can happen anywhere. Whether you’re hiking trails, roasting marshmallows by the fire, or swimming at the campground, having a well-stocked first aid kit can make all the difference. Before your next trip, make sure your camping first aid kit is packed with these essentials.
Basic First Aid Supplies
Start with the basics for treating minor cuts, scrapes, and injuries:
- Assorted adhesive bandages (various sizes)
- Sterile gauze pads
- Medical tape
- Elastic bandage wrap
- Antiseptic wipes
- Antibiotic ointment
- Cotton swabs
- Tweezers (great for splinters or ticks)
- Small scissors
- Disposable gloves
Medications to Bring
It’s always smart to have common over-the-counter medications on hand:
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Allergy medication
- Anti-itch cream or hydrocortisone
- Antacids
- Motion sickness medication
- Cold or flu medicine
- Prescription medications your family may need
Outdoor-Specific Essentials
Camping comes with unique situations, so add these must-haves:
- Bug spray or insect repellent
- After-bite treatment
- Sunscreen
- Aloe vera gel for sunburn relief
- Blister pads or moleskin
- Tick remover tool
- Instant cold packs
Emergency Items
For bigger issues or unexpected situations, keep these nearby:
- Emergency blanket
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Whistle
- Small CPR mask or face shield
- Emergency contact list
- Local maps or campground map
Bonus Comfort Items
Not necessarily medical, but definitely useful:
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues
- Lip balm with SPF
- Electrolyte packets
- Extra bottled water
A camping first aid kit doesn’t have to be huge—it just needs to be practical. Packing these essentials ahead of time can help you handle minor mishaps quickly so you can get back to enjoying your trip.
Before heading out to Meramec Campground, double-check your supplies and replace anything expired or used from your last adventure. A little preparation goes a long way when you’re camping outdoors!
🍫🔥 Campfire Ice Cream Cake (No-Bake Campground Dessert Recipe)
Nothing beats a sweet treat around the fire after a long day at the campground. This Campfire Ice Cream Cake is cold, creamy, chocolatey, and ridiculously easy to make with almost no prep. It’s the perfect dessert for families, campers, and anyone who wants something fun without cooking a full meal.
Whether you’re staying at a campsite or just enjoying a backyard fire pit, this recipe brings that classic campground vibe with a dessert everyone will remember.
🏕️ Why This Recipe Works at the Campground
This campfire ice cream cake is perfect for camping because:
- No oven required
- Minimal ingredients
- Can be prepped ahead of time
- Easy to store in a cooler
- Feeds a crowd
- Kid-friendly and mess-free
It’s one of those campground recipes that feels fancy but takes almost no effort.
🛒 Ingredients
You only need a few simple items:
- Graham crackers or chocolate cookies
- Ice cream (any flavor you like)
- Chocolate syrup or fudge sauce
- Whipped topping
- Mini marshmallows (optional, but great for campground flavor)
- Chocolate chips or crushed candy bars
- Aluminum foil pan or camping dish
🔥 How to Make Campfire Ice Cream Cake
1. Build the base
Line your foil pan with a layer of graham crackers or crushed cookies. This creates the “crust” of your ice cream cake.
2. Add ice cream layer
Scoop softened ice cream on top and spread it evenly. You can mix flavors or keep it simple with vanilla or chocolate.
3. Add toppings
Drizzle chocolate syrup or fudge sauce over the ice cream. Sprinkle chocolate chips, crushed candy bars, or marshmallows on top.
4. Repeat layers
For a thicker cake, repeat layers:
- cookies
- ice cream
- toppings
5. Freeze or chill
Place the cake in a cooler or freezer until firm (at least 2–4 hours if possible).
6. Serve at the campground
Slice and serve right at the campsite. Let it sit for a minute so it’s easier to cut.
🔥 Campfire Twist (Optional)
If you want to make it extra “campfire style,” toast mini marshmallows over the fire and sprinkle them on top right before serving.
🏕️ Camping Tips
- Keep ice cream in a well-packed cooler with plenty of ice
- Assemble the cake early in the day
- Use disposable pans for easy cleanup
- Let kids add their own toppings for fun
🍦 Why Campers Love It
This dessert hits that perfect campground balance:
- Cold + creamy after a hot day
- Sweet treat around the fire
- Easy enough to make at any campsite
- Feels like a campground celebration dessert
⭐ Final Thoughts
The Campfire Ice Cream Cake is one of those campground recipes that instantly becomes a tradition. It’s simple, fun, and perfect for making memories around the fire.
Next time you’re camping at Meramec Campground, skip the complicated desserts and go with something cold, sweet, and unforgettable.
How to Go Camping for Under $100
Think camping has to be expensive? Think again.
With a little planning, you can enjoy a full camping trip—fresh air, campfires, and all—for under $100. Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking for a budget-friendly getaway, here’s how to make it happen.
🏕️ 1. Start with an Affordable Campsite
Your campsite will likely be your highest cost—but it doesn’t have to break the bank.
Many campgrounds (like ours 😉) offer sites starting around $30–$40 per night, which leaves plenty of room in your budget for everything else.
Tip:
Book during weekdays or non-peak times for even better rates.
🔥 2. Keep Your Gear Simple
You don’t need top-of-the-line gear to have a great trip.
Stick to the basics:
- Tent (borrow one if you can!)
- Sleeping bags or blankets
- Flashlight
- Chairs (optional but nice)
Budget tip:
Check what you already have at home before buying anything new.
🍔 3. Plan Easy, Affordable Meals
Food is where you can really save money—and still eat well.
Simple camping meals:
- Hot dogs or burgers
- Sandwiches
- Pasta salad
- Foil packet meals
- S’mores (a must 🍫🔥)
You can easily keep food costs around $20–$30 for a short trip.
🎣 4. Choose Free Activities
The best part of camping? Most of it is already free.
Enjoy things like:
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Campfires
- Exploring the campground
- Playing games with family or friends
No tickets, no extra cost—just good time well spent.
🧺 5. Pack Smart (Avoid Extra Spending)
Forgetting things can lead to last-minute purchases that add up fast.
Make sure to bring:
- Paper towels
- Utensils
- Firewood (if allowed)
- Drinks and snacks
A little prep goes a long way in staying on budget.
💸 Sample $100 Camping Budget
Here’s what a simple trip could look like:
- Campsite: $35
- Food: $25
- Firewood/snacks: $15
- Miscellaneous: $10
Total: $85 👏
🌟 Final Thoughts
Camping doesn’t have to be a big expense to be a great experience.
With just $100 (or less), you can unplug, relax, and make memories that last way longer than the weekend.
So grab your gear, gather your crew, and start planning your next affordable adventure at Meramec Campground—you might be surprised how little it takes to have a really good time.
Classic Chicken Salad Wraps
Packed with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a touch of your favorite herbs and seasonings, these chicken salad wraps are a fresh twist on a classic dish—ready in minutes and perfect for any camping trip!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves or tortilla wraps
Optional Add-ins:
- Grapes or apple chunks for sweetness
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts) for crunch
- Herbs like dill or parsley
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine chicken, mayo, celery, onion, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in any optional add-ins.
- Place lettuce or a tortilla on a plate, and spoon chicken salad in the center.
- Fold or roll tightly into a wrap.
- Serve chilled or at room temp.
Try this recipe the next time you stay at Meramec Campground!
How to Host the Best Game Night While Camping
Hosting a game night while camping is a great way to bring everyone together after a day outdoors. With a little planning, you can turn your campsite into a fun evening hangout that everyone will remember. Here’s how to make it a success! 🎲🔥
1. Choose Games That Work Outdoors
Pick games that are easy to play on a picnic table or around the campfire. Some great options include:
- Card games (Uno, Go Fish, Poker)
- Dice games
- Travel-sized board games
- Charades
- Trivia games
- Campfire storytelling games
Games with simple rules and minimal pieces work best since campsite surfaces aren’t always perfectly flat.
2. Set Up a Cozy Game Area
Make the space comfortable and inviting:
- Use a picnic table or camp table for board games.
- Bring camp chairs or blankets so everyone has a seat.
- Set up lanterns, string lights, or headlamps for lighting.
- If you’re by the fire, position seating in a circle around the campfire.
The goal is to create a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can see and hear each other.
3. Prepare Easy Camp Snacks
Game night is always better with snacks. Try things that are simple to eat outdoors:
- Popcorn over the campfire
- Trail mix
- S’mores
- Chips and dip
- Campfire nachos
Keeping snacks easy helps avoid sticky hands all over the game pieces.
4. Mix Competitive and Silly Games
A good game night has a little bit of everything. Try:
- Team games to get everyone involved
- Quick rounds so new players can jump in
- Funny or creative games like charades or “Would You Rather.”
This keeps the energy fun and prevents anyone from feeling left out.
5. Add a Friendly Prize
Make things extra exciting with a small prize:
- First pick of breakfast the next morning
- Bragging rights for the weekend
- A funny camping trophy
It adds a little competition while keeping things lighthearted.
6. End the Night with the Campfire
After the games wind down, keep the evening going by relaxing around the fire:
- Tell stories
- Roast marshmallows
- Listen to the sounds of nature
Sometimes the best part of game night is the laughter and conversation that comes afterward! Host your next game night during your stay at Meramec Campground!
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!
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!
