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 Mac and Cheese
Campfire mac and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings and camping trips. It’s a twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, but prepared using a campfire or grill for added flavor. Here’s a basic recipe and instructions for making campfire mac and cheese:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta shape you prefer
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite melting cheeses)
- 1 cup milk (evaporated milk works well for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs, cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, chopped herbs for toppings
Instructions:
- Prepare the Campfire:
- Build a campfire or set up a grill with a cooking grate.
- Allow the fire to burn down until you have a bed of hot coals.
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a pot, bring water to a boil and cook the macaroni until firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a heatproof pot or pan, melt the butter over the campfire or grill grate.
- Once the butter is melted, gradually add the milk while stirring to combine.
- Slowly add the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce.
- Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the cheese sauce.
- Cook Over the Campfire:
- Place the pot with the macaroni and cheese sauce over the campfire or grill grate.
- Be cautious not to place it directly over intense flames, as the cheese could burn.
- Cook the mac and cheese for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Serve:
- Once the mac and cheese is heated and has a nice campfire flavor, remove it from the heat.
- You can top the mac and cheese with optional toppings like breadcrumbs, cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or chopped herbs.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the campfire mac and cheese hot, straight from the pot.
- Be sure to allow it to cool slightly before digging in.
Remember, cooking over a campfire requires careful attention to prevent burning, and the cooking times may vary based on the heat of your fire. Use heatproof cookware and utensils designed for outdoor cooking to ensure safety. Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding additional ingredients like roasted vegetables, cooked sausage, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Try this new recipe at your next visit to Meramec Campground.
Treating a Tick Bite
If you’ve been bitten by a tick, it’s important to take prompt and proper action to minimize the risk of infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide for natural treatment:
- Remove the Tick:
- Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the bug as close to your skin’s surface as possible.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking, as this can cause parts of the bug to break off and remain in the skin.
- Clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water after removing the the bug.
- Save the Tick (Optional):
- You might want to save the tick in a small container with a tight lid. This can be useful if you develop symptoms later and need to identify the tick for medical purposes.
- Clean the Bite Area:
- Wash the bitten area with soap and water.
- Disinfect the area using hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol.
- Natural Remedies for Soothing Irritation:
- Aloe vera gel: Apply aloe vera gel to the bite area to help soothe inflammation and itching.
- Calendula cream: Calendula has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in healing.
- Witch hazel: Witch hazel can help reduce itching and inflammation.
- Monitor for Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on the bite area for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or the formation of a pus-filled lesion.
- Watch for symptoms of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever, including fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and rash. These symptoms can appear days to weeks after the bite.
- Boost Your Immune System:
- Eating a healthy diet rich in nutrients can support your immune system’s ability to fight potential infections.
- Stay Hydrated:
- Drinking plenty of water can help flush toxins from your body and support overall health.
Remember that tick bites can carry serious health risks, especially if the tick is a carrier of diseases like Lyme disease. If you develop any concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. Additionally, if you’re in an area known for ticks, consider using tick repellents, wearing protective clothing, and performing regular tick checks after spending time outdoors.
At Meramec Campground we’re all about having fun while being safe.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Campfire skillet spinach artichoke dip with fire-roasted bread is a delicious and comforting appetizer that’s perfect for sharing around the campfire. The creamy and cheesy dip pairs wonderfully with fire-roasted bread, making it a delightful treat for any camping gathering. Here’s how to make this scrumptious campfire dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick of heat)
For the Fire-Roasted Bread:
- 1 loaf of French bread or baguette
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
Instructions:
- Prepare the campfire: Build a campfire and allow it to burn down until you have hot coals suitable for cooking. Set up a sturdy and stable cooking grate over the campfire.
- Make the Spinach Artichoke Dip: In a cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over the campfire. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the spinach and artichoke hearts to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the mixture cook for a few minutes until heated through.
- Mix in the cheeses: Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and create a creamy base.
- Incorporate the creamy ingredients: Stir in the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Season the dip: Season the dip with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
- Prepare the Fire-Roasted Bread: While the dip is simmering, slice the French bread or baguette into thick slices. Brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Toast the bread: Lay the oiled and seasoned bread slices directly on the campfire grate. Toast them until they develop grill marks and become slightly charred on both sides.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the skillet with the spinach-artichoke dip from the campfire and place it on a heat-resistant surface. Serve the dip hot, alongside the fire-roasted bread slices for dipping.
This campfire skillet spinach artichoke dip with fire-roasted bread is a delightful and flavorful appetizer that will be a hit with your camping companions. The creamy and cheesy dip paired with the smoky and crispy bread is a match made in camping heaven! Enjoy this delicious treat as you gather around the campfire and savor the great outdoors
Try this scrumptious dip at your next visit with us at Meramec Campground!
Activities Around the Fire
The campfire is the heart of any camping trip, and it’s a perfect setting for various enjoyable activities. Here are some fun and entertaining activities to do around the campfire:
- Campfire stories: Share spooky ghost stories, funny anecdotes, or make up imaginative tales to entertain everyone around the fire. Take turns telling stories to keep the excitement going.
- Roast marshmallows and make s’mores: A classic camping activity, roasting marshmallows over the fire and sandwiching them between graham crackers and chocolate to make s’mores is always a hit.
- Campfire songs: Singing campfire songs is a great way to create a joyful atmosphere. Bring along a guitar or any other musical instruments if you have them, or simply sing acapella together.
- Stargazing: After the campfire has died down a bit, take some time to enjoy the night sky. Identify constellations and share interesting facts about stars.
- Campfire cooking: Use the campfire to cook other delicious treats, like foil packet meals, campfire pizzas, or cinnamon rolls in an orange peel. Get creative with your campfire cooking skills!
- Firelight charades: Play charades in the flickering light of the campfire. Write down words or phrases on slips of paper and have each person act them out while others guess.
- Campfire games: Play games like “I Spy,” 20 Questions, or “Would You Rather” around the campfire. These games are simple, fun, and perfect for group bonding.
- Roast hot dogs or sausages: Roast hot dogs or sausages on sticks over the fire. It’s a classic camping activity that everyone can enjoy.
- Campfire crafts: Get creative and make campfire crafts like DIY fire starters, lanterns, or friendship bracelets.
- Shadow puppets: Use the campfire light to create shadow puppets on a tent or a screen made from a bedsheet. It’s a great activity for kids and adults alike.
- Glow stick dance party: After the campfire dies down, break out some glow sticks and have a dance party under the stars.
- Campfire poetry: Encourage family members or friends to write their own campfire poems or haikus and share them around the fire.
Remember to always practice campfire safety and follow any rules or regulations regarding campfires in the area where you are camping. Extinguish the fire completely before going to bed or leaving the campsite. With these campfire activities, you can create wonderful memories on your trip. Come visit us today at Meramec Campground to enjoy all these activities.
Campfire Apple Crisp
Campfire apple crisp is a tasty and easy dessert that you can enjoy while camping. It consists of a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling topped with a crunchy oat crumble, all cooked over the campfire. Here’s a simple recipe for campfire apple crisp:
Ingredients:
- 4-6 apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
- Prepare your campfire and let it burn down to a bed of hot coals.
- In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well coated. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Divide the apple mixture among individual foil pie pans or create individual foil packets by tearing off large pieces of aluminum foil, around 12-16 inches long.
- Sprinkle the oat crumble mixture evenly over the apples in each pie pan or foil packet.
- Fold the sides of the foil up and over the apple mixture and crumble topping, creating a sealed packet. Fold and crimp the edges tightly to prevent any steam or juices from escaping.
- Place the foil packets or pie pans on a grate over the hot coals or on a grill grate over the campfire. Cook for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp. Rotate the packets or pans occasionally for even cooking.
- Carefully remove the foil packets or pie pans from the fire using tongs or heat-resistant gloves. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before opening.
- Open the foil packets or serve directly from the pie pans. Serve the campfire apple crisps warm, and if desired, top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of campfire apple crisps while camping. The combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and crunchy oat crumble is sure to be a hit around the campfire. Join us at Meramec Campground to show off your tasty creation!
RV Camping Essentials
When RV camping, it’s important to pack essential items that will ensure your comfort, convenience, and safety during your trip. Here’s a list of essentials to consider for RV camping:
- RV Supplies:
- RV Documentation: Bring your RV registration, insurance information, and any required permits or campground reservations.
- RV Manuals: Keep manuals for your RV appliances, systems, and equipment handy.
- RV Leveling Blocks: These are useful for leveling your RV on uneven terrain.
- RV Awning Mat or Rug: Provide a clean and comfortable outdoor living area.
- RV Sewer Hose and Accessories: Essential for proper waste disposal and sanitation.
- Bedding and Linens:
- Sheets, pillows, and blankets suitable for your RV’s sleeping areas.
- Towels, including bath towels, kitchen towels, and hand towels.
- Kitchen and Cooking Supplies:
- Cookware: Pots, pans, baking sheets, and cooking utensils.
- Plates, bowls, cups, and silverware.
- Cutting board, knives, and kitchen tools.
- Food storage containers and resealable bags.
- Can opener, bottle opener, and corkscrew.
- Cooking appliances and equipment, such as a portable grill or camping stove.
- Food and Drinks:
- Plan and pack meals and snacks that are suitable for RV cooking.
- Non-perishable items and long-lasting food options are convenient for longer trips.
- Don’t forget to bring drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic if desired.
- Personal Essentials:
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and other personal hygiene items.
- Medications: Bring any necessary prescription medications and a basic first aid kit.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Extra clothing suitable for the weather conditions.
- RV Maintenance and Safety:
- Basic toolkit with essential tools.
- Flashlights, headlamps, and extra batteries.
- Fire extinguisher, smoke detector, and carbon monoxide detector.
- RV leveling system or leveling blocks.
- Tire pressure gauge and tire maintenance equipment.
- RV electrical adapters and extension cords.
- Outdoor and Recreational Gear:
- Camping chairs, folding table, and outdoor mat for comfortable outdoor living.
- Outdoor recreational equipment, such as bicycles, hiking gear, or fishing gear.
- Portable grill, campfire cooking utensils, and firewood (if allowed).
- Miscellaneous:
- Camping guidebooks, maps, and travel information.
- Entertainment items like books, board games, or portable electronic devices.
- Trash bags for proper waste disposal.
- Reusable water bottles and water containers.
Remember to consider the specific needs and preferences of your camping trip when packing. It’s helpful to make a checklist and plan ahead to ensure you have everything you need for an enjoyable RV camping experience. Many items are also available in our camp store. We hope to see everyone soon at Meramec Campground!
Campfire Quesadillas
We all enjoy quesadillas from restaurants near us but have you tried making these quesadillas over a campfire? Well, now you can with our recipe below!
Ingredients:
- Tortillas (flour or corn)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Optional fillings: cooked chicken, cooked steak, sautéed vegetables, sliced jalapeños, etc.
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, etc.
- Cooking oil or non-stick spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the campfire: Build a fire and let it burn down to hot coals. You should have a good bed of hot coals for cooking.
- Place a cast-iron skillet or griddle on a sturdy surface over the hot coals. Let it heat up for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, assemble your quesadillas. Take one tortilla and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over half of it. Add any desired fillings such as cooked chicken, cooked steak, sautéed vegetables, or sliced jalapeños. Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape.
- Lightly grease the hot skillet or griddle with cooking oil or non-stick spray.
- Carefully place the assembled quesadilla onto the hot surface. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
- Using a spatula, flip the quesadilla over and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s crispy and the cheese has melted.
- Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool slightly before slicing it into wedges.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
- Serve the campfire quesadillas with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious campfire quesadillas! They make for a great meal or snack as you explore Meramec Campground.
RV Organization
Organization is important when camping in an RV, as space can be limited. Here are some tips for keeping your RV organized:
- Use storage containers: Use storage containers to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. This will help you save space and make it easier to find what you need.
- Utilize vertical space: RVs have limited floor space, so make use of vertical space. Install shelves, hooks, and racks to store items like kitchen utensils, towels, and clothing.
- Keep things secure: While driving, make sure to secure all loose items to prevent them from falling or shifting during transit. Use bungee cords, straps, or storage nets to keep things in place.
- Create a designated space for everything: Assign a specific location for everything in your RV. This will make it easier to find things and keep everything organized.
- Minimize clutter: Keep your RV free of clutter by regularly getting rid of items you don’t need. This will help free up space and make it easier to keep things organized.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your RV stays organized and clutter-free, making for a more enjoyable camping experience.
Meramec Campground is a wonderful place to test out your organizational skills. Come visit us today!
What Not to Bring
When going camping, it’s important to pack wisely and bring only what you need. Here are some things you should avoid bringing:
- Valuables: Avoid bringing expensive jewelry, electronics, or other valuables that you don’t need while camping. These items can be lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Non-essential kitchen appliances: Unless you are camping in an RV or camper with a power hookup, it’s best to avoid bringing non-essential kitchen appliances like blenders, toasters, or coffee makers. Instead, focus on lightweight and portable cooking equipment like a camping stove or a portable grill.
- Glass containers: Glass containers are fragile and heavy, making them a poor choice for camping. Opt for lightweight, shatterproof containers instead.
- Perfume or scented products: Strong scents can attract bugs and wildlife, so avoid bringing perfume, scented lotions, or other fragrant products.
- Large amounts of food: It’s important to pack enough food for your trip, but avoid bringing too much. This can attract animals and make it difficult to pack out your trash.
- Expired or spoiled food: Check expiration dates before packing any food items. Expired or spoiled food can cause food poisoning and attract wildlife.
- Non-biodegradable items: Avoid bringing non-biodegradable items like plastic bags, Styrofoam containers, or disposable utensils. These items can harm the environment and take years to decompose.
Remember to always follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash and waste to help preserve the natural environment for future generations.
If you would like to put your skills to use, book your site at Meramec Campground.
Monkey Bread
Monkey bread is a delicious and easy camping breakfast that can be cooked in a Dutch oven over the campfire. Here’s a simple recipe that you can try:
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
- Cut each biscuit into quarters and set aside.
- In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Add the biscuit pieces to the bag, seal, and shake to coat.
- Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until melted.
- Add the biscuit pieces to the Dutch oven, making sure they are evenly distributed.
- Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and place it over the campfire.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes, rotating the Dutch oven occasionally, until the monkey bread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
About Monkey Bread
Monkey bread, also known as pull-apart bread or bubble bread, is a sweet, sticky pastry often served as a breakfast treat or dessert. It’s made by baking small pieces of dough, usually coated in butter, sugar, and cinnamon, in a bundt pan. When baked, the pieces stick together, forming a loaf that can be easily pulled apart by hand.
Enjoy your delicious monkey bread while camping 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!
