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!
Why Spring is the Best Time to Camp
If you’ve been waiting all winter to dust off your camping gear, spring is your sign to get back outside. While summer tends to get all the attention, seasoned campers know that spring might actually be the best time to camp—and here’s why.
🌿 Comfortable Weather (Finally!)
Spring hits that sweet spot between the chill of winter and the heat of summer. Days are warm enough to enjoy hiking, fishing, or relaxing by the fire, while nights are still cool enough for cozy campfires and hoodies. No sweating through your tent or freezing overnight—just right.
🌸 Nature is at Its Best
Everything comes alive in the spring. Trees are budding, flowers are blooming, and the landscape feels fresh and full of color. It’s the perfect time for nature walks, scenic photos, and just soaking in the views you don’t get any other time of year.
🐦 Wildlife is Active
Spring is one of the best times to spot wildlife. Birds are migrating, animals are more active, and you’re more likely to catch glimpses of nature doing its thing. Whether you’re birdwatching or just enjoying the sounds around your campsite, it adds a whole new layer to your trip.
🚫 Fewer Crowds
Let’s be honest—summer camping can get busy. Spring offers a quieter, more relaxed experience. You’ll have more space, less noise, and a better chance at snagging your favorite campsite without the rush.
🔥 Perfect Campfire Season
Cool spring evenings make campfires even better. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, cooking dinner, or just unwinding after a long day outside, it’s the kind of atmosphere that makes camping memorable.
💰 Early Season Deals
Many campgrounds offer early-season pricing or specials, making spring camping not only enjoyable—but budget-friendly too. It’s a great way to kick off the camping season without breaking the bank.
Ready to Spring Into Camping?
Spring doesn’t last forever—so take advantage of the perfect weather, peaceful campsites at Camp Lakewood Campground, and beautiful scenery while you can. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or your first trip of the season, there’s no better time to get outside and enjoy it.
🥕 Campfire Carrot Cake Foil Packs
An easy, warm Easter dessert made right over the fire
If you’re looking for a simple Easter treat that feels homemade without the hassle, these campfire carrot cake foil packs are a must-try. They’re warm, soft, and full of that classic carrot cake flavor—plus, there’s almost no cleanup!
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 box carrot cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the box (usually eggs, water, oil)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (fresh is best)
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional, for extra moisture & flavor)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter
Optional Toppings:
- Cream cheese frosting
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
🔥 What You’ll Need
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Campfire grate or grill surface
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep Your Fire
Start by getting your campfire going and let it burn down to hot coals. You don’t want big flames—steady heat is key for even cooking.
2. Mix the Batter
In a bowl, combine the carrot cake mix with the required eggs, oil, and water.
Stir in:
- Shredded carrots
- Crushed pineapple (optional)
- Nuts (optional)
Mix until smooth, but don’t overmix.
3. Build Your Foil Packs
- Tear off large sheets of heavy-duty foil (about 12–18 inches long).
- Lightly grease the center with cooking spray or butter.
- Scoop about ¾–1 cup of batter into the middle of each sheet.
4. Seal Them Up
Fold the foil into a sealed packet:
- Bring the long sides together and fold down
- Roll up the ends tightly
Leave a little room inside for the cake to expand while cooking.
5. Cook Over the Fire
Place foil packs on a grill grate or directly on hot coals.
- Cook for 20–25 minutes
- Flip halfway through for even baking
6. Check for Doneness
Carefully open one pack (watch for steam!) and check:
- Cake should be set and fluffy
- A toothpick or stick should come out clean
If needed, reseal and cook for another 5 minutes.
🍰 Serve & Enjoy
Let cool slightly, then top with:
- A dollop of cream cheese frosting (melts perfectly over warm cake 😍)
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar
- Or just enjoy it as-is!
Try this recipe this Easter Sunday at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Spring Break at the Campground: The Perfect Family Getaway
When most people think of spring break, they imagine crowded beaches, long travel days, and expensive hotels. But this year, why not skip the stress and choose something simpler—and just as memorable?
A spring break getaway at the campground is the perfect way to relax, reconnect, and make lasting family memories.
🌿 Affordable & Stress-Free
Traditional vacations can get expensive fast. Camping offers a budget-friendly alternative with no flights, fewer expenses, and meals made right at your campsite.
It’s everything you love about a getaway—without the high price tag.
🔥 More Time Together
Camping naturally brings families closer. From campfires and games to hiking and cooking meals together, it’s quality time you just don’t get in a hotel.
No distractions—just time to enjoy each other.
🌸 Why Spring is the Perfect Time
Spring camping means:
- Mild temperatures
- Blooming flowers
- Active wildlife
- Fewer crowds
It’s peaceful, refreshing, and the perfect break after winter.
🎣 Fun for Everyone
Spend your days fishing, exploring, biking, or just relaxing outdoors. At night, gather around the fire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the stars.
Simple moments become the best memories.
🌧 Rain or Shine, It’s an Adventure
A little rain doesn’t ruin a camping trip—it makes it memorable. Cozy up, play games, and enjoy a slower pace.
📅 Plan Your Getaway
Skip the crowds this year and choose connection, relaxation, and affordability.
Book your spring break camping trip at Camp Lakewood Campground today—and make memories your family will never forget! 🌿🏕️
Pecan Pie Bars
Here’s a simple, delicious recipe for Pecan Pie Bars—all the flavor of Pecan Pie but easier to make and perfect for sharing around a campfire! 🥧🌰
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- ¼ tsp salt
For the pecan filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, butter, and salt until crumbly.
Press evenly into the bottom of the pan. - Bake the crust
Bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden. - Prepare the filling
In another bowl whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt.
Stir in the pecans. - Assemble
Pour the pecan mixture over the hot crust. - Bake again
Bake for 25–30 minutes until the center is set. - Cool completely
Let cool before cutting into bars.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chocolate chips 🍫
- A drizzle of caramel
- Sprinkle of sea salt for salted pecan pie bars
✅ Tip: Chill them for about an hour before cutting—this helps the bars hold their shape.
Try this recipe the next time you stay at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Tent vs. RV Camping: Which One Is Right for You?
Both are amazing — just very different vibes. It all comes down to what kind of experience you want!
⛺ Tent Camping: The Classic Outdoor Experience
If you’re all about fresh air, campfires, and hearing every little nighttime nature sound… tent camping might be your thing.
Why people love it:
- Budget-friendly
- Closer to nature
- Simple setup (well… mostly 😉)
- Great for quick weekend getaways
- Feels adventurous
Best for:
- Couples
- Small families
- Outdoor lovers
- Campers who don’t mind “roughing it” a little
Things to consider:
- Weather matters (a lot)
- Limited storage
- Bathroom trips = real trips
Tent camping is perfect if you want to unplug and truly slow down.
🚐 RV Camping: Comfort Meets the Outdoors
If you like your coffee hot, your bed comfy, and your AC working… RV life might be calling your name.
Why people love it:
- Climate control (huge win in summer & winter)
- Real mattress
- Private bathroom
- Full kitchen
- Storage for days
Best for:
- Families with kids
- Longer stays
- First-time campers
- Campers who love comfort
Things to consider:
- Higher upfront cost
- Larger sites needed
- Setup takes a little know-how
RV camping lets you enjoy nature without giving up the conveniences of home.
So… Which One Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
- Do you want adventure or comfort?
- Weekend escape or extended stay?
- Minimal gear or all the extras?
Honestly? There’s no wrong answer. Some of the best campers switch between both depending on the season! At Camp Lakewood Campground, we have options for both!
🥜🍫 Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
Need a sweet treat after a long day of camping adventures? Try this recipe!
Ingredients:
- Graham crackers
- Peanut butter cups (regular or mini)
- Marshmallows
Directions:
- Roast a marshmallow over the campfire until golden and gooey.
- Place a peanut butter cup on one half of a graham cracker.
- Add the hot marshmallow on top of the peanut butter cup.
- Top with the second graham cracker and gently press.
- Let it melt for a few seconds… then enjoy by the fire 🔥
Campground Tip:
Wrap the assembled s’more in foil and set it near the fire for 1–2 minutes for extra melty goodness.
Optional Upgrades:
- Use chocolate graham crackers
- Add banana slices
- Swap a marshmallow for a peanut butter–filled marshmallow 🤯
This is the perfect sweet treat to end your camping adventure at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Why Winter Is the Quietest—and Best—Season at the Campground
When most people think of camping, they picture summer sunshine, crowded campgrounds, and packed weekends. But seasoned campers know a secret: winter camping is when campgrounds truly shine. If you’re looking for peace, affordability, and a deeper connection to nature, winter might just be the best season to camp.
Here’s why winter is the quietest—and arguably the best—time to enjoy the campground.
1. Fewer Campers, More Space
Winter naturally brings smaller crowds, which means:
- More privacy at your campsite
- Quieter mornings and evenings
- Less competition for the best spots
Instead of hearing neighboring campers, you’ll hear the wind through the trees, wildlife moving nearby, and the crackle of your campfire. It’s camping the way it was meant to be.
2. Peaceful Winter Scenery
Winter transforms campgrounds into something magical. Snow-dusted trees, frost-covered ground, and misty mornings create postcard-worthy views you won’t see any other time of year.
Photography lovers, nature walkers, and anyone craving calm will appreciate the slower pace and serene beauty winter brings.
3. Better Rates and Availability
With demand lower, winter camping often comes with perks:
- More flexible booking options
- Better availability for longer stays
- A quieter experience without peak-season pricing pressure
It’s a great time to plan a spontaneous getaway or extend your stay without the stress of sold-out weekends.
4. Cozier Camping Experiences
Winter camping is all about comfort and coziness. Think:
- Warm drinks by the fire
- Bundling up under extra blankets
- Cooking hearty meals outdoors
RV campers especially love winter stays, as they can enjoy all the comforts of home while soaking in peaceful campground views.
5. A Slower, More Intentional Escape
Winter camping encourages you to slow down. Without packed schedules or busy amenities, you can:
- Read, relax, and recharge
- Take peaceful walks through the campground
- Spend quality time with family or friends
It’s the perfect reset from everyday life.
6. Ideal for Nature Lovers
Wildlife is often easier to spot in winter, and trails feel more personal without heavy foot traffic. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, hiking, or simply observing nature, winter offers a unique and intimate experience.
Is Winter Camping Right for You?
If you value quiet mornings, open spaces, and cozy nights, winter camping is absolutely worth trying. With the right preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding camping experiences of the year.
So while others wait for summer, consider embracing the calm. Winter might just become your new favorite camping season.
Ready to experience the peaceful side of camping? Winter stays at Camp Lakewood Campground are waiting!
Egg White Wrap Breakfast Sandwich
Here’s a simple, tasty Egg White Wrap Breakfast Sandwich idea—great for a quick morning bite or a healthy grab-and-go option 🥚🌯
Ingredients:
- Egg white wrap (or egg white tortilla)
- 2–3 egg whites, cooked
- Turkey sausage or turkey bacon (optional)
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Sliced avocado or tomato
- Light cheese (feta, mozzarella, or cheddar)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Warm the egg white wrap in a skillet for a few seconds per side.
- Scramble or cook egg whites until fluffy.
- Layer egg whites, protein, greens, and cheese onto the wrap.
- Add avocado or tomato, season lightly.
- Fold or roll into a sandwich wrap and enjoy!
Why you’ll love it:
- High protein
- Low carb & lighter than a traditional breakfast sandwich
- Customizable with your favorite fillings
Try this amazing breakfast recipe the next time you stay at Camp Lakewood Campground!
The Coziest Campsite Setup for Holiday Camping
Holiday camping brings together the best of both worlds: the peaceful beauty of the outdoors and the warmth of the season. With the right setup, your campsite can feel just as cozy—if not cozier—than home. Whether you’re camping for a weekend getaway or creating a new holiday tradition, here’s how to build the ultimate cozy campsite for winter adventures.
Start with Warmth as the Foundation
Cold-weather camping is all about layers. Begin with insulated sleeping bags rated for winter temperatures and add extra blankets for comfort. Foam or insulated sleeping pads help block the cold from the ground and make a big difference on chilly nights. Heated blankets or hand warmers (where allowed) can also add an extra layer of comfort.
Light It Up for a Festive Glow
Soft lighting instantly transforms a campsite. String lights around your awning, tent, or picnic area to create a warm holiday glow. Battery-powered lanterns, LED candles, or solar lights are safe, easy options that add ambiance without hassle. Stick to warm white lights for that extra-cozy feel.
Create a Cozy Seating Area
Set up camp chairs with thick blankets, outdoor pillows, or even a rug to define your space. This becomes the perfect spot for sipping hot cocoa, sharing stories, or simply enjoying the crackle of the campfire. A small folding table nearby keeps mugs, snacks, and games within reach.
Bring the Campfire Comforts
The campfire is the heart of any cozy campsite. Stock up on firewood (or confirm availability onsite), and keep roasting sticks, cast iron cookware, or a Dutch oven handy. Warm meals and treats—like chili, foil-packet dinners, or s’mores—make winter camping extra special.
Add Simple Holiday Touches
A little décor goes a long way. Think mini wreaths, festive tablecloths, or subtle holiday accents that are easy to pack and weather-friendly. Keep it simple and secure everything properly so the décor doesn’t interfere with nature or campground rules.
Don’t Forget the Little Comforts
Hot drinks, thick socks, beanies, and gloves are must-haves. Bring a thermos to keep beverages warm and a tote for quick-grab layers. These small details help you stay comfortable and relaxed all day and night.
Make It About the Memories
The coziest campsite isn’t just about what you bring—it’s about how you enjoy it. Slow mornings, quiet evenings by the fire, and time spent together are what truly make holiday camping magical.
With a little planning and a lot of warmth, your holiday campsite at Camp Lakewood Campground can become a winter retreat you’ll want to return to year after year! Cozy up, enjoy the season, and make memories under the winter sky!
🔥 Campfire Ham Steaks with Pineapple
Sweet, smoky, and ready in minutes—perfect for camping during the holidays!
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
- 2–4 ham steaks
- 1 can pineapple rings (with juice) or fresh pineapple slices
- 2–3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
- 1–2 tbsp pineapple juice (optional but adds big flavor!)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Heavy-duty foil
Instructions
1. Prep your foil packets
Tear off large sheets of heavy-duty foil—one per ham steak.
Lightly spray or butter the center to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the ingredients
Place one ham steak in the center of each foil sheet.
Top with:
- 1–2 pineapple rings
- A few small pats of butter
- A sprinkle of brown sugar
- A splash of pineapple juice (if using)
Season lightly with salt & pepper.
3. Seal the packets
Fold the foil tightly around the ingredients, creating a sealed pouch so the juices stay inside and steam the ham.
4. Cook over the campfire
Place packets on a grate over medium campfire heat or hot coals.
Cook 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
They’re done when the ham is heated through and the pineapple begins to caramelize.
5. Serve + enjoy
Open packets carefully (hot steam!) and serve straight from the foil for an easy cleanup meal. The buttery pineapple sauce is amazing drizzled over the top.
Try this festive and heartwarming meal the next time you stay at Camp Lakewood 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!
