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!
🎃 DIY Ghost Lanterns for Camping
Here’s a simple guide to making Ghost Lanterns that you can take camping for a spooky glow around your campsite:
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Empty plastic milk jugs or large clear bottles
- White spray paint (optional, for an extra ghostly look)
- Black permanent marker or black craft paint
- String lights, battery-powered candles, or glow sticks (safe for camping!)
- Scissors or a craft knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Clean & Dry Jugs
- Rinse out milk jugs or bottles and let them fully dry.
- Rinse out milk jugs or bottles and let them fully dry.
- Make the Ghost Face
- Use a permanent marker or black paint to draw spooky ghost faces — you can make them scary, silly, or cute.
- Use a permanent marker or black paint to draw spooky ghost faces — you can make them scary, silly, or cute.
- Add the Light Source
- Cut a small hole in the back of the jug (near the bottom) and insert string lights, a glow stick, or a battery-powered tea light.
- Avoid real candles since they’re a fire hazard in plastic.
- Cut a small hole in the back of the jug (near the bottom) and insert string lights, a glow stick, or a battery-powered tea light.
- Optional: Spray Paint White
- If your jug isn’t already white or foggy, lightly spray with white paint to give it a misty, ghostly effect.
- If your jug isn’t already white or foggy, lightly spray with white paint to give it a misty, ghostly effect.
- Set Them Around Your Campsite
- Place them along pathways, near your tent, or around the campfire circle. They’ll glow at night and look like floating little ghosts.
- Place them along pathways, near your tent, or around the campfire circle. They’ll glow at night and look like floating little ghosts.
✨ Tip: If you bring multiple, you can line them up to create a spooky “ghost trail” leading to your campsite!
Try this adding this festive decor to your campsite the next time you stay at Camp Lakewood Campground during the Halloween Season!
🥔 Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Why choose between deviled eggs and classic potato salad when you can have both? This flavorful recipe combines the creamy, tangy goodness of deviled eggs with the hearty comfort of potato salad—all in one delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
- 6 hard-boiled eggs (4 chopped, 2 sliced for garnish)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard (or Dijon for a twist)
- 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish (or dill if you prefer)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp paprika (plus more for garnish)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2–3 green onions or fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Celery (2 stalks, finely diced – optional for crunch)
Instructions:
- Cook the potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Boil until fork-tender (about 10–12 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the eggs: Peel and chop 4 hard-boiled eggs. Slice the other 2 for topping.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, relish, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
- Combine: Gently fold in potatoes, chopped eggs, celery, and green onions until well coated.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend.
- Garnish & serve: Top with sliced eggs, a sprinkle of paprika, and extra chives before serving.
✨ Perfect for cookouts, camping trips, or family dinners!
Try this recipe during your next stay at Camp Lakewood Campground!
How to Make a Camp Shower
Here’s a simple guide on how to make a camp shower—easy, budget-friendly, and adaptable depending on what supplies you have.
1. Solar Shower Bag (Easiest DIY)
What you need:
- A solar shower bag (or even a sturdy black trash bag)
- Rope or a tree branch for hanging
Steps:
- Fill the bag with water and let it sit in the sun for a few hours (black bags heat water faster).
- Hang it from a tree branch or a sturdy hook.
- Use the attached nozzle or poke a small hole in the bottom for water flow.
2. Gravity-Powered Bucket Shower
What you need:
- 5-gallon bucket with lid
- Drill (or something to poke holes)
- Rope or bungee cords
Steps:
- Drill small holes in the bottom of the bucket (or install a spigot).
- Fill with water, put on the lid, and hoist the bucket onto a branch or a tall stand.
- Stand underneath and lift the lid slightly (or open the spigot) to let water out.
3. Pump Sprayer Shower (Pressurized)
What you need:
- 2-gallon garden pump sprayer (clean, unused)
- Optional: attach a shower head or hose sprayer
Steps:
- Fill with warm water.
- Pump the sprayer to build pressure.
- Use the attached nozzle as your shower head—great for rinsing off after hikes.
4. Simple Privacy Upgrade
- Shower tent or tarp walls → for privacy
- Wooden pallet or rubber mat → to avoid muddy feet
- Quick-dry towel → saves space and dries fast
⚠️ Tips & Safety:
- Use biodegradable soap to protect the environment.
- Always shower at least 200 feet away from natural water sources.
- If heating water on a fire or stove, let it cool before pouring into your shower setup (avoid burns).
Try these shower hacks the next time you need to shower in the wilderness! You don’t need to worry about making your own shower when staying at Camp Lakewood Campground, because we have showers!
🪵 Classic Campfire BBQ Chicken
Here’s a simple and classic Campfire BBQ Chicken recipe you can make right over the fire:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind—sweet, smoky, or spicy)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Prep the Fire: Build a good campfire and let it burn down until you have a bed of hot coals. Place a grill grate over the fire.
- Season the Chicken: Rub chicken with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and any extra spices.
- Grill the Chicken: Place chicken on the grate (not directly over high flames). Cook slowly, turning often, for 30–40 minutes, until the juices run clear and the internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Add BBQ Sauce: During the last 10 minutes, brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce. Flip and baste a couple of times so it gets sticky and caramelized without burning.
- Serve & Enjoy: Pair with corn on the cob, campfire potatoes, or coleslaw for the ultimate camp meal! 🍗🔥
👉 Pro Tip: Wrap chicken in foil after saucing if you want it extra juicy and less smoky.
Try this easy entree during your next stay at Camp Lakewood Campground!
How to Signal for Help in the Wild
Essential Tips for Outdoor Emergency Situations
Getting lost or injured in the wilderness can happen to even the most experienced adventurers. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or exploring off-grid, knowing how to effectively signal for help can be life-saving. Here are key techniques you should know before heading into the wild.
1. Use the Rule of Threes
In survival, the number three is universally recognized as a distress signal. This applies across multiple methods:
- Three loud whistles
- Three flashes of a mirror or flashlight
- Three piles of rocks or logs in a triangle
- Three shouts, bangs, or blasts of an air horn
Repeat the signal at regular intervals to increase your chances of being heard or seen.
2. Visual Signals
Visual cues are crucial when rescuers are searching from the air or across long distances.
🔦 Flashlight or Mirror Signals
- Use a flashlight or mirror to reflect sunlight toward aircraft or distant people.
- Flash in groups of three.
- If using a mirror, angle the reflection so it flashes across your target’s location.
🔥 Smoke and Fire
- Build three fires in a triangle or straight line.
- Use green leaves or moss to create thick smoke during the day.
- Keep a dry fire source ready to reignite in case rescuers pass nearby.
🪵 Ground Symbols
- Use logs, rocks, or gear to form large symbols like:
- SOS (international distress signal)
- X (needs emergency assistance)
- → (points toward your location if moving)
- SOS (international distress signal)
- Make them at least 6 feet wide so they’re visible from the sky.
3. Audio Signals
Sound carries well in forests and open land.
- Whistle: Louder and more piercing than a voice. Always carry one.
- Yelling: Use only when someone is nearby—you can lose your voice quickly.
- Air horn: Excellent for wide-open areas or near trails.
4. Emergency Devices
Modern gear can be a game-changer:
- Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
- Sends a signal with your location to emergency services.
- Requires no cell service.
- Sends a signal with your location to emergency services.
- Satellite Messengers (e.g., Garmin inReach, SPOT)
- Allow you to text your coordinates or SOS.
- Useful for remote areas with no reception.
- Allow you to text your coordinates or SOS.
- Cell Phones
- Try sending a quick SOS text or using emergency location sharing if you have signal.
- Climb to higher ground to improve reception.
- Try sending a quick SOS text or using emergency location sharing if you have signal.
5. Clothing & Movement Tips
- Wear bright colors or reflective gear.
- Lay out contrasting gear to catch attention.
- If moving, stay visible—open spaces are better than thick brush.
- Avoid unnecessary movement if you’re injured or rescuers may be nearby.
Final Tips
- Always let someone know your route and expected return time before heading into the wild.
- Pack essentials like a whistle, flashlight, mirror, and fire starter in your emergency kit.
- Remain calm and patient—rescue can take time.
Being prepared is your best defense in a wilderness emergency. Learn these signaling techniques, and you’ll be better equipped to stay safe at any campground, especially at Camp Lakewood Campground!
🏕️ Campfire Stuffed Peppers
Here’s an easy and delicious Campfire Stuffed Peppers recipe — perfect for cooking over the fire or grill while camping! 🌶️🔥
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Aluminum foil
Optional Add-ins: corn, black beans, jalapeños, or salsa
🔥 Instructions:
- Cook the filling: In a skillet or pan over your campfire or camping stove, cook the ground meat with onions until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in tomatoes, cooked rice, spices, and half the cheese. Let it heat through.
- Stuff the peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the hot mixture and top with remaining cheese.
- Wrap each stuffed pepper in aluminum foil.
- Cook over the fire: Place wrapped peppers on hot coals or a grill grate. Cook for 20–30 minutes, rotating occasionally, until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
- Carefully unwrap and enjoy!
Try this recipe the next time you stay at Camp Lakewood Campground!
Fishing While Camping: Tips for Beginners
Fishing and camping are a perfect match—peaceful, relaxing, and a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re hoping to catch dinner or just want to enjoy the experience, fishing while camping can be both fun and rewarding.
🎣 1. Check the Local Regulations
Before casting your line, make sure you understand the rules. Many areas require a fishing license, even for beginners. Look up the local fishing regulations for the state or park you’re visiting. This includes size limits, daily catch limits, and what types of bait or tackle are allowed.
🪝 2. Use Beginner-Friendly Gear
You don’t need fancy equipment to get started. A basic spinning rod and reel combo is easy to use and perfect for beginners. Most sporting goods stores sell starter kits that include the rod, reel, and some tackle.
Also bring:
- Hooks and sinkers
- Bobbers (to help you see bites)
- Bait (live worms, corn, or artificial lures)
🐟 3. Choose the Right Spot
Look for calm areas near shorelines, docks, or where water flows in and out (like creeks or coves). Fish are often more active around sunrise and sunset, so those are great times to try your luck.
🧃 4. Pack the Essentials
In addition to your fishing gear, bring:
- A small cooler for your catch (if keeping fish)
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- A chair or bucket to sit on
- A tackle box or bag to keep things organized
- Pliers or a multi-tool to remove hooks safely
🎯 5. Practice Patience and Learn as You Go
Fishing is as much about enjoying the moment as it is about catching fish. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away. Use the time to relax, enjoy nature, and learn.
Watch what others are doing, ask questions if you meet friendly anglers, and look up simple tutorials online if needed.
🔥 6. If You Catch Something, Know What to Do
If you’re planning to eat what you catch, make sure it’s a legal size and properly cleaned. If not, gently remove the hook and release the fish back into the water.
Tip: Always wet your hands before handling a fish to protect its slime coating, which helps it stay healthy.
🏕 Final Thoughts
Fishing while camping at Camp Lakewood Campground adds an extra layer of fun to your outdoor adventure. With a little preparation and patience, you can create lasting memories—and maybe even catch dinner!
Mason Jar Desserts
Mason jar desserts are fun, portable, and perfect for camping trips, picnics, or cozy nights in! Here are some delicious and visually appealing ideas to inspire your next sweet treat in a jar:
🍓 1. Strawberry Shortcake Jars
Layers: Crumbled pound cake, fresh strawberries, whipped cream
Tip: Let it chill for an hour so the juices soak in!
🍫 2. No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Jars
Layers: Oreo crumb crust, chocolate cheesecake filling, chocolate ganache
Topping: Whipped cream + chocolate shavings
🍌 3. Banana Pudding Jars
Layers: Vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, Nilla wafers, whipped topping
Optional: Drizzle of caramel
🍰 4. Red Velvet Cake Jars
Layers: Red velvet cake chunks, cream cheese frosting
Tip: Add sprinkles or white chocolate chips for a fun texture!
🫐 5. Berry Trifle Jars
Layers: Angel food cake, mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries), vanilla yogurt or pudding
Garnish: Fresh mint leaves
🍏 6. Caramel Apple Pie Jars
Layers: Cinnamon-spiced apples, graham cracker crust, whipped cream
Drizzle: Warm caramel sauce on top
🎃 7. Pumpkin Pie Jars
Layers: Pumpkin pie filling, crushed gingersnaps or graham crackers, whipped cream
Perfect for: Fall parties or Thanksgiving desserts
🍪 8. Cookie Dough Parfait Jars
Layers: Edible cookie dough, chocolate pudding, crushed cookies
Top with: Mini chocolate chips
Try packing these desserts on your next camping trip to Camp Lakewood Campground!
How To Camp With Pets
Camping with pets can be a fun and rewarding experience—if you’re prepared! Here’s a simple guide to help you camp safely and comfortably with your furry friend:
🐾 Before You Go
- Check Pet-Friendly Rules: Make sure your campground allows pets. Some have restrictions on pet size, breed, or number.
- Visit the Vet: Ensure your pet is healthy, vaccinated, and up-to-date on flea/tick prevention.
- Pack Their Essentials:
- Food & water (plus collapsible bowls)
- Leash, harness, and ID tags
- Pet bed or blanket
- Waste bags
- Toys and treats
- Medications
- Food & water (plus collapsible bowls)
🏕️ At the Campground
- Set Up a Pet Zone: Create a shaded, secure area with water and their bed or crate.
- Always Supervise: Never leave your pet alone, especially in a hot tent or car.
- Follow Leash Rules: Use a leash or tie-out to keep them safe and respectful of other campers.
- Be Considerate: Clean up after your pet and limit barking to maintain good campground etiquette.
🐶 Fun and Safety Tips
- Go for Walks or Hikes: Stick to pet-friendly trails and check their paws for burrs or hot spots.
- Watch for Wildlife: Keep your pet close—some animals can pose a danger.
- Night Safety: Use a glow collar or reflective gear for visibility.
- Hydration is Key: Make sure they drink enough, especially on hot days or after hikes.
🧭 Bonus Tips
- First-Time Campers: Try a backyard camp-out or a short overnight trip to ease into the experience.
- Camping in Tents? Introduce your pet to the tent at home so it feels familiar.
- Pet ID: Consider a GPS tag or microchip just in case your pet gets lost.
Camping with pets is all about preparation and awareness. With a little planning, you’ll both have an unforgettable adventure at Camp Lakewood Campground! 🏞️🐕🦺
🥖 Campfire Bread Rolls
Here’s a simple and delicious Campfire Bread Rolls recipe that you can make while camping:
(Stick Bread or Skillet Rolls)
Option 1: Stick Bread Rolls (Fun for Kids & Adults)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup water (or milk)
- 2 tbsp oil or melted butter
- Optional: herbs, shredded cheese, or cinnamon sugar
Instructions:
- Mix Dough: In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add water and oil; mix until you get a soft dough. Knead lightly.
- Divide & Shape: Divide into golf ball-sized portions. Roll each into a rope about 12-18 inches long.
- Wrap on Stick: Wrap the dough rope around the end of a clean, thick stick (not too dry or it might burn).
- Cook Over Fire: Hold over hot coals (not direct flames), rotating frequently until golden brown and cooked through (8–15 minutes).
- Optional: Brush with butter, dip in jam, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, or serve with savory spreads.
Option 2: Skillet Campfire Rolls (For a More Traditional Roll)
Ingredients:
- 1 tube of refrigerated biscuit or crescent dough or make your own simple dough (same as above)
- Butter or oil for greasing
- Cast iron skillet or Dutch oven
- Optional toppings: garlic butter, cheese, herbs
Instructions:
- Prep Skillet: Grease your skillet or Dutch oven well.
- Place Rolls: Arrange dough pieces (store-bought or homemade) with a bit of space between each to allow for rising.
- Cover & Cook: Cover with foil or a lid. Place over hot coals and cook for 10–20 minutes, checking often.
- Rotate & Flip: Rotate the skillet for even cooking. Flip rolls if needed for browning both sides.
- Finish & Serve: Brush with butter, sprinkle herbs or cheese, and serve hot.
🔥 Tips:
- Keep the fire low and steady—too much flame can burn the outside before the inside cooks.
- Make dough ahead at home and store in a cooler.
- These rolls go great with chili, stew, or roasted marshmallows for dessert!
Try these yummy bread rolls 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!
