Camping Heaters for Tents

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Although it is not appealing to everyone who enjoys camping, there is certainly something special about camping in the cooler seasons.  Some see the appeal of the changing leaves or a snow dusted forest, but are too turned off by the cold nights and mornings to really give it a shot.  Luckily, there are affordable camping heaters that are available to keep campers warm through these seasons, and many of them can be used inside a tent.  Say goodbye to piles of blankets and cold nights!

One such example is the Coleman BlackCat PerfecTemp Catalytic Heater, which has Coleman’s InstaStart Technology.  For less than $70, you can have a heater that can be used in a tent and offers flameless heat.  The Coleman runs off of propane, and one single 16.4 ounce can will heat a space for about seven hours. It has varying temperatures, weighs only four pounds and comes with a five year warranty. This is a good heater for the price, though it is important to be safe while using it in a tent.

If you are heating a larger space such as an RV, then something such as the Camco 57341 Olympian RV Wave-6 6000 BTU LP Gas Catalytic Heater may be a better choice to consider. This heater is also 100% electric free, and can be used as portable or wall mounted.  There is also a safety shut-off valve to prevent accidental non-ignition fuel discharge.


If you’re worried about cost and both of those seem too expensive, there is a cheaper alternative.  You can get this heater for less than $60, and it has many of the benefits of the Coleman at a lower cost.  Mr. Heater Little Buddy 3800-BTU Indoor-Safe Propane Heater produces heat at a 45 degree angle and can heat a space of up to 100 square feet.  This seems a bit optimistic, but you can assume your four person tent will be warm enough.  Although it is at a low cost, the downside is that there is only an on or off button, with no temperature settings.  This may lead to a tent that is too warm, which while some argue that’s never a bad thing, may be a problem for many.

As you can see, there are portable heaters for every budget and every camper.  You shouldn’t write off camping in the cooler months because you’re worried about being cold.  There are more than enough heating sources (other than a camp fire) to keep you warm at night and during the day around the site.  You’ll be surprised just how enjoyable cold weather camping can be!

Click Here to View More Camping Heaters

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Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah Georgia Camping Review

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Last week we had a great opportunity to stay at Skidaway Island State Park, located in Savannah Georgia area. If you’re looking for a campground anywhere near Savannah Georgia or Tybee Island area this is definitely one to check out!

This park handles campground reservations a bit differently than most state parks, and reservations are definitely recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. When you make your reservation online, you do not get a specific site number but instead are told to just go and choose a site. This made us a bit nervous as to what types of sites would be available, but turns out there is not a single bad site in the whole campground!

Every site is beautifully shaded, so the hot sun won’t be a worry, especially if you have younger kids and are worried about sunburn. They even have tent pads available at many sites, which makes a great level surface for sleeping and of course helps minimize your chances of flooding if it should rain during your trip. Sites are well spaced apart and large enough that even luxury coach RVs could park in most of them without having any difficulty.

The park has a number of hiking trails and plenty of loops for taking walks around or letting the kids ride their bikes and scooters. All of the playground equipment was well cared for and while suited best for kids ages 4-10, I felt comfortable enough allowing my younger daughters play on it with supervision. Some campsites are even right next to the playground, which is great if your kids are old enough to play by themselves on the playground but you still want to be able to keep an eye on them while you rest and relax at your campsite.

The campground also had wireless internet connection available at the park office, and there were many people on their laptops there.

We did have mosquitoes, but that seems to be a part of camping – they were by no means all that bad but you definitely will want to pack some bug spray if you visit the park. There were a number of squirrels and birds at the park. They do have a swimming pool and interpretive center, however being that it was April when we visited it seemed the pool was not open yet.

Nearby you can visit the city of Savannah – though be warned parking at the visitors center is tight! Be sure you visit the historic district and walk around seeing all the sites and scenes, such as the place where Forest Gump was filmed.

There is no beach at Skidaway Island State Park, but nearby Tybee Island offers many public beaches to visit. Hilton Head Island, located in South Carolina, is only about an hour away north  and worth visiting if you have the extra time to see it. St. Simons Island and the Golden Isles of Georgia are also nearby though sadly we did not have a chance to check them out during our short visit there. Just about any store or convenience is available in the many nearby shopping plazas. There are many things to do and see in the area, such as museums and other activities.

Want more information and to check it out? Visit the Skidaway Island State Park Official Site.

Have you stayed at this state park before? Share your comments, tips, and reviews below!

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Winter Camping Tents for Cold Temperatures and Snow

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If you are serious about camping in the winter, chances are you are probably serious about getting a tent that is up to the challenge. Winter weather can often be unpredictable, and the elements can be harsh, which is why it is important to make sure that you have the right equipment that will keep you safe and warm.

Even if not camping during the winter months, camping at high altitudes or early spring in some Northern areas can often bring some unexpected surprises, and having the right tent makes all the difference!

Why get a tent specifically for winter weather? When you camp in a cheaper tent that is made for basic use, you will find the wind cutting right through the fabric, any heat in the tent simply leaving through the cracks, or, in the worse case, have an issue where ice and snow can enter due to less than adequate build quality. The shape of the tent can also make a difference – your typical dome shaped tent cannot always repel rain and snow the best, which is why these designs are often sleeker.

Here are some of our top picks below:

Trek 2 Person 4 Season Tent

One great example is the Trek 3 quality 7050 Aluminum Pole Design.  This two person tent is made for the elements.  It is designed with vertical walls and an aerodynamic entry way, ensuring maximum space and a design that cuts through the wind when the entrance is facing the direction it blows.  It’s also made with seams that have been weather treated and with extra protection to ensure that the seams never break and that the snow and ice never find their way into the tent.  It’s made for blizzards, and Trek has been making these tents for over 30 years.  It’s a tried and true product, and at $170, the best bet if you only need accommodations for two people. The fly can also be removed, making it suitable to use for summer, fall, and spring camping also. Click Here for Full Specs and Ordering Info.


Eureka K-2 XT 8’11-Foot by 7’8 -Foot Three-Person Four-Season Expedition Tent

If the above tent is too small for your needs, Eureka offers another impressive tent, albeit at a more demanding price.  From $400, you can have a tent built for three people to survive the coldest of treks, be it in your back yard or climbing Everest.  Sleeping three, this tent has 1.9 ounce permeable nylon/40D no-see-um windows, 1.9 ounce Taffeta nylon with 3000mm coating, StormSheild Plus Ripstop Polyester  Taffeta with 1800 mm coating for the flys, and weighs only 11 pounds six ounces. The frame is designed for easy set up in extreme conditions with patented technology, and it has storm lookouts for night time visibility in the most extreme conditions.  Comparing the two, this one seems like it would be more likely to survive the storm of the century.

But is it worth the extra $400?  Well, that is your decision.  It is more than double the price, but if you are seriously considering a trek that will take you to some of the coldest places on earth, or if you think you’re going to be spending a lot of time sleeping outside in the cold seasons, it’s probably worth the investment.  It seems that other reviews agree. Click Here for Full Specs and to Read Reviews

Uber Lite 4 Season Tent with Aluminum Poles

The UberLite 4 Season tent is another good contender, especially if you plan on backpacking because of its light weight of 6 and a half pounds and small compact size. (They also claim it can be set up in 3 minutes, but I’d imagine for most people it would take longer, though still not too difficult) Meauring 84″x64″ and 45″ high, it also gives an adequate amount of space for two campers. Aluminum poles are the reason for its light weight, and with 20 years in designing and making, it’s a great tent to consider, especially priced right around $110. Click Here for Full Specs and Ordering Info

If you are certain that snow and ice is not going to be a factor, but need to stay warmer on cold temperatures, another old standby method is the double tent system – where you put a small tent insider a slightly larger tent. This often creates a buffer of warm air and can help you stay warmer – and sometimes even drier!

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Laurel Hill Campground

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Waterfall at the end of one of the hiking trails at Laurel Hill state Park.

Laurel Hill is a state park located near Somerset, Pennsylvania, about 1 1/2 -2 hours drive west from Pittsburgh. I’ve camped here many times since I’ve been a small girl and it is where my daughter had her first camping trip at 6 weeks old – so definitely a nice quiet place and family friendly! It is unquestionably one of the best state parks in Western Pennsylvania.

Mosquitoes/Wildlife: Most of the times we have been here the mosquitos were minimal. We have seen squirrels, deer, raccoons, and skunks mostly. Lots of birds singing to wake you up in the morning.

Restrooms: Yes, and clean

Swimming: In a lake with small rocky/sandy beach, not within walking distance of the campground if traveling w/small children, must leave campground to access it.

Fishing: Yes, but never caught anything to brag about

Campground: Most sites are shady and close to restrooms, many with electric _ they also offer cabin rental

Playgrounds: The campground has 3 playgrounds & large fields in the camping area and 1 near the beach/lake

Camp store: The campground sells firewood, but not ice. There is a nearby deli and convenience store, and the camp store of a neighboring campground. For anything else, you will need to travel Rt. 30 toward Somerset.

Attractions/What To Do: The campground itself offers plenty of things to do, but there is also much in the area. There are many hiking trails throughout the park. Spend a day at nearby Idlewild Amusement Park, or go to the shops in Ligonier or Somerset. Visit the Flight 93 memorial, or go cave exploring in the Laurel Caverns. Many popular ski resorts are also in this area.

Reservations recommended for holidays and weekends.  All sites are nice and shaded with the exception of sites in the center of the top loop which are in direct sun. If you camp anywhere in the lower section/right side of the campground you will likely be happy with your spot!

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Dutch Oven Campfire & Camping Recipes

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Using a dutch oven while camping is definitely a popular way to cook, so we’ve decided to include some of our favorite Dutch oven camping recipes. There is nothing like something you cook over the campfire!

If you already have a Dutch oven, chances are you absolutely love it. If you do not already have a dutch oven or know what one is, it is basically a cast iron pot that you can safely use above the fire or on your grill. They are very inexpensive, with most of them averaging around $25-$40. Click Here to See Dutch Ovens on Amazon. Considering it is made from cast iron, you can be assured it will last you many years, and may even several generations beyond that, so a very worth while investment for the serious camper!

So now that you know what a dutch oven is, let’s get onto some of our favorite recipe ideas! At the end of this post we also list where you can get even more recipes to take with you camping!

Stews, Chili & Soups

You really can’t go wrong with cooking stew, soup, or chili, especially if you have several hours to allow it to cook and simmer! You’ll likely be the envy of the campground! Add your favorite vegetables, potatoes, and meat and spices and seasonings. We have several recipes that are perfect for dutch oven cooking under our Healthy Low Fat Camping Recipes.

Dutch Oven Pizza

Who doesn’t love pizza while camping? This recipe is very easy to make!

You Will Need:

  • 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (some may prefer crescent rolls or biscuits, use whichever you like better – you can also always make your own dough)
  • Tomato sauce – a little goes a long way, in most cases 1 very small jar/can will do, but if you plan on making pie iron pizzas or another recipe that calls for tomato sauce, you can always save the leftovers for another meal!
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or provolone or a blend)
  • Pepporoni, Bacon or Sausage if desired
  • Mushrooms, Spinach, Green Peppers, Onions, and any other veggies you like

To make the pizza, first you will want to make sure you coat the pan with oil or butter to prevent sticking. Olive oil is likely the most popular choice for this, but using Safflower or Sunflower oil (which can be used when cooking at high temperatures) are actually much healthier for you! (It is complicated, but basically when an oil is cooked above its temperature it can be very bad for you – see this article on Smoke Points and Fats to understand how that is.

Next, spread the dough evenly across the bottom. Then add your sauce, seasonings, and toppings. Cover and bake in fire for about 20-30 minutes until cheese is melted. (Note: If you will be adding meats such as sausage or bacon, you will likely want to precook them first to ensure they will be cooked all the way, as the rest may cook faster before they are done!)

Ooey-Gooey Chocolate Brownie Cake

Can you believe you can make a chocolate cake or brownies while camping? It is easier than you might think!

You will need:

  • 1 Chocolate Cake mix
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup melted/softened butter
  • 1/2 cup applesauce
  • 2 eggs (if no egg, add more butter/applesauce if too dry to mix)
  • Chocolate syrup, powdered sugar and/or Whipped cream for topping

Line dutch oven with foil & spray with non cook cooking spray. Mix eggs, butter, cake mix, applesauce, and choc. chips together in pan. Bake in fire about 60-90 minutes.

Want Even More Recipes?

Having a good cookbook with you while camping is a good idea to have. With your cookbook, you know recipes are tried and true – You also will always have inspiration on what to cook, no matter what ingredients you might have on hand. It is a worthwhile investment that will keep you cooking delicious meals for years to come! Below are some of the cookbooks we recommend:

[amazon_carousel widget_type="SearchAndAdd" width="500" height="200" title="" market_place="US" shuffle_products="False" show_border="False" keywords="dutch oven recipes" browse_node="" search_index="Books" /]

 

Do you have any dutch oven camping recipes you’d like to share? We’d love to hear about them in the comments below!

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RV Camping Checklist

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If you plan on camping in a trailer, motorhome, or pop up, then this RV camping checklist may just be what you need to make sure you don’t leave home without anything you need.

Perhapas one of the nicest aspects about RV camping is it often gives you additional room for packing items as well as many luxuries you may not have when camping in a tent. Not all of these items are absolute necessities, but can certainly help make your trip more comfortable.

Many people consider their RV as their “home away from home” so one way to make sure you always have what you need is to make sure you bring anything you might use on a regular basis with you. For things such as kitchen and household supplies, having items dedicated for trailer or RV use can help reduce having to pack it all the time. Oncc you find a place to store it, you will always have it with you each time you go camping!

This checklist only contains a list of items to bring that are specific for RV campers and trailers – for lists for supplies to bring for clothing, cooking, etc. then make sure you also check out our Printable Camping Checklist.

RV Camping Checklist

General Supplies
Door mat
Entry steps
Stool or portable step ladder
Light bulbs for interior and exterior
Batteries
Wooden Shims for Leveling & Trailer Jacks
Awning or Canopy
Toilet Paper
Paper Towels
Electrical hookups
Sewer hookups
Drinking water hose
Back-flush hose
Toilet Chemicals
Replacement water filter
Towing Equipment
Bungee Cords
Clamps
Hauling Straps and Equipment

Items to Pack
Hangers
Laundry Basket
Towel Rack
Hand Soap
Toilet Cleaner
Toilet Brush
Glass Cleaner
Dish Towels
Dish soap
Pot scrubbing pads
Oven mitts
Spatula/pancake turner
Pots and pans
Plates
Bowls
Silverware
Cups and mugs
Pillows
Sheets and blankets
Drinking Water
Place mats
Baking pans/cookie sheets
Dish Drying rack
Trash cans
Trash bags

Vehicle Items
Jumper Cables
Fix a Flat & Tire Patching Kits
Spare Tire
Jack
Emergency/Road Hazard Flares
Fuses
License and Registration
Owners Manual

Tools
Pliers
Hammer
Screwdrivers
Wrench
Alan Wrench
Eletrical Tape
WD-40
Duct Tape
Hex Keys
Spare Keys
Small Saw
Spare Hoses & Hose Clamps
Wheel Lug Wrench
Crowbar
Teflon Tape
Solder & Soldering Iron
Windshield Washer Fluid
Motor Oil
Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid

Don’t forget to check out our Printable Camping Checklist and of course if there is anything we may have missed, please do add your suggestions for what to include in our RV camping checklist below!

The publishers of TotalCamper.com may receive compensation if you purchase items we review on our website. We are committed to providing unbiased reviews and featuring only high quality products we would feature even if we did not get paid for them. Read more about our Advertising Policies Here.

Tent Camping Checklist

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If you are going to be tenting, then this tent camping checklist will be invaluable to you! While our Printable Camping Supplies List will cover the basics for things like making sure you have all your clothes packed and all your emergency and cooking gear, there are a few things that are specific to camping in a tent that are an absolute must have in my opinion!

Here are some of the things necessary when camping in a tent:

A Tent: Obviously, you need to have your tent. But, still, you never know when you might think you packed it, only to have absent mindedly forgotten – so make sure you have it! Don’t forget to check your tent before going camping to make sure it is in good condition and has all of its poles.

Tent Stakes: Even if you have tent stakes that came with your tent, it’s always a good idea to have some extras. I personally prefer metal stakes, as they do not break when the plastic ones almost certainly always will.

Rope: Having rope is handy if one of your tent flap ropes break while camping – it’s also useful for hanging wet clothes.

Mats or Air Mattresses: Air mattresses, in my opinion, are quite possibly the worst invention for camping ever made. There is nothing worse than taking the time to inflate it, only for it to deflate so you wake up the next morning with a sore back! Does this mean you have to sleep on the hard cold ground? Of course not! I am a HUGE fan of exercise mats, as they offer just the right amount of padding. If you are tight on space (such as hiking in the woods) get a Roll Up Exercise Mat. If you can afford the extra room it takes, I absolutely love the nice thick and cushioned ones such as the Everlast 2′x6′ Folding Mat or the Harbinger Tri-Fold Mat. They can be hard to find in stores (maybe a sporting goods store will have them, but do not even bother at most of the big box retailers) so I would order it online if you do not have one or can’t find a used one. My husband and I put two of these side by side – and I swear I sleep better on it than I do in my own bed!

Blankets and Sleeping Bags: A blanket and a sleeping bag are an absolute must, especially if camping on nights will the air will get cold.

A Tarp: You never know what the weather will be, and when it is raining or wet, you never want to be without a tarp (or two or three!).

Extension Cord, Lights, Portable Fan: Just because you will be staying in a tent does it mean you have to camp without electricity! (though you can if you want to of course!) Most tents now even have a flap for it! Make sure you have a long extension cord, and of course whatever you may want to plug-in, such as chargers and adapters for phone, flashlight or camera, a portable lamp or light, fan, radio, etc. etc.

Tent Repair Kit: Imagine driving in the car (or hiking) for hours to finally get to your campsite and it’s getting dark fast. As you try to fumble around to get your tent up, one of your poles snaps in half and tears a hole in the canvas. The nearest store is 45 minutes away, and closes in 25 minutes. Don’t let this happen to you! (It will at some time or another!) Having a Tent Repair Kit is essential just in case – and they don’t usually take up much space. I recommend getting a pole repair kit and a canvas kit, there are also other things such as tape, thread, etc. as well that can prove useful.

Rain Gear: If you’ve ever gone camping in the rain in a tent, it doesn’t just rain – it pours! Always make sure you have waterproof jackets, warm clothing, and any other rain gear. Getting a tent canopy can help also when it is raining or provides shade even when its not.

Is there anything else we may have missed for tent camping? Don’t forget to get our Printable Camping Checklist and feel free to add anything else to our list in the comments below!

The publishers of TotalCamper.com may receive compensation if you purchase items we review on our website. We are committed to providing unbiased reviews and featuring only high quality products we would feature even if we did not get paid for them. Read more about our Advertising Policies Here.

Camping Sex: Romantic Camping Ideas & Tips

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Do you want to be closer to your partner? Then a romantic camping getaway might just be what the doctor ordered! If the post title “Camping Sex” worries you – we can assure you that we will keep this G rated, as Total Camper is a family friendly website – but you will definitely get some ideas for ways to make your next camping adventure an unforgettable one!

Note: If you would like the non G-rated and detailed version on how to have an amazing experience camping with your partner, you may want to order a copy of the discreet and easy to download guide Romantic Camping: How to Light a Fire In Your Tent – I think the title speaks for itself!

There are many elements in camping that can be quite romantic – the nature, the stars in the sky, beautiful sunsets, hiking alone together in the woods, waterfalls, chirping birds – it is a recipe for success! Many couples who have found it difficult to conceive are often quite excited and surprised when they return from a camping trip to learn their next camping adventure will be as a family!

But, there are also some minor drawbacks to camping that can be somewhat unromantic – being swarmed by mosquitoes for example is never very fun! So, having a few tips can definitely help ensure the time will be an enjoyable one!

Tip #1: Be Prepared: You can never be too prepared when you go camping, so don’t forget to bring necessary items such as big spray, blankets or towels to lay on, any birth control medications or other supplies if needed. In addition to those things, you’ll also want to make sure you have all of the other items listen in our Free Camping Supply Checklist, as the better prepared you are, the more happier you will be. It’s tough being romantic if you’re both miserable because you forgot to pack something!

Tip #2: Use the Time to Grow Closer Together: Without the distractions of computers, TV, or cell phone reception, this is when you and your partner can really talk to each other and get to know one another well. You can play romantic games together, or I am also a big fan of Michael Webb’s ebook “1000 Questions for Couples“. It is a fantastic way to really get to know each other, especially while on road trips or sitting around the campfire. Obviously you won’t get through the 1000 questions all at once, but it certainly sparks the conversation! Whether you just started dating or have been married for years, it definitely has many questions you may never have thought to ask! (Though if you are married, you will likely be able to answer some of them already!)

Tip #3: Do Romantic Things: Hold hands when you stroll through the woods or even down the path to the camp store. Snuggle on a blanket next to the fire instead of sitting in separate chairs. These are things anyone can do – even if you are married with three kids who never leave you alone! Something we do that helps not only keep our area nicely lit at night so our kids do not trip in the dark but also adds a nice ambience around the campsite is string Christmas lights.

Tip #4: Use Care: There are many things to worry about while camping – dirt, bugs, wildlife are just a few of these but there are many others. For example, don’t go far off a hiking trail and get lost. Don’t snuggle in a patch of poison ivy or poison oak. Don’t leave trash at your campsite or in the woods. Be respectful of your neighbors at the campground and observe quite hours. If you do these things you can ensure a safe and enjoyable time!

Want more tips for planning the perfect romantic camping trip, finding the best spots and getaways or other tips related to camping sex? Then you really need the complete guide (and one of the only of its type!)

Click Here for Romantic Camping: How to Light a Fire In Your Tent

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Breakfast Camping Recipes & Ideas

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Cooking breakfast while camping can be sometimes a challenge, so we’ve put together all of our favorite breakfast camping recipes in one spot! While eggs, bacon, sausage, and biscuits are always a classic standby, you might just be surprised by everything we have on our list!

Good Old Cereal

You really can’t go wrong with cereal, whether dry or with milk. It’s easy to transport and requires no cooking!

Muffins, Bagels, Donuts and Other Baked Goods

Another easy breakfast idea is to serve bagels, muffins, cinnamon rolls, danishes, or other baked goods. You can make them from scratch before your trip, or pick them up at pretty much just about any grocery store or convenience store.

Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits

Mix yogurt (organic if possible!) and your favorite fresh or thawed out frozen fruit and top with granola – very easy to make and clean up!

Scrambled Eggs & Bacon or Sausage

This is super easy to make – cook your eggs, bacon or sausage in a cast iron pan. If you’d like, you can also make home fries. There really is no recipe or skill involved here – if you can cook eggs or bacon or sausage at home, you can cook it while camping the same way!

Pie Iron Breakfast Sandwiches

Another easy recipe for the pie iron :)

Heat pie iron, melt some butter and add bread & fillings, toast over fire.

Filling ideas: Eggs, Bacon and Tomato, Apple Pie Filling, Peanut Butter & Jelly, Ham & Cheese, Sausage

Waffles – Yes, Really, Waffles!

Click Image to Purchase at Amazon

Would you believe you can make waffles while camping? This is definitely possible using the Coleman Waffle Iron, which could certainly be used for a number of other recipes and treats as well!

You use a waffle iron much like a regular pie iron, except you will be pouring waffle/pancake batter into it. We suggest using pre-made pancake mixes and adding your own egg and milk, or of course you can always mix up your own flour mixture before you go on the trip.

Biscuit Sandwiches

You’ll need a package of biscuits (pre-cooked) and a some slices of ham, cheese, and spinach or leaf lettuce. Assemble your sandwiches, and warm over the fire or grill if desired.If time permits, scramble up some eggs to add to the sandwiches – very yummy!

And if you’d like to make any of these recipes even more tastier and healthy, all you have to do is add some spinach!

What are some of your favorite breakfast camping recipes and ideas? We’d love to hear about them in the comments section below!

 

The publishers of TotalCamper.com may receive compensation if you purchase items we review on our website. We are committed to providing unbiased reviews and featuring only high quality products we would feature even if we did not get paid for them. Read more about our Advertising Policies Here.

Healthy Low Fat Camping Recipes

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We love camping, and we also love eating healthy, so we decided to make a list of our favorite and healthiest camping foods and snacks for you to serve. Some of these are low-fat camp recipes, but fat is not always a bad thing if you have the right kinds! The healthiest thing you can do when camping? Choose all natural and organic foods that aren’t filled with chemicals and preservatives!

Simple Veggies & Fruit

You really can’t go wrong with fruit and vegetables, though the one drawback is it does not have a very long shelf life, so you will likely need to eat it within a day or two, especially if the weather is very warm and you have no way for refrigerating it. Carrots and celery, broccolli and cauliflower, green and red peppers all make for great veggies to snack and crunch on – you can even bring dip if you have a way to refrigerate it. Good camping fruits are cantaloupe, apples, pears, oranges, strawberries, blueberries, bananas, and many others. If you’d like, pack along some strawberry yogurt or peanut butter for dipping the fruit into. (Celery sticks, apples, and banana all go great with peanut butter!)

Grilled Meat/Fish, Veggies, and Potatoes

If you don’t mind cooking, you can make many healthy grilled dishes. Here’s a simple formula you just can’t go wrong with:

Salmon or other fish Skinless Chicken Breast, Ground Turkey Patties, Lean or Grassfed Hamburger Patties or Grassfed Steak

Red or Green Peppers & Onion
Sliced Potatoes or Instant Brown Rice
Salt/Pepper/Seasonings to Taste

Combine all ingredients in foil and grill until meat/fish reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Hearty Chili

1 Can Organic Red, Chili, or Kidney Beans
1 pound of lean organic ground turkey or beef
1 Pepper, chopped
1 8 oz can of corn
1/2 an onion chopped
1 8 oz can of diced tomatoes
Chili seasoning to taste (you can use pre-made packets or mix together cumin, garlic powder, chili powder and cayenne pepper until you get the flavor right for you – just go easy on the cayenne pepper if you do not like it spicy!)

Combine all ingredients and cook over fire in a cast iron skillet or on the grill or camp stove – it’s done when the meat is browned and has reached a temperature of 165 degrees.

Beef & Chicken Kabobs
1-2 pounds of beef or chicken (depends on how big of crowd you are serving!)
1 red pepper and 1 green pepper
1 onion
1 zuchinni
Salt, Pepper, and seasonings to taste

Marinate the chicken or beef in salt and seasonings for 30 minutes or longer prior to cooking. Slice everything into 1 inch pieces and skew onto skewers. (Make sure if cooking over a fire and using wood skewers that you soak the skewers in water for at least 10-15 minutes first so they don’t burn!) Alternate pieces of meat with the veggies, grill until meat reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Vegetable Stew

Everyone knows that campers need their vegetables, and this easy stew can be made in no time!

You Will Need:
1 cup carrots
1 cup of corn (again, fresh is always better!)
1 packet of organic beef gravy/beef stew seasoning or mix up your own before going camping
1 pound of beef
1 cup green beans
2-3 medium sized potatoes, cut into pieces
1 diced tomato

(You can substitute organic canned veggies, but fresh always tastes better!)

Combine all ingredients in a cast iron skillet and simmer for 3-4 hours until meat is cooked and vegetables are tender.

Do you have any healthy low fat camping recipes you’d like to share? We’d love to hear them in the comments section below!

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