Heres Some Camping Tips & Tricks at Your Fingertips
Our Knoxville Campground Blog is the information you need to make your next camping trip in Tennessee even more enjoyable. From RV and camping tips and tricks, to amazing campfire recipes, to advice on planning your next trip in Knoxville, TN... the information below is here to help you. And please, feel free to comment and share your experiences, knowledge and favorite recipes. At Knoxville Campground, we are a family and all here to help each other enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest!
Campfire Shepherd’s Pie
Campfire Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for cooking over a fire. Here’s a simple recipe you can make in a cast-iron skillet or foil packet while camping.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or beef gravy)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (instant or prepared ahead of time)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fire – Get your campfire going and let it burn down to hot coals for even cooking.
- Cook the Meat – In a cast-iron skillet over the fire (or on a camp stove), cook the ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add Veggies & Sauce – Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and the cream of mushroom soup (or beef gravy). Mix well and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Top with Mashed Potatoes – Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
- Add Cheese (Optional) – Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for extra flavor.
- Cook Over the Fire – Cover with foil and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Foil Pack Variation:
- Instead of a skillet, you can layer the ingredients in heavy-duty foil packets. Wrap tightly and cook on campfire coals for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Try this delicious and easy recipe next time you stay at Knoxville Campground!
Animals to Watch Out for During the Winter Season
During the winter season at Knoxville Campground in Sullivan, Tennessee, you might encounter the following animals:
Mammals
- White-tailed Deer – Active year-round, often foraging for food in open areas.
- Coyotes – More visible in winter as they scavenge for food.
- Red and Gray Foxes – Known to be more active at dawn and dusk.
- Raccoons – May be seen scavenging near campsites.
- Bobcats – Elusive but more noticeable in winter due to their tracks in the snow.
- Black Bears – Generally less active but may emerge from dens on warmer winter days.
Birds
- Bald Eagles – Often seen near water bodies, hunting for fish.
- Red-tailed Hawks – Frequently spotted soaring over open fields.
- Great Horned Owls – Active during the night and often heard hooting.
- Dark-eyed Juncos – Small winter birds that flock near wooded areas.
- Northern Cardinals – Their bright red feathers stand out in winter landscapes.
Reptiles & Amphibians
- Most reptiles, such as snakes and turtles, will be inactive or in brumation (a hibernation-like state).
Things to Watch Out For:
- Slippery Trails & Wildlife Tracks – Be cautious of icy paths and follow animal tracks with awareness.
- Aggressive Wildlife – Coyotes and bobcats can be more daring in winter due to food scarcity.
- Nocturnal Predators – Owls and foxes are more active at night, so use caution when walking after dark.
Winter Wildlife Safety Tips
- Keep Your Distance – Never approach or feed wildlife.
- Predators – Make noise to deter coyotes, bobcats, and bears.
- Stay Safe – Watch for tracks and be cautious on icy trails.
- Campsite Safety – Store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
- Dress Warm – Wear layers and bright colors for visibility.
- Travel in Groups – Avoid solo hikes and make noise.
Watch out for these animals during the winter season at Knoxville Campground!
Trail Mix Energy Balls
Here’s a simple Trail Mix Energy Balls recipe—perfect for a quick snack, hiking fuel, or a lunchbox treat!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- ⅓ cup honey (or maple syrup)
- ½ cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews, etc.), chopped
- ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots, etc.)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (or cacao nibs)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional for extra nutrition)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill the Mixture: Place the bowl in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes to make the mixture easier to handle.
- Form Balls: Once chilled, use your hands or a small scoop to roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.
- Store & Enjoy: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Tips:
- Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make them nut-free.
- Add coconut flakes or protein powder for extra flavor and energy.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more nut butter or honey.
Try bringing these to stay energized for your next hike at Knoxville Campground!
Romantic Things To Do While Camping During Valentine’s Day!
Here are some romantic winter camping getaway ideas, including activities and cozy extras to make your trip unforgettable.
🔥 Extra Cozy Accommodations
- Glamping in a Heated Tent or Dome – Stay in a luxury tent or a transparent dome to watch the snowfall while staying warm.
- Cabin with a Fireplace – Rent a rustic cabin with a wood-burning fireplace for the ultimate cozy retreat.
- RV Winter Escape – Travel in a heated RV to scenic winter destinations.
❄️ Outdoor Winter Adventures for Couples
- Snowshoeing Together – Explore snowy trails while holding hands.
- Dog Sledding – Take a romantic ride through the snow-covered forest.
- Skiing or Snowboarding – Hit the slopes together and warm up afterward with hot cocoa.
- Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride – Snuggle up under a warm blanket while riding through a winter wonderland.
- Ice Skating on a Frozen Lake – Skate hand-in-hand under twinkling lights.
- Winter Hiking to a Frozen Waterfall – Find a secluded, icy waterfall for a picture-perfect moment.
- Building a Snow Couple – Have fun building snow figures and decorating them with scarves and hats.
🔥 Warm & Romantic Activities
- Campfire Date Night – Toast marshmallows, sip warm drinks, and enjoy deep conversations.
- Winter Picnic with a Heated Blanket – Pack warm soup, bread, and a thermos of hot chocolate.
- Stargazing & Wishing on Shooting Stars – Bring a telescope or lay on a cozy blanket together.
- Reading Love Letters by Candlelight – Surprise your partner with a heartfelt note.
- DIY Couples Spa Night – Use hot towels, essential oils, and massage each other by the fire.
- Cooking a Romantic Meal Together – Make a cozy dish like fondue or gourmet campfire stew.
- Telling Love Stories & Sharing Dreams – Reflect on your relationship and plan future adventures.
🍷 Warm & Cozy Drinks to Try
- Mulled Wine – Red wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus.
- Spiked Apple Cider – Warm apple cider with a touch of rum or bourbon.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate – A festive twist on a classic winter favorite.
- Irish Coffee – Coffee with whiskey and whipped cream for extra warmth.
Try any of these romantic winter activities this Valentine’s Day at Knoxville Campground!
S’mores Sushi Rolls
These little s’mores treats are the perfect grab-and-go dessert! Easy to make and with only a few ingredients, try this for your next fireside treat!
Ingredients
For the “Rice”:
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cups crispy rice cereal
For the Filling:
- Chocolate bars or chocolate chips
- Mini marshmallows (or marshmallow fluff)
- Crushed graham crackers
For Assembly and Topping:
- Melted chocolate (optional, for drizzling)
- Graham cracker crumbs (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Make the “Rice” Base:
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (about 30 seconds).
- Add the mini marshmallows to the butter and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in the crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
2. Shape the “Rice” Base:
- Place a large sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap on a flat surface.
- Spread the rice mixture evenly onto the parchment to form a rectangular layer, about ¼ inch thick. Use a rolling pin or your hands (lightly greased) for evenness.
3. Add the Filling:
- Lay pieces of chocolate and sprinkle crushed graham crackers across the middle of the rectangle.
- Add a line of mini marshmallows (or marshmallow fluff) over the chocolate.
4. Roll It Up:
- Starting from one of the long sides, use the parchment paper to gently roll the rectangle into a tight log. Press firmly as you roll to seal the layers together.
- Wrap the log in the parchment paper and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to set.
5. Slice and Serve:
- Unwrap the chilled roll and cut it into 1-inch slices using a sharp knife.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the top for a finishing touch.
Tips:
- Use a serrated knife to avoid squishing the rolls while cutting.
- Get creative! Add peanut butter or caramel to the filling for extra flavor.
- Use a campfire for melting purposes to make at the campground instead!
Enjoy your S’mores Sushi Rolls—perfect for a sweet treat at Knoxville Campground! 🍫🍣
Things you can do in the snow while camping!
Camping in the winter can be a magical experience, offering unique opportunities for adventure and fun. Here are some activities to enjoy while camping in the snow:
1. Build a Snow Shelter
- Try constructing a quinzee (snow cave) or an igloo.
- It’s not just practical for survival skills but also a fun group activity.
2. Snowshoeing
- Explore winter trails with snowshoes to experience nature in winter.
- Bonus: It’s a great workout!
3. Sledding
- Bring a sled or use improvised gear (like a tarp) to slide down nearby hills.
4. Winter Hiking
- Bundle up and hit the trails. Snow-covered landscapes are breathtaking, and you’ll often have them all to yourself.
5. Stargazing
- Winter skies are clearer, making it an ideal time for stargazing. Bring a telescope or just enjoy the stars by the campfire.
6. Ice Fishing
- If you’re near a frozen lake, try your hand at ice fishing. Ensure the ice is thick enough and bring proper gear.
7. Animal Tracking
- Look for animal tracks in the snow and try to identify them. It’s a fun way to learn about wildlife in the area.
8. Snow Art and Sculptures
- Get creative by building snow sculptures, snowmen, or even snow angels.
9. Snowball Fights and Games
- Classic snowball fights, target practice, or other snow-based games can bring lots of laughs.
10. Campfire Cooking
- Try winter-friendly recipes like hot cocoa, soups, or foil-packet meals. The warmth of a campfire is especially cozy in the winter.
11. Cross-Country Skiing
- If you’re in an area with flat or rolling terrain, cross-country skiing is a serene way to explore.
12. Winter Photography
- Capture the beauty of white-dusted trees, frost patterns, and your winter adventures.
13. Warm-Up Challenges
- Create fun challenges to keep warm, like jumping jacks, running in place, or a group dance-off.
14. Make Maple Syrup Snow Candy
- Pour hot maple syrup over clean snow to make a chewy treat—simple and fun!
15. Meditation and Mindfulness
- Embrace the quiet stillness of the white wilderness for some peaceful reflection or meditation.
Safety Tips for Winter Camping Activities:
- Wear appropriate clothing in layers to stay warm and dry.
- Stay hydrated and fueled with warm drinks and high-energy foods.
- Always let someone know your location and plans.
- Check the weather forecast and be aware of avalanche risks if in mountainous areas.
Try these activities next time you stay at Knoxville Campground during the winter!
Campfire Coffee Recipe
Campfire coffee is a rustic and simple way to enjoy a cup of coffee while outdoors. Here’s a straightforward recipe:
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 4 tablespoons coarsely ground coffee (adjust for desired strength)
- Optional: sugar, cream, or milk
Equipment:
- A camping kettle, pot, or percolator
- A stirring stick or spoon
- A heat source (campfire or portable stove)
Instructions:
- Heat the Water:
- Fill your kettle or pot with 2 cups of water.
- Place it over your campfire or portable stove and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Add Coffee Grounds:
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for about 30 seconds to a minute.
- Add the coffee grounds to the hot water and stir to combine.
- Let it Steep:
- Cover the pot and let the coffee steep for about 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you like it.
- Settle the Grounds:
- After steeping, gently tap the pot or swirl it in a circular motion to help the grounds settle to the bottom.
- Alternatively, pour a splash of cold water into the pot to speed up the settling process.
- Pour and Serve:
- Carefully pour the coffee into your mugs, avoiding the grounds at the bottom.
- Add sugar, cream, or milk as desired, and enjoy!
Pro Tips:
- If you prefer a cleaner cup, use a coffee sock or cheesecloth to filter the grounds before serving.
- For a touch of flavor, toss in a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder with the coffee grounds.
- Keep your campfire at a steady heat for consistent brewing.
Enjoy the warm, rich aroma of fresh coffee under the open sky at Knoxville Campground! 🌄☕
Hot Cocoa Pancakes Recipe
Here’s a recipe for hot cocoa pancakes—perfectly fluffy and chocolaty, with the warmth of a cozy hot cocoa. These pancakes are ideal for a chilly morning treat!
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Mix-Ins:
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolaty goodness)
- Mini marshmallows (optional, for hot cocoa style)
For Topping (Optional)
- Whipped cream or marshmallow fluff
- Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate
- Crushed candy canes or shaved chocolate for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Mix the Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through.
- If adding mini marshmallows, sprinkle a few on each pancake just before flipping.
- Serve:
- Stack the pancakes on a plate and top with whipped cream or marshmallow fluff, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and any other desired toppings like crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings.
These hot cocoa pancakes are delicious on their own, or paired with a warm mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy breakfast at Knoxville Campground!
Rock Painting & Nature Painting
Rock painting and nature painting are both enjoyable and creative activities that can bring you closer to the beauty of the natural world. Here are some ideas and tips for each type of painting project:
Rock Painting
Materials Needed:
- Smooth, flat rocks (washed and dried)
- Acrylic paints
- Paintbrushes of various sizes
- Paint markers (optional)
- Sealant (clear acrylic spray or brush-on sealant)
- Water cup (for rinsing brushes)
- Palette (or a disposable plate)
- Paper towels or cloth
Steps:
- Prepare Your Rocks: Choose smooth, flat rocks for an easy painting surface. Wash and dry the rocks thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Plan Your Design: Sketch your design on paper first if needed. You can paint animals, mandalas, inspirational words, abstract patterns, or nature scenes.
- Base Coat: Apply a base coat of paint if you want a solid background color. Let it dry completely before adding more details.
- Paint Your Design: Use fine brushes and paint markers to add details to your rock. Acrylic paints work well because they are vibrant and dry quickly.
- Dry and Seal: Let your painted rocks dry completely. Once dry, apply a clear acrylic spray or brush-on sealant to protect the paint and make your design last longer.
- Display or Share: Use your painted rocks to decorate your garden, give them as gifts, or leave them in public places for others to find and enjoy.
Ideas:
- Inspirational Messages: Paint words or phrases like “Hope,” “Love,” or “Be Kind.”
- Nature Themes: Paint flowers, trees, animals, or insects.
- Patterns and Mandalas: Create intricate patterns or mandalas for a mesmerizing effect.
- Seasonal Designs: Paint rocks for different seasons or holidays.
Nature Painting
Materials Needed:
- Canvas or heavy paper
- Acrylic, watercolor, or oil paints
- Paintbrushes of various sizes
- A palette (or a disposable plate)
- Easel (optional)
- Water cup (for rinsing brushes)
- Paper towels or cloth
- Pencil (for sketching)
Steps:
- Choose a Subject: Find a natural subject that inspires you, such as a landscape, flowers, trees, or animals. You can paint en plein air (outdoors) or use a reference photo.
- Sketch Your Design: Lightly sketch your subject on the canvas or paper with a pencil to guide your painting.
- Prepare Your Colors: Mix your paints on the palette to get the desired colors. Nature painting often involves a variety of greens, browns, blues, and other natural colors.
- Start Painting: Begin with the background and larger areas, then gradually work towards the smaller details. Use different brush sizes to achieve various effects.
- Layer and Blend: Use layering and blending techniques to create depth and texture. For example, in watercolor painting, use wet-on-wet for soft edges and wet-on-dry for more defined lines.
- Final Touches: Add final details and highlights to make your painting come alive. Let your painting dry completely if using acrylic or oil paints.
- Display Your Art: Frame your finished painting or hang it as is. Share it with friends and family or keep it as a personal memento of your connection with nature.
Ideas:
- Landscapes: Paint scenes of mountains, forests, beaches, or meadows.
- Floral Arrangements: Focus on a single flower or a bouquet.
- Wildlife: Capture the beauty of birds, deer, fish, or other animals in their natural habitats.
- Abstract Nature: Use colors and shapes to create an abstract interpretation of natural elements.
Both rock painting and nature painting are wonderful ways to express creativity and enjoy the outdoors. Choose the activity that resonates with you, gather your materials, and let your imagination guide you! Try rock or nature painting while at Knoxville Campground!
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for camping. Here’s a simple recipe you can prepare over a campfire or camping stove:
Ingredients:
- For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth (you can use bouillon cubes if packing light)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup egg noodles or other pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Cooking Area:
- Set up your campfire or camping stove. For campfire cooking, ensure you have a stable setup with a grate or a heat-resistant pot stand.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the carrots, celery, and potato (if using), and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Chicken:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded or diced chicken.
- Stir in the thyme, parsley, bay leaf (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Noodles:
- Stir in the egg noodles or pasta and continue to simmer until the noodles are cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Add Optional Vegetables:
- If you’re using frozen peas or corn, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Camping:
- Pre-chop Vegetables: Chop the vegetables and prepare the chicken ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers or zip-lock bags to make cooking easier at the campsite.
- Use a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven or heavy-duty pot works well for cooking soup over a campfire.
- Pack Light: If you’re packing light, consider using canned chicken and pre-cooked noodles to simplify the preparation.
This chicken noodle soup is easy to make and perfect for warming up after a day of camping at Knoxville 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!
