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!
Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry (Easy Campfire-Friendly Meal)
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal to make while camping, this Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry is a great go-to. It comes together fast, uses simple ingredients, and works perfectly on a camp stove, griddle, or even over a campfire skillet.
Why it works for camping
This recipe is ideal for the outdoors because it’s:
- Quick to cook (about 15–20 minutes)
- Flexible with ingredients
- Packed with protein and veggies
- Easy cleanup with just one pan
Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thighs, sliced thin
- Bell peppers (any colors)
- Broccoli florets
- Onion, sliced
- Carrots, sliced thin
- Olive oil or cooking oil
- Soy sauce (or stir fry sauce of choice)
- Garlic (fresh or powder)
- Salt and pepper
How to make it
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat with a little oil.
- Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Add veggies to the pan and sauté until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Add chicken back in and mix everything together.
- Pour in soy sauce or your favorite stir fry sauce and toss until coated.
- Serve hot—eat as-is or over rice if you pre-cooked some at home.
Camp tip
Pre-cut your veggies and chicken at home and store them in separate containers or bags in your cooler. This saves time and makes cooking at the campsite way easier.
Try this recipe the next time you stay at Knoxville Campground!
A Day in the Life of a Typical Camper 🌲☀️
Ever wondered what a perfect day at the campground looks like? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned camper, each day brings a mix of relaxation, adventure, and memory-making. Here’s what a typical day might look like when you stay with us:
🌅 Morning: Rise & Refresh
The day starts with the peaceful sounds of nature—birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the fresh morning air. Campers ease into the day with a hot cup of coffee by the fire or a quiet walk around the campground.
For early risers, it’s the perfect time to explore, go fishing, or take in a beautiful sunrise before the day gets busy.
🍳 Mid-Morning: Breakfast & Exploring
Breakfast at the campsite is always a favorite—whether it’s pancakes on a griddle, a quick bite from the store, or something fresh off the fire.
After fueling up, it’s time to explore! Families might head to the playground, jump pad, or trails, while others enjoy biking through the campground or relaxing at their site.
☀️ Afternoon: Fun in Full Swing
By afternoon, the campground is buzzing with activity. Campers spend their time:
• Swimming or lounging by the pool
• Playing games with family and friends
• Joining in on planned activities or events
• Relaxing under the shade with a good book
It’s all about enjoying the outdoors at your own pace.
🍕 Evening: Food, Friends & Firelight
As the sun starts to set, everyone winds down and gathers for dinner. Some cook over the fire, while others grab an easy meal (because let’s be honest—pizza just hits different at the campground 🍕).
This is when the best memories are made—sharing stories, laughing with neighbors, and enjoying the laid-back campground atmosphere.
🔥 Night: Campfires & Starry Skies
The day ends the classic way—with a campfire. Roasting marshmallows, making s’mores, and soaking in the quiet of the night sky.
With no city lights, the stars shine a little brighter—and the moments feel a little more special.
Ready to experience it for yourself?
Your perfect campground day is waiting—pack your bags, bring your crew, and come make some memories with us at Knoxville Campground! 🌲✨
🥩 Philly Cheesesteak Foil Packets
Philly Cheesesteak Foil Packets are PERFECT for camping, grilling, or an easy backyard dinner 🔥🍴
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin works best)
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms (optional)
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Hoagie rolls (for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat grill or campfire to medium heat.
- Tear 4 large pieces of foil.
- Evenly divide steak, peppers, onions, and mushrooms onto each foil sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Fold foil into sealed packets.
- Cook on grill or over the fire for about 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Carefully open packets and place a slice of provolone on top. Close for 1–2 minutes to melt.
- Serve straight from the foil or load into hoagie rolls.
🔥 Campground Tip:
Place packets on hot coals instead of direct flames for even cooking!
Try this recipe the next time you stay at Knoxville Campground!
Make Your Own Mosquito Repellent 🦟🌿
Nothing ruins a relaxing evening around the campfire faster than mosquitoes. While store-bought sprays work, you can also make a simple homemade mosquito repellent using natural ingredients. It’s quick to mix up, smells great, and is perfect for camping trips, backyard nights, or relaxing outside your RV.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup witch hazel
- ½ cup water
- 20–30 drops citronella essential oil
- 10–15 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
- 10–15 drops lavender essential oil
- Small spray bottle
Instructions
- Add the witch hazel and water to your spray bottle.
- Add the essential oils.
- Shake well to combine.
- Spray lightly on exposed skin or around your seating area before heading outside.
Camping Tip
Reapply every couple of hours, during your stay at Knoxville Campground, especially after swimming or sweating. You can also spray a little around your campsite chairs or picnic table to help keep the bugs away while you relax.
Peppermint Patty S’mores
A Cool & Chocolatey Campfire Twist
If you’re looking to mix things up a little on your next camping trip, Peppermint Patty S’mores are the way to go! They’re rich, gooey, and have that cool peppermint finish that makes them feel a little extra special — perfect for camping and winter weekends!
Why You’ll Love This Version
- ✔️ Still easy and kid-friendly
- ✔️ Only 3–4 ingredients
- ✔️ That cool peppermint + warm marshmallow combo is next-level
- ✔️ Perfect for campground events or themed weekends
Ingredients
- Graham crackers
- Marshmallows
- York Peppermint Pattie (full-size or snack-size)
Optional:
- Milk chocolate bar (for extra chocolate)
- Chocolate graham crackers
Equipment
- Campfire or fire pit
- Roasting sticks
- Heat-resistant gloves (optional but helpful for kids)
How to Make Peppermint Patty S’mores
1. Toast the Marshmallow
Roast your marshmallow over the campfire until golden brown and gooey. (Team lightly toasted or team flaming and dramatic? No judgment here.)
2. Build the Base
Place a peppermint patty on top of one graham cracker square.
3. Add the Heat
Set your hot marshmallow directly on top of the peppermint patty. The heat will start melting the chocolate and peppermint filling immediately.
4. Sandwich & Press
Top with the second graham cracker and gently press together. Let it sit for about 10–15 seconds to allow everything to melt into one delicious bite.
Pro Tips for Campground Hosting
- Cut patties in half for mini s’mores at large gatherings.
- Pre-set “s’mores kits” in small bags for easy distribution.
- Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy themed night.
Peppermint Patty S’mores are the perfect way to upgrade a campfire favorite without adding any extra work. They’re simple, fun, and guaranteed to be good! Try this treat the next time you stay at Knoxville Campground!🔥🍫
Campfire Yogurt Parfait Recipe
Whether you’re easing into a slow morning at the campsite or need a quick, no-cook breakfast before a day of exploring, yogurt parfaits are a campground win. They’re simple, customizable, and feel like a treat without the effort!
Why Yogurt Parfaits Are Perfect for Camping
- No cooking required (no stove, no fire)
- Quick to assemble—great for mornings on the go
- Easy to prep ahead in a cooler
- Customizable for kids and adults
- Light but filling for active days
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
- 2 cups Greek or regular yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 1–2 cups fresh fruit
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, bananas, or whatever travels well - 1 cup granola
- Honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Optional toppings:
- Nuts or seeds
- Coconut flakes
- Chocolate chips (because camping 😉)
- Nuts or seeds
How to Make It at the Campsite
- Start with yogurt
Spoon a layer of yogurt into a cup, jar, or bowl. - Add fruit
Sprinkle on your fresh fruit. - Layer granola
Add a crunchy layer of granola. - Repeat layers
Continue until your container is full. - Finish it off
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.
That’s it—no mess, no cleanup, no waiting.
Make-Ahead Camping Tip
Prep parfaits at home in mason jars and store them in your cooler.
Pro tip: Keep granola in a separate bag and add it right before eating to keep it crunchy.
Try this recipe the next time you stay at Knoxville Campground!
Gas-Saving Tips for Camping Road Trips 🚐⛺
Camping road trips are all about adventure—but fuel costs can add up fast. These simple tips can help you go farther without draining your wallet.
1. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Use GPS apps to avoid construction, traffic, and unnecessary detours. Fewer stops = better fuel efficiency.
2. Lighten the Load
Only pack what you truly need. Extra weight makes your vehicle work harder and burn more gas.
3. Check Tire Pressure
Properly inflated tires improve gas mileage and keep your ride safer on long drives.
4. Drive Steady
Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, steady speeds save fuel—especially on highways.
5. Use Cruise Control
On flat roads, cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed and reduces fuel waste.
6. Limit Idling
Turn off your engine during long stops. Idling burns more gas than you might think.
7. Combine Errands
Stock up on groceries, firewood, and supplies in one stop instead of making multiple trips.
8. Roll Down the Windows (When You Can)
At lower speeds, open windows instead of blasting the AC to save fuel.
Utilize these helpful tips to help you save money and reach your campsite at Knoxville Campground sooner!
🎄 Festive Holiday Pancakes
This recipe is an easy one, perfect for cozy winter mornings!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional add-ins:
- Cinnamon or nutmeg
- Mini chocolate chips
- Crushed candy canes
- Cranberries
- Cinnamon or nutmeg
Directions
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Whisk wet ingredients separately, then combine with dry ingredients.
- Fold in your holiday add-ins.
- Cook on a greased skillet until bubbles form, flip, and cook until golden.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
🎁 Holiday Variations
- Peppermint Pancakes: Add crushed candy canes + chocolate chips
- Gingerbread Pancakes: Add 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp ginger, pinch of cloves
- Cranberry Orange Pancakes: Add dried cranberries + orange zest
- Eggnog Pancakes: Replace milk with eggnog
Try this festive recipe the next time you stay at Knoxville Campground!
🎄 Holiday Trail Mix Recipe
Here’s a fun, festive Holiday Trail Mix idea that works great for social posts, blogs, or a quick snack for campers! 🎄🥨
Ingredients:
- Pretzel twists or sticks
- Mini marshmallows
- Roasted peanuts or mixed nuts
- Red & green M&M’s
- White chocolate chips or yogurt-covered raisins
- Dried cranberries or cherries
Optional Add-Ins:
- Mini gingerbread cookies (broken up)
- Candy cane pieces (add right before serving for crunch)
- Coconut flakes
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a large bowl.
- Gently toss until evenly mixed.
- Store in an airtight container or portion into festive bags for gifting or camping snacks.
Tip:
Perfect for road trips, campsite snacking, holiday movie nights, or easy grab-and-go treats 🎅🔥
This festive holiday camping snack is the perfect treat during your stay at Knoxville Campground!
Campfire Pot Pie
Here’s a straightforward Campfire Pot Pie recipe for the next time you want a warm meal while camping! It is a simple and practical recipe for camping outdoors!
Ingredients
- 1 can biscuit dough
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mixed veggies (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- Salt and pepper
- Butter or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Lightly grease a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven.
- In a bowl, mix the soup, veggies, and chicken. Season as needed.
- Pour the mixture into the skillet and spread evenly.
- Flatten the biscuit dough pieces slightly and place them on top to form a crust.
- Cover with a lid and cook over low campfire heat or coals for 20–30 minutes, until biscuits are browned and filling is bubbling.
- Let it rest a couple minutes before serving.
Enjoy this warm comfort meal during your next stay 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!
