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!
🥩 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!
Cozy Campfire Traditions to Start This Thanksgiving
There’s something magical about spending Thanksgiving surrounded by crisp air, glowing embers, and the quiet of the outdoors. Whether you’re celebrating at a campground, in your backyard, or on a family getaway, starting a few cozy campfire traditions can make the holiday even more meaningful. This year, swap the usual rush for something simpler, warmer, and rooted in connection.
1. Campfire Cooking With a Thanksgiving Twist
Turn your campfire into the heart of your holiday feast. Try easy Thanksgiving-style recipes like:
- Dutch oven turkey breast
- Foil-pack stuffing or roasted veggies
- Cast-iron cranberry skillet dessert
Cooking outside not only adds flavor—it turns the meal into a shared family experience.
2. Gratitude Circle Around the Fire
Before the meal, gather around the fire and take turns sharing what you’re thankful for. The soft crackle of the flames makes this simple moment feel powerful and memorable.
3. Warm Drinks for Chilly Nights
Create your own campfire drink tradition—think hot cocoa with toppings, spiced cider, or even a warm maple coffee. A shared drink on a cold night feels like the perfect Thanksgiving welcome.
4. Storytelling Under the Stars
Pass around a lantern or flashlight and share family stories, childhood memories, or tales from past camping trips. It’s a fun way to bond and create new memories while honoring old ones.
5. A Campfire Game Everyone Can Play
Keep a simple family game on hand—like charades, “two truths and a lie,” or firelight trivia. These easy traditions spark laughter and are perfect for all ages.
6. Make a “Thanksgiving Campfire Keepsake”
Have everyone toss a small pinecone into the fire while making a wish for the upcoming year. It’s symbolic, sweet, and meaningful without needing any supplies.
7. End the Night With a Sweet Treat
Finish the evening with a classic dessert made even better by the campfire: s’mores, cinnamon sugar campfire donuts, or a gooey Dutch oven cobbler.
Start a Tradition You’ll Look Forward to Every Year
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs connection, warmth, and a little firelight. By creating your own campfire traditions, you’ll build a holiday that feels cozy, intentional, and unforgettable. Start your tradition today at Knoxville Campground!
🥣 Creamy Olive Oil Tomato Soup
Here’s a creamy olive oil tomato soup recipe that’s rich, smooth, and full of Mediterranean flavor — perfect for chilly days or a cozy campfire dinner! 🍅✨
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
🧄 Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or fire-roasted for extra flavor)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp sugar (balances acidity)
- ½ tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for dairy-free version)
- Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for topping (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
- Sauté aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add tomato paste
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to caramelize—it deepens the flavor. - Simmer the soup
Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Add salt, pepper, sugar, basil, and thyme.
Stir, then bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Blend until smooth
Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender carefully) and blend until creamy. - Make it silky
Stir in the heavy cream and a drizzle of olive oil. Simmer 2–3 more minutes. - Serve
Ladle into bowls, drizzle with more olive oil, and top with Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
🍞 Serving Ideas:
- Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches or garlic bread
- Drizzle with chili oil for a little kick
- Serve in a mug by the campfire for cozy vibes
Try this soup recipe next time you’re camping in cold weather 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!
