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!
Blackberry Glazed Chicken
Campfire blackberry glazed chicken is a mouthwatering and slightly sweet grilled chicken dish that’s perfect for camping. The blackberry glaze adds a burst of flavor and pairs wonderfully with the smoky taste from the campfire. Here’s a simple recipe to make campfire blackberry glazed chicken:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh blackberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the campfire: Start your campfire and let the flames die down to a medium-high heat or wait until you have a good amount of hot coals. You can also use a portable grill or campfire grate.
- Make the blackberry glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and place the saucepan on the campfire grate or grill over the coals.
- Cook the glaze: Cook the blackberry glaze for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The blackberries will break down, and the glaze will thicken slightly. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.
- Grill the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the seasoned chicken directly on the campfire grate or grill over the coals. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through.
- Apply the glaze: Brush the blackberry glaze onto both sides of the grilled chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly on the chicken, creating a flavorful and glossy coating.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked and glazed, remove it from the campfire or grill. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, then serve it with any remaining blackberry glaze drizzled over the top.
Note: You can also prepare the blackberry glaze ahead of time at home and store it in a sealed container until you’re ready to use it at the campsite.
This campfire blackberry glazed chicken is a delightful and unique dish that will impress your fellow campers. Enjoy the delicious flavors of the blackberry glaze combined with the smokiness of the campfire for a memorable outdoor dining experience! Visit us at Knoxville Campground to show off this recipe!
Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn, also known as Elote, is a popular and delicious grilled corn dish that is often enjoyed as a street food snack in Mexico. It’s a flavorful combination of grilled corn on the cob, creamy sauce, spices, and cheese. Here’s a simple recipe for campfire Mexican street corn:
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Cotija cheese or crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare your campfire and let it burn down to a bed of hot coals.
- Place the ears of corn directly on the grill grate or wrap them in aluminum foil to protect the corn from direct contact with the fire.
- Grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the kernels are slightly charred and cooked through, usually about 10-15 minutes.
- While the corn is grilling, prepare the creamy sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the creamy sauce, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Sprinkle the grated Cotija cheese or crumbled feta cheese over the corn, making sure to coat each ear evenly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
- Serve the campfire Mexican street corn with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the corn before eating.
Campfire Mexican street corn is a delicious and flavorful treat that captures the essence of Mexican street food. It’s a perfect side dish to accompany your outdoor meals while camping, adding a touch of spice, creaminess, and tang to your corn on the cob. Enjoy this recipe by booking a site at Knoxville Campground today!
Preventing Tick Bites While Camping
Imagine you are camping and have just spent a long day hiking, biking, and enjoying time with your family. Then you look down and see one of the dreaded black bugs attached to your skin. That’s right, it’s a tick. Nobody wants to be the victim of a tick bite but luckily there are some tips you can follow to minimize your risk of being bitten.
- Wear Protective Clothing: When camping in tick-prone areas, it’s important to wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Tuck your pants into your socks or boots to prevent ticks from crawling up your legs.
- Use Insect Repellent: Apply an EPA-approved insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Look for repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or permethrin. Follow the instructions on the label and reapply as needed.
- Choose Campsites Carefully: Select campsites that are away from tall grasses, dense vegetation, and wooded areas, as these are common habitats for ticks.
- Clear Camping Area: Before setting up your campsite, clear the area of leaves, brush, and tall grass. Ticks often hide in these areas, so creating a clear zone can reduce the chance of encountering them.
- Perform Daily Tick Checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body for ticks. Pay close attention to areas such as the hairline, behind the ears, under the arms, around the waist, inside the belly button, between the legs, and behind the knees. Don’t forget to check your pets as well.
- Remove Ticks Properly: If you find a tick attached to your skin, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Gently pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking, as this may cause the tick’s mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. After removing the tick, clean the area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
- Launder and Dry Clothes: Ticks can hitch a ride on your clothing, so it’s important to wash and dry your clothes on high heat after camping. This can help kill any ticks that may be on your clothes.
- Protect Pets: If you’re camping with pets, make sure they are protected against ticks. Consult with your veterinarian about appropriate tick preventatives for your furry companions.
- Know the Symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, so you can seek medical attention if necessary. Symptoms may include a rash, fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
By following these precautions and being vigilant about tick checks, you can reduce the risk of tick bites while camping. If you find a tick bite and develop any concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly.
We hope these tips can make your camping experience even more enjoyable. We hope to see you all at Knoxville Campground soon!
Nachos
Nachos are perfect for almost every occasion. Snack time, movie time, and even camping! Check out our recipe below for the best campfire nachos.
Ingredients:
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Cooked meat (such as ground beef, shredded chicken, or pulled pork)
- Diced tomatoes
- Diced onions
- Sliced jalapeños
- Black beans (rinsed and drained)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, etc.
Instructions:
- Prepare the campfire: Build a fire and let it burn down to hot coals. You’ll need a good bed of hot coals for cooking the nachos.
- Assemble the nachos: Take a cast-iron skillet or a disposable aluminum foil pan and layer the bottom with a single layer of tortilla chips. Spread an even layer of shredded cheese over the chips. Then, add a layer of cooked meat, diced tomatoes, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, and black beans. Repeat the layers as desired, depending on the size of your skillet or pan.
- Cook the nachos: Place the skillet or pan directly on the hot coals of the campfire. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil to help retain heat and melt the cheese. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the toppings are heated through. You can carefully lift the foil to check the progress.
- Add optional toppings: Once the nachos are cooked, remove the foil cover and add any optional toppings you desire, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro.
- Serve and enjoy: Using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves, carefully remove the skillet or pan from the fire. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out the delicious campfire nachos onto plates or into bowls and enjoy them while they’re still warm and gooey.
Note: Be cautious while handling the hot skillet or pan, as it will be extremely hot. You can use long-handled tongs or utensils to move the nachos or add toppings.
Campfire nachos are a crowd-pleasing camping treat that can be customized with your favorite toppings. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course during your outdoor adventures! We look forward to seeing your nachos at Knoxville Campground.
Trail Mix Ingredients
When it comes to trail mix, there are endless possibilities for ingredient combinations based on personal preferences. Here are some popular and nutritious ingredients to consider for your camping trail mix:
- Nuts: Choose a variety of nuts like almonds, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, or pistachios. They provide protein, healthy fats, and a satisfying crunch.
- Dried fruits: Include a mix of dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, apricots, mangoes, cherries, or blueberries. They add natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
- Seeds: Add some seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or flaxseeds. They contribute a nutrient boost with their high content of healthy fats, fiber, and minerals.
- Whole grains: Consider adding whole grain cereals or pretzels for extra crunch and carbohydrates. Look for options like granola clusters, whole grain flakes, or mini pretzels.
- Chocolate: For a touch of indulgence, include dark chocolate chips or chunks. Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and can satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Coconut flakes: Add some coconut flakes for a tropical twist. They add flavor and a pleasant texture to the mix.
- Spices and seasonings: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a sprinkle of sea salt. These spices can bring a new dimension to the taste profile.
- Protein boosters: For additional protein, you can incorporate ingredients like roasted chickpeas, edamame, or protein-packed cereal puffs.
Remember to adjust the quantities of each ingredient based on personal preferences and dietary needs. You can mix and match these ingredients to create your perfect camping trail mix. Prepare a large batch and store it in an airtight container to have a nutritious and energizing snack ready for your outdoor adventures.
Campfire Chili
Dutch ovens are versatile cooking vessels that are great for preparing meals such as campfire chili and a wide range of other delicious meals while camping. Here’s a simple and tasty Dutch oven recipe you can try:
Dutch Oven Campfire Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions:
- Heat up your Dutch oven over the campfire or charcoal briquettes.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the Dutch oven and cook until browned. Remove any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the Dutch oven and cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and let the chili simmer over low heat for about 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with your choice of optional toppings.
Note: Adjust the cooking time and heat as needed depending on the intensity of your campfire or the number of charcoal briquettes you use. The number of briquettes needed is generally around 1.5 times the diameter of the Dutch oven for the top and half the diameter for the bottom.
Enjoy your flavorful campfire chili cooked in a Dutch oven!
If you’d like to try this recipe, book your site at Knoxville Campground.
Food to Bring
When planning for a camping trip, it’s important to bring food that is easy to prepare but also doesn’t require refrigeration. Make sure it can withstand the elements. Here are some ideas:
Foods
- Trail mix: A great snack that’s easy to pack and carry. Trail mix is a mixture of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and sometimes chocolate or other sweets.
- Canned or dried meats: Tuna, salmon, and chicken are all great options that can be mixed with pasta or rice. This makes for a quick and easy meal.
- Instant oatmeal: A great breakfast option, instant oatmeal is easy to prepare and can be customized with toppings. Some recommended toppings would be fruit, nuts, and honey.
- Peanut butter and jelly: A classic sandwich that’s easy to make and doesn’t require refrigeration.
- Granola bars: Another great snack that’s easy to pack and carry. Granola bars provide energy and nutrients when you need them.
- Fresh fruit: Apples, oranges, and bananas are all good options that can be easily transported and don’t require refrigeration.
- Hot dogs and hamburgers: If you have a grill or fire pit, hot dogs and hamburgers are classic camping foods. They are easy to cook and don’t require much prep.
- Instant noodles: A quick and easy meal, instant noodles can be cooked with boiling water. They can also be mixed with canned or dried meats and vegetables.
- Chips and salsa: A tasty snack that’s easy to pack and carry. Chips and salsa provide a nice crunch and a bit of spice.
- S’mores ingredients: No camping trip is complete without s’mores! Bring graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars for a sweet treat by the fire.
Enjoy your stay with these snacks at Knoxville Campground!
Fish Tacos
Campfire grilled fish tacos are a delicious and easy meal to make while camping. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Corn tortillas
- Cabbage, shredded
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Lime wedges
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
Instructions:
- Build a campfire and let it burn down until you have a good bed of hot coals.
- Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper and brush them lightly with olive oil.
- Place the fish fillets on a grill grate over the fire and cook them, turning once, until they’re cooked through and lightly charred. This will take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Remove the fish from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Heat the corn tortillas over the fire, turning occasionally, until they’re warm and lightly charred.
- To assemble the tacos, place a warm tortilla on a plate and top it with some shredded cabbage and sliced red onion.
- Flake the cooked fish and place it on top of the vegetables.
- Squeeze a lime wedge over the fish and vegetables.
- Top with a spoonful of salsa, a dollop of sour cream, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings to make as many tacos as you need.
Want to try this recipe at a wonderful campground in Tennessee? Check out Knoxville Campground and book your site today!
Fitness While Camping
Staying active and maintaining fitness while camping can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible. Here are some tips for staying fit while on the road:
6 Steps to Maintain Fitness
- Plan your workouts: Schedule your workouts and make them a priority. This could mean going for a run or hike, doing bodyweight exercises inside or outside of the RV, or finding a local gym or fitness class. If you stay at Knoxville Campground, we have an indoor exercise room available for you to use.
- Take advantage of outdoor activities in your area! Look for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or swimming that you can do in the areas you’re traveling through. These activities are great for getting exercise and experiencing the local environment. In Clinton, TN we have a great swimming pool that you could use to exercise.
- Bring equipment like resistance bands, a yoga mat, or dumbbells that are lightweight and easy to store in the RV. This will allow you to do a variety of workouts and stay on track with your fitness goals. In our exercise room, we have equipment such as dumbbells, yoga mats, and treadmills.
- Stay active throughout the day. Small activities like stretching, taking a walk or doing some quick exercises throughout the day can add up and make a difference in your fitness level. Feel free to take a short walk through our campground. It’s a great activity and the scenery is excellent.
- Stay hydrated and eat healthy. Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet will help keep your energy levels up and prevent fatigue during workouts.
- Utilize technology in your life. With a smartphone or tablet, you can access a variety of workout apps and online fitness classes to help keep you motivated and on track. These workouts can be done in your RV or in our exercise room.
Remember that staying active and healthy on the road is a lifestyle choice. By incorporating fitness into your daily routine, you’ll be able to maintain your health and enjoy your travels to the fullest. To try out our exercise room at Knoxville Campground, visit our website and book online today.
Camping at Good Sam Parks
Good Sam is an RV camping brand throughout the US and Canada. Those that are part of the Good Sam membership are able to enjoy discounts at many Good Sam parks. All campgrounds within the brand are rated on the website. The rating system is based on three categories: amenities, cleanliness, and environment. Each rating is on a scale of 1-10. Knoxville Campground is a Good Sam park.
How to become a Good Sam member
Signing up for a Good Sam membership is very easy. You can visit the Good Sam website and then select Membership at the top or this link will take you directly to it. From there you can browse more information as well as pricing. If you are ready to sign up for your membership, you can select Join Now and begin the process.
Does Knoxville Campground offer a Good Sam discount?
Knoxville Campground does offer a Good Sam discount. This discount is available whether you book online or in person. When booking online simply use the code sam2023. This code will apply the discount to your reservation. To keep this discount on your reservation, you must provide proof of membership during the check-in process.
What is the Good Sam rating for Knoxville Campground?
Knoxville Campground is very highly rated. You can find us on the Good Sam website or take a look at our current rating below. Our sister campgrounds are also highly rated Good Sam parks which can be found below.
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!
