Camping Food Meal Plan For 1 Week
Food can be enjoyed all kinds of ways. Camping food is great because it allows you to be creative and enjoying it in an outdoor setting is always great. Planning meals for a week-long camping trip may seem like a struggle as you dont have the luxuries of everything in your kitchen, but having a proper plan and layout makes it a lot easier.
Let’s explore what is takes to create the perfect camping trip with the tastiest meals. From quick breakfasts to start your day off right, to tasty dinners cooked over the fire, this guide provides everything you need – cookware, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions – to prepare delicious meals for a fun 7-day family camping trip.
Cooking Essentials Needed
Having the right cookware and tools is the most important part of having great meals. Without these necessities, you wont be able to enjoy your 7 day meal plan provided later on. Here are list of essential cookware tools to make your life that much easier
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- Camping Grill/Stove – Used for burgers, chicken sandwiches, and more.
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- Cast Iron Skillet or Frying Pan – Used to cook over the fire for eggs and other meals.
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- Medium Size Pot with Lid – For cooking large quantities of food to bring on your camping trip. Taco meat can be prepared ahead of time.
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- Kettle or Coffee Pot – Used to heat water for tea or coffee on mornings your tired.
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- Roasting Sticks – Used for cooking hotdogs and marshmallows over the fire.
- Knife, Cutting Board, cooking utensils and serving essentials
Breakfast – The Most Important Meal of the Day
Day 1: Breakfast Burritos with hashbrown – These can either be prepared ahead of time and warmed up. You can also make from scratch while camping over the fire or in an oven.
Day 2: Pancakes/Waffles with fresh fruit – With a pancake or waffle maker you can make a delicious meal.
Day 3: Scrambled eggs and bacon with a side of fresh fruit – Eggs can be make over the fire and cooked to your liking. Cut up some fresh fruit to go with it! I found this article helpful Campfire Egg in a Ladle | Bush Cooking
Day 4: Premade muffins or cereal – For days when you want to start your adventures started early, a quick bowl of cereal or store bought muffins is a great choice.
Day 5: Egg sandwiches with fresh fruit – The egg sandwiches can also be premade. But you can cook the eggs over a fire and toast a bagel with cream cheese. Add a sausage patty or bacon to top it off!
Day 6: Bagels or Pop Parts/Toaster Strudle’s – Another day where you are either in a rush from oversleeping, or have early plans, this is a great option. These quick options make for a tasty, sweet treat in the morning.
Day 7: Leftovers from the week – You may want to hit the road first thing in the morning and won’t have time to cook breakfast. If you arent in a rush you can prepare yourself some eggs with hashbrowns or leftover pancakes from earlier in the week.
Lunch – Noon at The Campsite
Day 1: Hot Dogs over the fire with fries – This is one of my favorites as its a whole family activity. Dont forget buns and condiments.
Day 2: Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with chips – A more simple meal for when you’re on the road. You can’t beat a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
Day 3: Tacos – You can prepare the taco meat ahead of time and bring lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, taco shells, etc… to enjoy this lunch.
Day 4: Grilled cheese or pizzas over the fire with tater tots – Use a Double Pie Campfire Cast Iron to cook over the fire. Butter 2 pieces of bread, put your toppings of choice such as cheese in the middle and enjoy cooking over the fire!
Day 5: Turkey and ham sandwiches with fruit – Another more simple meal for when you dont have time mid day to prepare a meal. All of these can be served with chips, snacks, or fruit.
Day 6: Chicken Wraps with mac & Cheese – These can be prepared ahead of time too. You can also grill chicken when your there too. Remember to bring lettuce, tomatoes, and whatever else you want in your lunch wraps. A side of mac & cheese prepared ahead of time goes perfectly with this.
Day 7: Leftover Sandwiches and snacks from the week – If you dont want to cook again, this is always a great option. Sandwiches are smart here too if you’re on the road headed home.
Dinner – Twilight Campfire Feasts
Day 1: Chicken Sandwiches with fries – Grilling the sandwiches is best as fresh is always better. You can cook the fries in the oven in your camper or ahead of time if you dont have one. Remember your buns, toppings, and seasoning for the sandwiches.
Day 2: Hot Dogs and Brats served with corn – You can cook the hot dogs over the fire and grill the corn. Dont forget the essentials for hot dogs and butter and salt/pepper for the corn.
Day 3: Mexican fiesta night – Prepare fajitas or whatever Mexican dish you’d like ahead of time. Then warm up the dish in your camp oven.
Day 4: Hot Pockets – On days you dont feel like cooking, warm up some hot pocket or any frozen food to enjoy on a relaxing evening.
Day 5: Chili Mac with Beef – This dish can be prepared ahead of time and can be warmed up over the fire in a pan or cast iron skillet. Here’s an article I found helpful on how to cook this dish – One Pot Chili Mac – Fresh Off The Grid
Day 6: Burgers on the grill – This classic American dish is perfect for camping. You can cook fries or tater tots ahead of time or in the campers oven. Dont forget all of the toppings you prefer for your burgers!
Day 7: Kebabs – This dish is creative as you can cook them on a stick over the fire or in the oven. Dont forget your meat of choice and any vegetables you prefer for your meal.
With the right equipment and preparation, making delicious meals for a 7 day camping trip can be simple and enjoyable. You are now ready and stress-free for your week long family camping trip. Don’t forget the essential cookware and have a blast preparing these meals for your family!
Camping 365. Which season is best to camp in?
As we approach a new season in camping, things start to change. The leaves change colors and eventually fall to the ground, the weather can drastically change, and the experience is far different. In order to stay prepared to camp in the upcoming months or know if you should wait until the cold months pass to camp, you will need to know the differences in the 4 main seasons for camping. I am going to focus on the Midwest, as these States experience drastic changes in weather. The 4 seasons are truly a gift, so you should take advantage and test your limits by camping 4 times next year so you can experience the pros and cons of each season. I am going to break down the 4 seasons by weather, gear needed, and considerations. Here are the differences in camping between the 4 seasons.
The Crisp and Cozy season of Fall
Weather
There is cooler, unpredictable weather. It may rain or snow as well. The leaves begin to change color and fall. The days are shorter than summer. You will still be able to enjoy outdoor activities as you won’t be too hot nor too cold.
Gear needed
Prepare for anything. This would be the most likely scenario to “overpack”. Layering clothing is a great option as it may be very chilly in the morning, then warm up throughout the day. A rain jacket is recommended too as well as a winter jacket as you never know what’s coming. Make sure you have rain proof tents in case of rainy nights.
Consideration
The scenery while fall camping is amazing. The leaves changing colors with the crisp breeze coming by make for perfect evenings. Just be mindful that it can start getting a little more chilly as night approaches. It is truly special to go camping during the fall, especially hiking. Stay aware as there may be special halloween or thanksgiving events at your campsite!
The Cold yet Majestic Scenery of Winter
Weather
The coldest, potentially snowiest weather. Winter has the shortest days and longer nights. So plan your days accordingly. Remember to stay warm during this time with proper clothing
Gear Needed
You would want to pack the warmest clothes you have during winter camping. Snow pants for hikes, winter gloves, hat, etc…. Hand warmers or insulated sleeping pads are a great idea. A great deal I found online was https://www.campexploring.com/Insulated Sleeping Pad – Amazon. Another recommendation would be insulated water bottles to keep your morning coffee warm.
Consideration
Winter is probably the most challenging time of year to camp in, but I still would recommend it to most. Creating snowmen or snowball fights with your family is a something you can’t do any other time of the year. Winter is where you will find the most extreme form of hiking as there can be snow everywhere, so dress warm!
Spring, When the Blossoms Start to Bloom
Weather
Similar to Fall, unpredictable weather, with warmer or cooler temperatures at time. There’s a higher chance of rain, with a beautiful scenery of emerging foliage. You will have far more daylight compared to winter as well.
Gear Needed
Mostly the same situation that applied to fall applies here. Make sure you have waterproof equipment for those rainy days. Wear warm yet lightweight clothing as it can still be a little chilly out. It is also typically muddy out due to the snow melting so waterproof boots wouldn’t be a bad idea. Bring a few umbrellas to stay dry during this time. Here’s a nice pair of https://www.campexploring.com/Waterproof Rain Boots I found to protect your feet during this type of weather.
Consideration
Spring also has a beautiful scenery as the flowers start to bloom. It may be very wet outside to remember your waterproof gear mentioned above. Spring is a very calm and relaxing time of year for camping as there are normally less people out this time of year. This makes for the best trail hikes especially with pets as it’s far less crowded.
The Sunny Season of Summer
Weather
Usually the weather is warm or hot. The sun is beaming so proper shade is crucial. Summer also has the longest days and shorter nights.
Gear Needed
Typically light clothing such as shorts or tee shirts are best for this weather. Due to sunny days, I recommend a shade tarp https://www.campexploring.com/Shade Tarp . There are many other tarps out there to be found. Make sure to bring bug spray too as those pesty insects can be a problem during this time.
Consideration
The most popular camping time is during the summer. The longest days give for the greatest adventures. Going to a nearby beach is a great experience. Staying hydrated is important during these long, hot days. I would recommend getting a citronella candle https://www.campexploring.com/Citronella Candle or two to keep the bugs away.
As you plan your next camping adventure, keep in mind how each season brings unique challenges and rewards. Whether it’s the blooming landscapes of spring, the long days of summer, the vibrant colors of autumn, or the majestic feel of winter, each season offers a new adventure with nature. With the right preparation and gear, you can enjoy camping year-round while staying confortable and safe. Take advantage of the changing conditions, and make the most of your next camping trip whichever season that may lie. Happy camping!
Camping Activities That Will Have you Amazed
When it comes to camping, the possibilities are endless. The best part of camping is coming up with creative and fun things to do to as a group. There are plenty of things to do while camping. Depending on the type of camper you are these activities can range from games, to sports, to physical activities, to group activities. With that being said, In this post ill share 5 different summer camp activities you need to try out with your family.
Get up and go on a hike at 5 am
There are many different ways to hike. This is a unique way to explore nature and the possibilities are endless. You can hike alone, with a friend, or group of family/friends. This activity is great for camping because many campsites have trails begging to be hiked on. You can walk for as long as you wish, but some trails can go for miles! This activity includes great exercise as your constantly walking through different terrains. With proper equipment and attire, hiking can be all sorts of fun. I challenge you to go on a hike far earlier than when you would normally get up. You will most likely be the only one out there and it wont disappoint. You get to see views no one else will. To check out trails near you, check out AllTrails: Trail Guides & Maps for Hiking, Camping, and Running | AllTrails.
Play Michigan’s Favorite Card Game
With family and friends, card games can bring everyone together for hours of fun. Euchre is my personal favorite as its a widely known game in Michigan. Its a 4 player game with a unique set of rules that may be hard to learn at first, but will have you hooked once you get the hang of it. The best video I came across to help you learn the basics is How to Play Euchre (youtube.com). Some others include Uno, Skipbo, and Spoons just to name a few. Card games can be played at most campsites as there’s usually a picnic table at your site.
Create a unique tasty treat over the fire
Take advantage of your camping equipment and fire that has been provided. There’s nothing better than relaxing by the campfire listening to the crackling sound made from the burning wood. Making smores is a popular option among campers. It involves the right technique to make the perfectly cooked marshmallow to your liking. Instead of the classic Hersheys chocolate used in a smore, my family likes using Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups as an alternative You can be creative with this as there’s many other things to be cooked over a fire. Some include hot dogs, custom sandwiches, creative pies, and anything your mind can come up with. Check out Amazon to find cast iron pie squares that are perfect for cooking pies and sandwiches over the fire. The one I found is Amazon.com: Alytree Double Pie Irons for Camping Cast Iron, Portable Mountain Campfire Pie Maker, Cast Iron Campfire Pudgy Maker, Sandwich Press for Camping : Sports & Outdoors. This activity is for after a long day where you need that final meal/treat to complete your adventures.
Fall Kayaking
At many campsites you will find some form of swimmable water. If this is not the case, go out of your way to find a lake nearby. This is where you can do things such as swimming, rock skipping, enjoying the beach, or my personal favorite, Kayaking. Lots of fun can be made at beaches and its especially fun while you’re camping as you can discover new bodys of water. Kayaking can lead to places unreachable from swimming. Kayaking is also a form of exercise which will make you feel good after exploring the views you can’t get from land. Now that were in the fall season, give Kayaking a go as you will see how the water is affected and how the leaves have changed, this is something you won’t get from summer kayaking. Watching the waves come by is very relaxing.
Bring a sports ball or invest in a Spikeball Net
There are many things to do sports related while camping. As much as you might miss playing or watching your favorite sport, you can still have fun throwing the football or any sports ball around. For those looking to get more competitive, a game of cornhole or Spikeball will get you wanting to show off your skills in this nature. This can also be enjoyed on the beach. Here’s a simple video to watch in case you havent played Spikeball before Spikeball Basics: How to Play Roundnet (youtube.com). Playing catch can be all kinds of fun, just make sure to not overthrow the ball into water or another campsite, as it’s bound to happen. My dad brother and I love a game a catch, especially baseball. This is a great activity to do while camping, and would highly recommend to most.
These were just a few fun camping activities worth checking out. I recommend you try out at least one next time you settle in at a campsite. The fun part about camping is that the possibilities are endless and time is on your side as a whole days worth of fun is waiting for you. I hope you find joy in these activities as much as my family and I did.
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