{"id":10528,"date":"2009-04-08T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2009-04-08T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.sunset.com\/travel\/camping"},"modified":"2025-08-01T16:49:46","modified_gmt":"2025-08-01T23:49:46","slug":"travel-camping","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/travel\/camping","title":{"rendered":"Camping"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n\n \n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Your ultimate guide to camping, with the best ideas for campgrounds, gear, cooking, and more","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"landing-page.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"_should_modify_publish_date":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[33,17],"tags":[31397],"layout":[67],"class_list":["post-10528","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-camping","category-travel","tag-camping-in-the-west","layout-article"],"acf":{"display_row_fields":"yes","page_subheadline":"Your ultimate guide to camping, with the best ideas for campgrounds, gear, cooking, and more","display_row_1":"yes","stories_row_1_top":[{"ID":190856,"post_author":"99","post_date":"2025-07-31 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-07-31 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

August is still prime time for spontaneous escapes<\/a> and memory-making. And what better way to lean into the long days and warm nights than with a getaway that channels the magic of classic summer camp? Think forest trails, morning paddles, crafts beneath the redwoods, and\u2014yes\u2014s\u2019mores. But this isn\u2019t your childhood bunk-bed situation. Across California, resorts and ranches<\/a> are reimagining the spirit of camp with elevated touches, farm-to-fork menus, and programming that blends fun with nature-focused learning. Whether you're chasing stargazing in Mendocino or horseback rides in the Santa Ynez Valley<\/a>, here are eight can\u2019t-miss destinations that make it easy to unplug, reconnect, and let the kids explore the great outdoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And while these escapes shine in late summer, their camp-meets-comfort charm makes them worth bookmarking for any season. So fill the tank, cue up the playlist, and get ready to roam\u2014California camp season is far from being over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The River Electric: Guerneville\u2019s Swim Club Revival<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"The

Bess Friday\/The River Electric<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Guerneville, California<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This newly opened resort and swim club is a summer camp, reimagined\u2014with bold design choices, cheeky nostalgia, and just the right amount of glamour. Tucked beneath the redwoods along the Russian River, The River Electric<\/a> features 40 designer-furnished canvas tents, two dreamy pools, and a check-in lounge that feels more like a boutique hotel lobby than a campground. The bathhouse? All tile, brass, and natural light\u2014chic enough to make you forget you\u2019re \u201croughing it.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While kids explore the creek or join in on lawn games, grown-ups can sip spritzes by the pool, snack on tackle boxes stocked with everything from Kaluga Caviar to housemade potato chips, or split a bucket of jumbo shrimp served with serious flair. It\u2019s the most glorious way to dip your toe into glamping<\/a>\u2014and possibly the only camp where you\u2019ll leave wanting to redecorate your house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Lodge at Marconi: West Marin, Reimagined<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"

Michael Lax<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Marshall, California, in West Marin<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once a historic telegraph site, this newly reimagined retreat<\/a> blends its roots in mid-century architecture with warm, wood-clad design and a slow-living sensibility that feels both retro and refined. Set high above Tomales Bay in a forested state park, The Lodge at Marconi<\/a> offers a rare kind of peace\u2014sunrise journaling under bay trees, guided native plant walks, and firepits perfect for unplugged evenings and stargazing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Design lovers will appreciate the stylish 70s-inspired cabins, each updated with thoughtful finishes and curated details. S\u2019mores kits are available at the front desk, and after a hike or botanical walk, you can pick up provisions at the on-site gourmet market\u2014perfect for impromptu picnics or late afternoon sips overlooking the water. There\u2019s also a seasonal restaurant serving a standout menu of local fare, and shared BBQs where you can throw a bag of Hog Island oysters<\/a> on the grill after a day spent exploring the coast. It\u2019s summer camp meets coastal sanctuary\u2014with a view you won\u2019t soon forget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carmel Valley Ranch: Camp Vibes with a Luxe Twist<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Carmel

Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Carmel, California<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where else can you forage for herbs with a chef, take a beekeeping class, hike among wildflowers, and then soak in a hot tub under the stars? Carmel Valley Ranch\u2019s<\/a> hands-on, nature-forward offerings are designed to spark curiosity at every age, with daily activities like falconry experiences, lasso lessons, and culinary garden explorations, all designed to nurture a deeper connection with the land. And yes, there are miniature donkeys<\/a> available for private family picnics (cue the photo op of a lifetime).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it\u2019s time to cool off, River Ranch has not one, not two, but three pools. The main Family Pool is a playful scene for all ages and includes a newly renovated hot tub, a new children\u2019s wading pool, and a splash pad for the littlest guests. The Flex Pool (also with a hot tub) is for adults looking to alternate between lap swimming and leisurely lounging. With new landscaping, upgraded loungers, and fire pits sprinkled throughout, it\u2019s a dream setup for kicking back after a full day of adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mendocino Grove: Glamping in the Trees<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Mendocino

Courtesy of Mendocino Grove<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Mendocino, California<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tucked into the coastal headlands just minutes from town, Mendocino Grove<\/a> offers that breezy, redwood-scented kind of escape where nature sets the pace\u2014but you never have to sleep on the ground. Families can settle into safari-style tents outfitted with real beds, cozy linens, and private decks, then spend the day exploring tide pools, hiking the nearby loop trail, or kicking back in a hammock strung between trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At Campground HQ, the vibe is warm and communal. Mornings start with coffee, cocoa, and a rotating breakfast surprise served from 7:30 to 10 a.m., and Friday nights bring chef-led dinners that showcase fresh, seasonal flavors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kids can run free with bocce, badminton, and horseshoes, while parents sneak in a little hammock time. The property\u2019s thoughtful add-ons\u2014like custom dining packages, s\u2019mores kits, and easy access to Big River and local canoe rentals\u2014make it a perfect choose-your-own-adventure kind of place. It\u2019s all the spirit of summer camp, wrapped in fresh sea air and coastal comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alisal Ranch: Saddle up, Cast off, and Kick Back in Style<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Alisal

Teal Thompson\/Alisal Ranch<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Solvang, California<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This legendary 10,500-acre property<\/a> blends Western adventure with laid-back luxury. Alisal Ranch<\/a> offers the kind of memory-making experiences that feel lifted from a storybook. Daily horseback rides wind through oak-studded hills, kids can help feed the animals during barnyard visits, and the private lake sets the scene for paddle boating, kayaking, and guided fishing adventures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One not-to-miss tradition? The breakfast horseback ride to historic Adobe Camp, where guests saddle up at sunrise and head out on a scenic ride beneath giant sycamores. Waiting at the campfire: a full western-style breakfast\u2014legendary flapjacks, eggs, bacon, sausage, quesadillas, pastries, and more. Prefer not to ride? No problem\u2014you can join by hay wagon and still soak up the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While kids are happily engaged in The Kids Club\u2014with projects, outdoor play, and animal encounters\u2014parents can hit the trails solo or indulge in garden-to-table cooking classes, a wine tasting, or a well-earned nap beneath the oaks. Evenings bring movie nights, bingo in the barn, and fireside s\u2019mores under the stars. With blooming grounds, wide-open skies, and that perfect mix of rustic and refined, it\u2019s like if summer camp grew up\u2014beautifully<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ojai Valley Inn: Nature Meets Nurture in the Summer Camp Series<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Beekeeping

Ojai Valley Inn<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Ojai, California<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Ojai Valley Inn\u2019s<\/a> summer programming includes everything from pollinator education to guided nature art classes, family yoga, and outdoor movie nights beneath the stars. Set against a landscape of golden hills and old-growth sycamores, it\u2019s a soulful, stylish escape where every generation can engage with nature in their own way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Young guests can dive into the immersive world of Camp Oak, where ages 4\u201312 enjoy curated, Ojai-inspired programming\u2014think arts and crafts, science experiments, and fresh-air adventures. With full-day, half-day, and even night camp sessions, parents can slip away for a spa afternoon or savor a long, wine-paired dinner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t miss the resort\u2019s beekeeping experiences, where guests can suit up and step into the buzzing world of the hives, learning about Ojai\u2019s<\/a> native pollinators and their critical role in the environment. Whether you\u2019re making candles from beeswax or discovering the magic of honey harvest, it\u2019s a hands-on, memory-making moment for all ages. From peaceful mornings in the Artist Cottage to golden-hour strolls under sycamores, the Inn offers a quintessential Ojai experience\u2014thoughtful, joyful, and totally unplugged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greenhorn Ranch: A Five-Star Dude Ranch in the Lost Sierra<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Greenhorn

Courtesy of Greenhorn Ranch<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Quincy, California<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Saddle up! Set on 600 pine-studded acres in Northern California\u2019s Lost Sierra, Greenhorn Ranch<\/a> is a working dude ranch that blends classic summer camp vibes with elevated Western hospitality. Since 1962, Greenhorn Ranch has welcomed families with a mix of wide-open adventure and rustic comfort\u2014and the fun shows no signs of slowing down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The days here are packed with just-for-kids programming like the Kiddie Corral (ages 3\u20135), where buckaroo fishing, forest discovery, and obstacle courses keep little ones busy while grownups sneak away for skeet shooting or a whiskey tasting. Older kids can roam and ride with Junior Greenhorns (ages 6\u201311), trying their hand at archery, slingshots, horseback trail rides, and hands-on crafts. Evening brings family karaoke, movie nights, and s\u2019mores around the campfire\u2014cue the nostalgia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For teens and adults, it\u2019s all about unplugging in style: e-bike trails through open forest, gold panning excursions, fly fishing with expert guides, and peaceful mornings on horseback. Need to cool off? Lounge by the pool, then catch sunset at the Saloon over a well-earned cocktail while the kids chase frogs by the creek. With access to over 500,000 acres of public land and a schedule full of immersive outdoor experiences, Greenhorn Ranch is a choose-your-own-adventure destination with something for every generation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa: Sports Camp Meets Coastal Escape<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Omni

Courtesy of Omni La Costa Resort & Spa<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location:<\/strong> Carlsbad, California<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For families who want to move, the sunny Omni La Costa Resort & Spa<\/a> offers tennis, pickleball, and junior golf clinics led by pros\u2014all with an encouraging, kid-first approach. Young athletes can dive into weekly Tennis & Pickleball Camps designed to build skills, teamwork, and a love for the game. From the intensive Summer High-Performance Junior Tennis Academy to morning and afternoon camps for various ages, the pros at Cliff Drysdale Tennis cover every level. Junior Pickleball Programs introduce beginners to basic strokes and hand-eye coordination, progressing to advanced play for teens. Budding golfers can learn alongside PGA-certified pros on the resort\u2019s renowned courses through Junior Golf Clinics, focusing on technique, etiquette, and on-course experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For the littlest campers, Little Sprouts is a lively club and childcare program for kids ages six months to 12 years. With day camps seven days a week and evening night camps twice weekly, the club offers soft climb toys, puzzles, laser tag, basketball games, a craft room, and a mesmerizing 600-gallon saltwater aquarium filled with exotic fish. Whether rallying on the courts or teeing off on championship greens, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa delivers a summer camp experience tailored for every member of the family.<\/p>\n","post_title":"8 Summer Camp\u2013Inspired Getaways for Families Who Love Nature","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"summer-camp-inspired-getaways","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-08-06 14:41:15","post_modified_gmt":"2025-08-06 21:41:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/?p=190856","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"stories_row_1_bottom":[{"ID":190365,"post_author":"97","post_date":"2025-07-11 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-07-11 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

Before you embark on your epic summer road trip<\/a>, you'll want to make sure your car is stocked with the right gear. A little prep goes a long way when you're covering long stretches of highway, chasing views, and venturing into the unknown. These road trip must-haves will keep you safe, comfortable, and ready for whatever the journey throws your way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jumper Cables<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Wolfbox

Courtesy of Wolfbox<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"WOLFBOX MegaVolt24 Jump Starter, $155\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/go.skimresources.com?id=120815X1581039&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwolfbox.com%2Fproducts%2Fwolfbox-megavolt24-jump-starter\"]\n\n\n\n

Roadside assistance is a wonderful and affordable thing to have, but when you're traveling to destinations that may be off the grid or out of service, jumper cables can really come in handy, even if it's to assist others. They take up hardly any space and can save you from waiting hours for help to show up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First Aid Kit<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Johnson

Courtesy of Amazon<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit, $17\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Johnson-All-Purpose-Portable-Compact-Emergency\/dp\/B09NWH8553?&linkCode=ll1&tag=prodnostic06-20&linkId=dde8475d3999cdd4973a6825f31f8ece&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl\"]\n\n\n\n

Just like your go-bag<\/a>, a well-stocked first aid kit helps keep your trip on track in case of bumps, scrapes, bruises, or injuries. Be sure to regularly restock. It's surprising how quickly those Band-Aids run out when in need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Multi-Tool<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Leather

Courtesy of Leatherman<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"Leatherman Skeletool $75\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/go.skimresources.com?id=120815X1581039&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.leatherman.com%2Fproducts%2Fskeletool\"]\n\n\n\n

This all-in-one gadget handles quick fixes, snack slicing, and bottle opening, and is truly a tiny, trusty road companion. Our all time favorite is the Leatherman Skeletool<\/a>, which shines under any circumstance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Headlamp<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Black

Courtesy of Black Diamond<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"BLACK DIAMOND Astro 300, $25\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/go.skimresources.com?id=120815X1581039&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fblackdiamondequipment.com%2Fproducts%2Fastro-300-headlamp\"]\n\n\n\n

Flashlights are also a great thing to have on hand, but headlamps are even better to have because they keep your hands free while checking under the hood or making repairs or simply digging through the trunk when you're unloading your gear at night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gallon Water Jug<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"New

Courtesy of Amazon<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"Gallon Water Jug, $20\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/New-Wave-Enviro-Gallon-Bottle\/dp\/B005P0NPKM?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=prodnostic06-20&linkId=bbc4b8c467b70e474025c31ba80c160c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl\"]\n\n\n\n

This is a smart backup to stay hydrated between stops or be prepared in case of a breakdown somewhere remote. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Duct Tape<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"Heavy Duty Duct Tape, $16\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Amazon-Basics-Heavy-Duty-General-Purpose-activities\/dp\/B07YDSC22B?&linkCode=ll1&tag=prodnostic06-20&linkId=3663a4b11cef8db51b3b0d44485a4ecb&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl\"]\n\n\n\n

Good for quick car repairs, tent fixes, and even a torn flip-flop, duct tape does it all. Keep a roll in the trunk and be surprised by how often it comes in handy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Snack Stash<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Barebells<\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"Barebells Protein Bars Variety Pack, $33\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Barebells-Protein-Bars-Variety-Pack\/dp\/B09PYB4MQS?&linkCode=ll1&tag=prodnostic06-20&linkId=3832ae9285af7d231a690a1f536ef3f3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl\"]\n\n\n\n

A mix of salty, sweet, and protein-packed snacks can help you power through long drives and avoid overpriced gas station options, and of course keep you fueled should the unexpected happen. Be sure to check expiration dates regularly, just like you do with your at-home emergency kits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paper Maps<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Rand

Courtesy of Rand McNally<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"Rand McNally State Maps, $12\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/randpublishing.com\/easy-to-read-california-state-map.html\"]\n\n\n\n

Remember those old Thomas Guides? Time to get back to basics. GPS is great until you lose service. Old-school maps are a reliable backup and a fun way to track your route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emergency Blanket<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Sol

Courtesy of REI<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"REI SOL Emergency Blanket, $7\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/alnk.to\/gzXOeTZ\"]\n\n\n\n

Lightweight and compact, these can help keep you warm if you get stranded overnight or make a chilly picnic more comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunscreen<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Dune

Courtesy of Dune Suncare<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n[shopping_cart_button text=\"Dune Suncare Mineral Melt, $30\" price=\"Buy Now\" url=\"https:\/\/dunesuncare.com\/products\/the-mineral-melt\"]\n\n\n\n

Even behind glass, UV rays can do some serious damage. Keep a small bottle within reach to protect your skin during long drives or spontaneous pit stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n


We only recommend things we love. If you buy something through our site, we might earn a commission.<\/em><\/p>\n","post_title":"These Are the Essential Safety Tools Every Traveler Needs in the Car for a Road Trip","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"road-trip-essentials","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-07-23 10:45:04","post_modified_gmt":"2025-07-23 17:45:04","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/?p=190365","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":190016,"post_author":"97","post_date":"2025-06-27 04:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-06-27 11:00:00","post_content":"\n

Recently, we've been obsessing over the majorly hunger-inducing mukbangs from HelloItSoap<\/a> over on TikTok. (I mean Korean fried chicken and oysters over the campfire? Yes please.) And since it's camping season and all, we might as well bookmark some of the easiest camping meals that you can make in a breeze during your travels this season. If Adam Glick can make his entire Thanksgiving meal over a campfire<\/a>, then we can make a dinner or two that's more robust that hot dogs. Here are some of our favorites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"

Erin Kunkel<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Loaded Sweet Potatoes <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Wrap whole sweet potatoes<\/a> in foil and nestle them directly in the coals for about 45 minutes until they're tender and caramelized. You can test doneness with a fork or your Leatherman<\/a>. Split them open and load with camping classics like canned black beans, shredded cheese, and hot sauce, or get fancy with pre-cooked bacon bits, sour cream, or chili crisp. The foil-wrapped potatoes can even be prepped at home and reheated at camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Bean

The Good Brigade\/Getty Images<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Dense Bean Salad<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This protein-packed salad<\/a> has become a staple for quick lunch al desko because it requires zero cooking and gets better as it marinates over time. Plus it's packed with nutrients. Just mix canned beans, diced vegetables, heaps of herbs, and a simple vinaigrette in a large bowl before you leave home. Store in a giant tupperware and pair it with grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian main, or enjoy it as a hearty dip by scooping up the salad with good tortilla chips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Dutch

Thomas J. Story<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There's nothing better than the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon buns<\/a>. Unless, that is, you make them in the great outdoors over a campfire. By freezing and rolling the buns into logs ahead of time, you eliminate any of the dirty work at the site. Check out our recipe here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"

Thomas J. Story<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Dutch Oven Braised Beef<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This set-it-and-forget-it meal<\/a> transforms tough cuts of meat into fork-tender perfection using the gentle, even heat of a Dutch oven buried in coals. Add root vegetables, broth, and herbs, then let the campfire do all the work while you relax with a cold drink\u2014it's nearly impossible to overcook, making it perfect for camping novices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"

Thomas J. Story<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Huli Huli Chicken Wings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

These Hawaiian-style wings<\/a> get their sweet and savory glaze from a simple mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice that caramelizes beautifully over the open flame. The key is to cook them low and slow, turning frequently (the term huli huli means \"to turn\" in Hawaiian) to achieve that perfect crispy skin without burning the sugary coating\u2014marinate them at home in a zip-top bag for maximum flavor and minimal camp cleanup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Turkey

Thomas J. Story<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Campfire Chili <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Brown your ground meat in a Dutch oven, then add canned tomatoes, beans, and spices for a hearty meal that feeds a crowd. The longer it simmers over the coals, the better the flavors meld together, making it perfect for those leisurely camping evenings\u2014plus, you can prep all the ingredients at home and just dump everything into the pot at camp. You can get a turkey-based recipe here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Camp

Thomas J. Story<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cast Iron Pizza<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Pre-made pizza dough stretches easily in a well seasoned cast iron skillet, creating a crispy crust that rivals any wood-fired oven. Top with sauce, cheese, and whatever camping-friendly toppings you have on hand, then cover and cook over coals for restaurant-quality results\u2014the cast iron distributes heat evenly, so you don't need to worry about hot spots burning your crust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Apple

Iain Bagwell<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Dutch Oven Cobbler<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Combine fresh or canned fruit with a simple biscuit topping in your Dutch oven, then pile coals on the lid to create an oven effect that bakes the dessert to golden perfection. It's the ideal way to end a day of outdoor adventures, especially when served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream from your cooler\u2014you can even use a boxed cake mix instead of making biscuit topping from scratch for ultimate ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"

Greg Dupree<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Campfire Nachos<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Layer tortilla chips, cheese, and your favorite toppings in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, then cover and let the campfire heat melt everything into gooey perfection. The beauty of this crowd-pleaser is that everyone can customize their portion with whatever proteins, beans, or vegetables you've packed for the trip\u2014plus, it's impossible to mess up since you're basically just melting cheese over chips.<\/p>\n\n\n","post_title":"These Are Hands Down the Easiest (and Tastiest) Camping Meals","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"easiest-tastiest-camping-meals","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-06-26 17:13:55","post_modified_gmt":"2025-06-27 00:13:55","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/?p=190016","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":189535,"post_author":"97","post_date":"2025-06-05 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-06-05 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

If you're anything like me and put off making campsite reservations<\/a> til, well, now, rest assured there's still a chance to score a good one. While doing so with the state reservations system may be out of reach, Hipcamp<\/a> is an awesome option. And the San Francisco-based company just announced the inaugural list of its 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America Right Now<\/a> to help make the decision simpler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hipcamp analyzed data for more than 500,000 campsites nationwide and narrowed down their favorite spots across private land, public parks, and RV parks to celebrate standout spots in 30 states, including the Navajo Nation. And of course many of them are right here in the West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their list of the 50 best sites took into consideration several factors including positive camper reviews and ratings, regional trends, cultural shifts, and editorial debate. The winners are a robust list of campsites that boast scenic views, convenient amenities, smaller crowds, and unique experiences for solo travelers and families alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Couple

Getty Images<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThis list gives campers an opportunity to experience some off-the-beaten-path treasures and a few resilient campgrounds recovering from natural disaster devastation,\" aid Alyssa Ravasio, CEO and Founder of Hipcamp. \"By shining a light on our favorite campgrounds, we hope to make it easier than ever for campers<\/a> to find the right outdoor experience for them they will love.\"<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here's their full list:<\/p>\n\n\n\n