Parent Magazine St Johns April 2022 | Page 27

When ?
Reservations usually have to be made at campgrounds a year ahead of time . Often , in addition to the nightly fees , you ’ ll have to pay an additional campground entrance fee . Be sure to arrive at the campground area as early in the day as possible . It ’ s no fun trying to set up camp in the dark !
What to do ?
Taking some time to plan for this first camping adventure will pay dividends . First of all , plan activities for the drive . A small game to play in the car or games such as “ find the license plate ” will keep children occupied during the drive and avoid the “ Are we there yets ?” Plan quick and easy meals and include disposable plates and cups , etc . If you really want to be more “ green ,” then make the cooking and cleanup , including washing up dishes , part of the fun . Perhaps there could be partners , one adult and one child responsible for each meal . Remember how much fun the evening campfires can be with songs , stories and special treats , like s ’ mores . Some of the larger campgrounds have park rangers who will lead daytime activities or have evening slideshows and talks . Be prepared if the weather turns bad . Simple raingear can be a lifesaver as well as games and activities to do inside the tent if necessary .
Enjoy
When you ’ ve done all your planning , be sure to take along plenty of enthusiasm . Children will pick up on the fun if you are eager and ready to have fun too . Be creative — maybe you ’ ll see some wildlife , catch a trout or spot a certain bird or butterfly . Once again , knowing your children ’ s hobbies and interests may help you to plan things they will be sure to enjoy . This is also a great time to share your areas of expertise . Do you know all about wildflowers or can you teach the children how to paddle a canoe ?
Now you ’ re all set . Be sure to take along a camera to document all the fun . Kids are certain to enjoy the camping event and all the stories and memories of their first camping experience .
Quick and Easy Meals for Campers
English Muffin Pizzas : Use English muffins , squeezable pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella . Toast muffin halves on oiled grill . Turn over and spread with sauce , cheese and any toppings your family enjoys . Serve when the cheese melts .
Grilled PBJ : This one is a cinch . Choose a hearty bread and be generous with the fillings . Butter on both sides and toast on your grill . They ’ ll stick to your ribs .
Coffee Can Stew : Cut stew meat into small pieces . Place meat in a clean coffee can with 2T butter . Brown meat over the fire . Add red potatoes , baby carrots and onions with 2T more butter . Cover with foil and place in the fire for 20 minutes .
Banana Boats : Slit unpeeled bananas lengthwise without cutting through . Fill the opening with mini-marshmallows and chocolate chips . Sprinkle with brown sugar , wrap in foil and place either on a grill or in the coals of your fire . They ’ re ready in just seven minutes .
Eggs in a Hat : You may want a change from morning cereal or pancakes . Try this fun recipe . Grease a hot griddle . Cut a hole in pieces of bread using a cup or glass . Toast the bread on both sides and crack an egg in the hole . When the egg is solid , flip the bread . Top with a slice of your favorite cheese and a slice of ham . Serve when cheese is nicely melted .
APRIL 2022 | 23