Heres Some Camping Tips & Tricks at Your Fingertips
Our Salina Campground Blog is the information you need to make your next camping trip in Kansas even more enjoyable. From RV and camping tips and tricks, to amazing campfire recipes, to advice on planning your next trip in Salina, KS... the information below is here to help you. And please, feel free to comment and share your experiences, knowledge and favorite recipes. At Salina Campground, we are a family and all here to help each other enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest!
Decorating Your Seasonal Site for Summer: Easy Ideas to Make Your Campsite Feel Like Home
One of the best parts of having a seasonal campsite is creating a space that feels like your own summer retreat. Whether you spend every weekend at the campground or stay for weeks at a time, a few thoughtful decorations can transform your site into a cozy, inviting getaway for family and friends.
Here are some fun and practical ideas to decorate your seasonal campsite this summer.
Create a Comfortable Outdoor Living Space
Your campsite is more than just a place to park your camper—it’s where you’ll spend most of your time outdoors. Start by creating a comfortable seating area with:
- Outdoor chairs or a patio set
- A picnic table with a colorful tablecloth
- Outdoor rugs to define your space
- Side tables for drinks and snacks
- Throw pillows made with weather-resistant fabric
Adding comfortable seating encourages everyone to relax around the fire or enjoy a peaceful morning with coffee.
Brighten Things Up with Outdoor Lighting
Lighting instantly makes your campsite feel warm and welcoming after the sun goes down.
Popular options include:
- String lights around your awning
- Solar pathway lights
- Lanterns on tables
- LED candles for a cozy glow
- Decorative light stakes along walkways
Not only do lights add ambiance, but they also make your campsite safer at night.
Add Color with Flowers and Plants
Nothing says summer quite like colorful flowers.
Consider decorating with:
- Hanging flower baskets
- Potted annuals
- Window boxes
- Decorative planters
- Small herb gardens for cooking
Choose plants that can handle the summer heat and are easy to water throughout the season.
Personalize Your Campsite
Give your seasonal site some personality with decorations that show off your family’s style.
Ideas include:
- Personalized campsite signs
- Decorative garden flags
- Wind chimes
- Seasonal wreaths
- Fun outdoor artwork
- Welcome mats
These small touches make your campsite feel uniquely yours.
Make Your Fire Pit the Gathering Spot
The fire pit is often the heart of every campsite.
Make it even more inviting by adding:
- Adirondack chairs
- Firewood storage racks
- Outdoor blankets for cooler evenings
- Marshmallow roasting sticks
- Small side tables for snacks and drinks
A well-designed fire pit area becomes the perfect place for making memories.
Keep It Organized
Decorating doesn’t just mean making your site look nice—it should also help keep things tidy.
Helpful storage solutions include:
- Outdoor storage benches
- Deck boxes
- Hanging organizers
- Storage hooks for towels and gear
- Shelving inside screened canopies
An organized campsite feels larger and is much easier to enjoy.
Create Fun Spaces for Kids
If your family camps with children, dedicate an area just for them.
Ideas include:
- Outdoor games
- Chalkboard signs
- Bubble stations
- Toy bins
- Picnic blankets for crafts
- Hammocks for reading or relaxing
Giving kids their own space helps keep everyone entertained throughout the day.
Decorate for Summer Holidays
Celebrate the season with festive decorations for holidays like Labor Day!
Swap out flags, banners, table décor, and wreaths to match the occasion while keeping your campsite fresh all summer long.
Add Shade and Comfort
Summer afternoons can get warm, so don’t forget ways to stay cool.
Consider adding:
- Pop-up canopies
- Shade sails
- Outdoor umbrellas
- Portable fans
- Privacy screens
These additions help make your outdoor space comfortable even on the hottest days.
Keep Safety in Mind
While decorating, always remember campground safety.
- Keep walkways clear.
- Avoid blocking roads or neighboring sites.
- Secure decorations against wind.
- Use outdoor-rated extension cords and lighting.
- Keep decorations away from fire pits and grills.
A safe campsite is one everyone can enjoy.
Make It Your Summer Home Away from Home
Decorating your seasonal campsite is all about creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you prefer a simple setup with a few colorful flowers or a fully decorated outdoor living space, every personal touch helps make your campsite feel like home.
This summer, have fun adding your own style, enjoy the outdoors, and create a seasonal site at Salina Campground you’ll love coming back to all season long.
🍫Red, White & Blue S’mores: A Festive Campfire Twist for the 4th of July
Nothing says campground summer like a crackling fire, sticky fingers, and a classic s’more—but for the 4th of July, we’re giving this favorite a patriotic upgrade! These Red, White & Blue S’mores are easy to make, fun for all ages, and perfect for celebrating Independence Day at the campground.
🔥 Ingredients
- Graham crackers
- Marshmallows
- White chocolate bars or white chocolate squares
- Strawberries (sliced)
- Blueberries (optional but perfect for the theme)
🍓 How to Make Them
- Roast your marshmallow over the campfire until golden and gooey.
- Place a piece of white chocolate on a graham cracker.
- Add your hot marshmallow right on top so it starts to melt the chocolate.
- Add a few strawberry slices (and blueberries if you’d like a true red, white & blue look).
- Top with another graham cracker, press gently, and enjoy!
🎆 Campground Tip
Want less mess? Assemble everything ahead of time in foil packets and warm them near the fire for a melty, easy-to-serve dessert.
Why It Works for the 4th
This treat keeps the classic s’more experience but adds a festive twist that fits right into your Fourth of July camping celebration. It’s quick, no-fuss, and perfect for families, kids, and late-night firepit snacks after fireworks at Salina Campground!
Things to Listen for Around the Campground After Dark
When the sun goes down and the campfire begins to fade, the campground comes alive in a different way. While daytime camping is filled with laughter, games, and outdoor adventures, nighttime offers a peaceful soundtrack of nature. Taking a few moments to listen can help you appreciate the sights and sounds that make camping such a unique experience.
Crickets and Katydids
One of the most common nighttime sounds is the chorus of crickets and katydids. These insects create a steady background melody that many campers associate with warm summer evenings. Their chirping can be relaxing and is often one of the first sounds you’ll notice after dark.
Frogs Near Water
If your campsite is near a pond, lake, or creek, you may hear frogs calling to one another. Their croaks and trills can range from soft and subtle to loud and unmistakable. Each species has its own unique call, making it fun to guess how many different frogs are nearby.
Owls in the Trees
Owls are most active at night and can often be heard long before they’re seen. Listen for their distinctive hoots echoing through the trees. Hearing an owl call in the distance is a memorable camping experience and a reminder of the wildlife that shares the campground.
Rustling Leaves
Not every nighttime sound comes from above. Small animals such as rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, and other wildlife may move through the underbrush, causing leaves and branches to rustle. While it can be surprising at first, these sounds are usually harmless and part of the natural nighttime environment.
The Crackle of a Campfire
Few sounds are as comforting as a crackling campfire. The popping and snapping of burning wood create the perfect soundtrack for sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, or simply relaxing under the stars.
Wind Through the Trees
A gentle breeze moving through the treetops creates a calming whoosh that can help campers unwind after a busy day. On still nights, even the slightest wind can create beautiful natural sounds throughout the campground.
Night Birds and Other Wildlife
Depending on the season and location, you may hear whip-poor-wills, nighthawks, or other nocturnal birds. Coyotes may occasionally call in the distance, while insects and other wildlife add to the nighttime symphony.
Fellow Campers Making Memories
One of the best sounds at a campground is hearing families and friends enjoying time together. Quiet conversations around campfires, laughter from nearby campsites, and the clinking of roasting sticks are all reminders of the memories being made.
Take a Moment to Listen
The next time you’re camping, put away your phone, sit by the fire, and simply listen. The sounds of nature and the campground after dark create a peaceful atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s one of the many reasons campers return year after year to enjoy life outdoors.
The best nighttime entertainment doesn’t come from a screen—it comes from the sounds of Salina Campground all around you. 🌙🏕️✨
Banana Bread Pancakes: A Cozy Campground Breakfast Favorite 🍌🥞
There’s nothing better than waking up at the campground to the smell of breakfast cooking on the griddle. If you’re looking for a fun twist on traditional pancakes, these Banana Bread Pancakes combine the comforting flavor of homemade banana bread with the fluffy goodness of pancakes. They’re easy to make at your campsite and are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 egg
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Optional Toppings
- Sliced bananas
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mashed banana, egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Heat a lightly greased griddle, skillet, or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to set, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Campground Cooking Tips
- Mash the banana and mix the dry ingredients before your trip to save time at the campsite.
- Keep toppings in small containers or resealable bags for easy transport.
- Cook on a flat-top griddle for larger batches when feeding a crowd.
Whether you’re camping with family, friends, or enjoying a peaceful weekend getaway, this simple breakfast recipe is the perfect way to start your day at Salina Campground! 🏕️🍌🥞
How to Make Your Campsite Cozy 🌲✨
A simple guide for a more comfortable, relaxing campground stay
A cozy campsite doesn’t require a lot of gear—it’s all about creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and easy to relax in after a day outdoors.
Start with lighting. Once the sun goes down, lighting completely changes the mood of your site. String lights, lanterns, or solar-powered lights around your setup instantly make everything feel softer and more welcoming. It also helps define your space and makes nighttime movement easier.
Next, focus on comfort. Bring outdoor rugs to keep dirt down and add warmth underfoot. Layer in blankets and extra camp chairs so everyone has a comfortable place to sit. Small touches like throw pillows or padded seating can make a big difference during longer stays.
Set up a simple “hangout zone” around your fire pit or main gathering area. Arrange chairs in a circle so everyone can talk easily, and keep a small table nearby for snacks, drinks, or s’mores supplies. This naturally becomes the heart of your campsite.
Organization also helps create that cozy feeling. Keep gear neatly stored in bins or designated areas so your space doesn’t feel cluttered. A clean campsite feels more peaceful and enjoyable throughout your stay.
Finally, add your personal touch—whether it’s a favorite campfire snack, music playing in the background, or citronella candles to keep bugs away. These small details help turn a basic site into a space that feels like your own little outdoor getaway.
With just a few thoughtful touches, your campsite at Salina Campground can go from simple to cozy in no time—making your trip more relaxing, comfortable, and memorable. 🌙🔥
Walking Chili Dogs
Nothing says campground comfort food quite like a warm, messy, easy-to-make meal you can eat right by the fire. Walking Chili Dogs are perfect for camping because they require minimal cleanup, are customizable for the whole family, and can be eaten straight from the bag or bowl!
Ingredients
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 can chili (with or without beans)
- 1 bag corn chips or small individual chip bags (like Fritos)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Mustard or ketchup (optional)
Camp Cooking Supplies
- Grill grate or campfire roasting sticks
- Small saucepan or cast-iron skillet
- Spoon for serving
- Paper bowls or foil boats (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Hot Dogs
Place hot dogs over the campfire on roasting sticks or grill them on a grate until heated through and slightly charred.
2. Heat the Chili
Pour chili into a saucepan or skillet and warm over the campfire or camp stove until hot, stirring occasionally.
3. Build Your Walking Chili Dog
You can make these two ways:
Classic style:
Place hot dog in a bun, top with warm chili, shredded cheese, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and desired condiments.
Walking style:
Open a small bag of chips, crush slightly, and top chips with sliced hot dog, chili, cheese, and toppings right inside the bag for an easy handheld meal.
4. Serve & Enjoy
Eat right away while warm and melty around the campfire.
Tips for Campers
- Prep toppings at home and store in small containers in your cooler.
- Wrap cooked hot dogs in foil to keep warm.
- Let everyone build their own for an easy family dinner.
Whether you’re spending the day hiking, fishing, or relaxing at Salina Campground, this easy campground meal is always a hit!
🌎 How to Help the Earth While Camping This Earth Day
Spending time at the campground is one of the best ways to reconnect with nature—but it also comes with a responsibility to protect it. This Earth Day is the perfect reminder that even small actions can make a big impact when we’re outdoors.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or the whole season, here’s how you can keep the campground beautiful for everyone who comes after you.
🌿 Start with the Basics: Leave No Trace
The golden rule of camping is simple—leave it better than you found it. Clean up your campsite before you leave, pick up any trash you see, and make sure nothing gets left behind. Even the smallest items can harm wildlife or take years to break down.
♻️ Cut Down on Waste
Camping doesn’t have to mean extra garbage. Bring reusable water bottles, plates, and utensils instead of single-use plastics. It not only helps the environment, but it also makes packing up easier at the end of your trip.
🦌 Respect Wildlife
Seeing animals in their natural habitat is one of the best parts of camping—but it’s important to keep your distance. Feeding wildlife or getting too close can disrupt their natural behavior and put both you and the animals at risk.
🚶♂️ Stay on Trails
It might be tempting to explore off-path, but sticking to designated trails helps protect plants and prevents erosion. Those trails are there for a reason—using them keeps the ecosystem healthy.
💧 Be Mindful of Resources
Water and electricity at campgrounds are shared resources. Use only what you need, turn things off when you’re not using them, and be conscious of your impact.
🔥 Practice Safe Campfires
Campfires are a campground staple, but they should always be handled responsibly. Use designated fire rings, keep fires small, and always make sure they’re completely out before walking away.
🌱 Choose Eco-Friendly Products
From soap to bug spray, what you use outdoors matters. Biodegradable and environmentally friendly products help reduce pollution and keep surrounding water sources clean.
🚗 Travel Smarter
If you’re camping with friends or family, try carpooling or combining trips into one. Fewer vehicles mean less pollution and a smaller carbon footprint.
👍 Go the Extra Mile
Want to make an even bigger impact? Pick up litter that isn’t yours or encourage others to follow eco-friendly habits. A cleaner campground benefits everyone.
🌼 Final Thought
Camping gives us the chance to slow down, unplug, and enjoy the outdoors—but it’s also a chance to give back. This Earth Day, take a few extra steps to care for the environment so these spaces stay just as beautiful for future campers at Salina Campground!
🍓 Campground Recipe: Easy Fruit Kabobs
There’s nothing better than a fresh, simple snack while enjoying the outdoors—and these fruit kabobs are just that! Perfect for kids and adults alike, they’re quick to make, refreshing on a warm day, and a fun activity right at your campsite.
🌈 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No cooking required 🙌
- Kid-friendly & fun to assemble
- Light and refreshing for warm campground days
- Easy to customize with your favorite fruits
🛒 Ingredients
- Strawberries 🍓
- Pineapple chunks 🍍
- Grapes 🍇
- Melon (cantaloupe or honeydew) 🍈
- Bananas 🍌
- Wooden skewers
Optional:
- Yogurt or chocolate for dipping 🍫
- Marshmallows for a fun twist
🔪 Instructions
- Wash and prep all your fruit. Cut into bite-sized pieces if needed.
- Take a skewer and start layering your fruit in any pattern you like—get creative with colors! 🌈
- Repeat until all your skewers are filled.
- Serve immediately or keep chilled in a cooler until ready to enjoy.
🔥 Campground Tips
- Prep fruit ahead of time at home for quick assembly at your site
- Keep fruit in a cooler to stay fresh longer
- Let kids build their own kabobs—it’s half the fun!
🍫 Fun Variations
- Dessert Kabobs: Add brownies or pound cake pieces
- S’mores Kabobs: Strawberries + marshmallows + chocolate drizzle
- Breakfast Kabobs: Pair with yogurt and granola
🏕️ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hanging by the fire, relaxing at your site, or looking for a quick snack between adventures, fruit kabobs are an easy win. Fresh, fun, and perfect for campground living at Salina Campground!
How to Host a Themed Camping Trip (80s, Cowboy, Pirate & More!)
Camping is already a blast—but adding a theme? That’s when the memories really start to stick. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with friends or hosting an event at your campground, a themed camping trip takes things to the next level.
Here’s how to pull it off without the stress 👇
🎯 Pick Your Theme
Start with a theme that’s easy for everyone to get into. Some crowd favorites:
- 80s Throwback – neon colors, big hair, and classic hits
- Cowboy/Western – flannels, boots, and campfire country music
- Pirate Adventure – eye patches, treasure hunts, and “ahoy matey!”
- Luau/Tropical – leis, bright shirts, and island vibes
- Camp Olympics – friendly competitions and team spirit
👕 Encourage Costumes
The more people participate, the more fun it is. Let guests know ahead of time so they can pack accordingly.
Pro tip: Keep it simple—bandanas, sunglasses, or themed t-shirts go a long way!
🎶 Set the Vibe with Music & Decor
A few small touches can totally transform your campsite:
- Bluetooth speaker with a themed playlist
- String lights, flags, or props
- Matching tablecloths or campsite decorations
Each theme should feel different when you walk into it!
🔥 Plan Themed Activities
This is where things really come alive:
- 80s Night: Dance party or trivia
- Cowboy Theme: Horseshoe toss or “best chili” contest
- Pirate Theme: Treasure hunt around the campground
- Olympics: Relay races, tug-of-war, and games
Keep it light, fun, and something everyone can join.
🍔 Match the Food to the Theme
Food is half the fun of any camping trip:
- Cowboy: BBQ, baked beans, foil packet meals
- Pirate: “Treasure” snack mix, grilled fish
- 80s: nostalgic snacks, pizza, soda
- Luau: grilled pineapple, kabobs
Bonus points if you give your food fun themed names!
📸 Capture the Memories
Set up a small photo area with props or signs.
You’ll get tons of share-worthy pictures—and your guests will love looking back on them.
🏕 Keep It Simple & Fun
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s creating an experience. Even a few small themed details can turn a regular camping trip into something unforgettable.
Final Thought
A themed camping trip is one of the easiest ways to bring people together, spark creativity, and make your camping trip at Salina Campground stand out. So pick a theme, invite your crew, and get ready for a weekend full of laughs and memories.
🏕️ Dutch Oven Monkey Bread
Sweet, sticky, and perfect for the campsite, Dutch oven monkey bread is an easy crowd-pleaser for breakfast or dessert around the fire.
Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prep the Dutch oven:
Lightly grease the inside of your Dutch oven. - Cut the biscuits:
Open the biscuit cans and cut each biscuit into quarters. - Coat with cinnamon sugar:
In a bowl or bag, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Toss the biscuit pieces in the mixture until well coated. - Layer in the Dutch oven:
Place the coated biscuit pieces into the Dutch oven. Sprinkle in nuts if using. - Make the sauce:
Melt the butter in a small pan or over the fire. Stir in the brown sugar until combined. - Pour over biscuits:
Pour the butter and brown sugar mixture evenly over the biscuit pieces. - Bake:
Cover and cook with hot coals (about 350°F) for 25–30 minutes, placing some coals on top of the lid. - Serve:
Let cool slightly, then pull apart and enjoy!
There’s nothing better than waking up at Salina Campground to the smell of Dutch oven monkey bread cooking over the fire! 🔥🍞 Sweet, gooey, and perfect for sharing around the campsite!
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!
