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!
Campfire Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites 🍩🔥
Looking for an easy, sweet treat to make on your next camping trip? These Campfire Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in delicious cinnamon sugar. They’re perfect for a chilly fall evening around the campfire or a fun breakfast at the campground!
The best part? You only need a few simple ingredients to make this family-friendly treat.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Vegetable oil, for frying
🍳 Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven
- Camp stove or campfire cooking grate
- Tongs or a slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Paper towels
- Resealable bag or shallow bowl for cinnamon sugar
🔥 Instructions
1. Prepare the dough.
Open the biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Cut each biscuit into four smaller pieces to create bite-sized donuts.
2. Mix the cinnamon sugar.
In a bowl or resealable bag, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set aside for coating the warm donut bites.
3. Heat the oil.
Add about 1–2 inches of vegetable oil to a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over a camp stove or carefully controlled cooking fire until the oil reaches approximately 350°F. Use a cooking thermometer to check the temperature.
4. Fry the donut bites.
Working in small batches, carefully place the dough pieces into the hot oil. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side, turning as needed, until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Add the cinnamon sugar.
Remove the donut bites with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain briefly. Brush or toss them with melted butter, then coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm.
6. Serve and enjoy!
Let the bites cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm around the campsite with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or apple cider!
🍂 Make Them Your Own
Want to add a little something extra? Try these easy variations:
- Apple pie bites: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar.
- Chocolate lovers: Serve with chocolate sauce for dipping.
- Maple cinnamon: Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving.
- Pumpkin spice: Replace some of the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired treat.
Camping tip: Hot oil requires extra care around children and open flames. Use a stable cooking surface, keep the pan away from direct flames, and have an adult handle the frying. Never leave hot oil unattended.
🏕️ A Sweet Addition to Your Camping Trip
Camping meals don’t have to be complicated to be memorable. These Campfire Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are a fun way to bring everyone together for a sweet treat after a day of exploring, hiking, or enjoying your time at Salina Campground.
Gather around the fire, share a plate of warm donut bites, and make a few more camping memories!
🔥👻 Spooky Campfire Stories to Tell Around the Fire
There’s something about sitting around a crackling campfire at night that makes every story a little creepier. The flames flicker, the woods get quiet, and suddenly every rustle in the trees sounds like something—or someone—is nearby.
If you’re camping this Halloween season, make your campfire part of the adventure with a few spooky stories. Whether you’re looking for a good scare or just some fun around the fire, these stories are sure to get everyone involved.
👻 The Footsteps Behind You
A camper was sitting alone by the fire late one night when they heard footsteps behind them.
Crunch. Crunch. Crunch.
They turned around.
Nothing.
They laughed it off and went back to staring into the fire.
A few minutes later:
Crunch. Crunch. Crunch.
This time, the footsteps sounded closer.
They grabbed a flashlight and shined it toward the trees—but there was nothing there.
Then came one final set of footsteps.
Crunch.
Right behind them.
They spun around…
And saw their friend sneaking up with a bag of marshmallows.
Sometimes the scariest stories have a very simple explanation! 😂🔥
🎃 The Empty Campsite
A family arrived at their campsite just before sunset and noticed something strange.
The campsite next to theirs was completely empty—but there was a chair sitting beside a cold fire pit.
As darkness fell, they heard the sound of someone laughing from that campsite.
They looked over.
Nothing.
A few minutes later, they heard a chair scrape across the ground.
Still nothing.
Then the chair slowly tipped over.
The family decided it was time to stay close to their own campfire.
The next morning, they woke up to discover that the campsite next door was occupied.
A camper had arrived late the night before.
He looked at them and said:
“Sorry if I scared you last night. My chair tipped over when I got up to get more firewood.”
Maybe not every campground mystery is a ghost story—but that doesn’t make it any less spooky!
🌲 The Whispering Woods
Two friends were camping deep in the woods when they started hearing someone whispering their names.
At first, they thought it was the wind.
Then they heard it again.
“Tom…”
They froze.
A few seconds later:
“Sarah…”
They grabbed their flashlights and looked around the campsite.
Nothing.
The whispering continued throughout the night.
The next morning, they discovered what had been making the sound.
A small creek ran behind their campsite, and the wind was blowing through the trees above it. The combination created an eerie sound that almost sounded like voices.
They had spent the entire night convinced something was watching them.
Turns out, it was just the woods playing tricks on them. 🌲👀
🔥 Make Your Own Campfire Stories
You don’t need a collection of classic ghost stories to have a spooky night around the fire. Make up your own!
Start with three simple ingredients:
🎃 A mysterious location — an abandoned cabin, dark trail, or forgotten campsite.
👻 Something unexplained — strange footsteps, a flickering light, or a voice in the distance.
😱 A surprising ending — maybe it’s a ghost… or maybe there’s a perfectly normal explanation.
Have everyone add one sentence to the story and see where it goes. You might end up with a terrifying tale—or a story that makes everyone laugh.
🏕️ Create Your Own Spooky Night
Turn your next fall camping trip into a Halloween adventure. Gather around the campfire, roast some marshmallows, tell your best scary stories, and see who can make it through the night without getting spooked by every sound in the woods.
Just remember…
If you hear footsteps behind you at Salina Campground, maybe check before you scream. 👀🔥
Happy camping—and happy haunting! 🎃👻
Easy Fall Breakfast for Campers 🍂🥞
Cool mornings at the campground call for a warm, hearty breakfast that’s easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of cleanup. Whether you’re cooking over the campfire, using a camp stove, or whipping something up in your RV kitchen, these simple fall breakfast ideas are perfect for starting a day of outdoor adventures.
🍎 Campfire Apple Cinnamon French Toast
A cozy twist on classic French toast! Add sliced apples, cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a breakfast that tastes like fall.
You’ll need:
- Bread
- Eggs
- Milk
- Cinnamon
- Sliced apples
- Butter
- Maple syrup
Dip the bread in a simple egg-and-milk mixture, cook it in a buttered skillet, and top with warm cinnamon apples and maple syrup.
🥓 One-Pan Breakfast Skillet
Keep things simple with a hearty skillet packed with breakfast favorites.
Try adding:
- Breakfast sausage or bacon
- Diced potatoes
- Eggs
- Bell peppers
- Onions
- Shredded cheese
Cook everything in one skillet for an easy, filling breakfast with minimal dishes.
🎃 Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Bring a little fall flavor to your campsite with pumpkin pancakes. Use your favorite pancake mix and stir in a little pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla.
Top with butter and maple syrup for an easy breakfast everyone will love.
🍂 Make Breakfast Part of the Camping Experience
One of the best parts of fall camping is slowing down and enjoying the little things. Pour a cup of coffee, bundle up, gather around the picnic table, and enjoy a warm breakfast before heading out for the day’s adventures at Salina Campground!
Good food just tastes better around the campsite. ❤️🔥
Beginner’s Guide to Hiking 🥾🌲
Hiking is a great way to get outside, enjoy nature, and add a little adventure to your camping trip. If you’re new to hiking, you don’t need fancy equipment or years of experience to get started. A little preparation goes a long way!
🥾 Start With an Easy Trail
Choose a short, well-marked trail for your first hike. Look for relatively flat terrain and a distance that feels manageable. You can always work your way up to longer or more challenging trails.
🎒 Pack the Essentials
Even for a short hike, bring a few basics:
- Water 💧
- Snacks
- Phone
- Small first-aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Map or trail guide
- Extra layer of clothing
👟 Wear the Right Shoes
Comfortable, supportive shoes with good traction can make a huge difference. Hiking boots aren’t always necessary for beginner trails, but avoid shoes with slippery soles.
🌦️ Check the Weather
Take a look at the forecast before heading out. Weather can change quickly, especially on longer hikes. If storms or extreme temperatures are expected, consider choosing another day.
🐻 Respect Wildlife
You’re a visitor in their home! Keep your distance from wildlife, never feed animals, and keep food securely packed away.
🌿 Stay on the Trail
Stick to marked paths whenever possible. Staying on the trail helps protect plants and wildlife while also helping you avoid getting lost.
👥 Tell Someone Your Plans
Let someone know where you’re going and approximately when you expect to return—especially if you’re hiking alone.
📸 Take Your Time
Hiking isn’t a race! Stop to enjoy the scenery, take pictures, listen to the birds, and appreciate the little things along the trail.
🏕️ Make It Part of Your Camping Trip
One of the best parts of camping is having nature right outside your door. Whether you’re taking a quick morning walk or exploring a nearby trail, hiking is an easy way to turn a campground stay into a little adventure.
Start small, pack smart, and enjoy the journey at Salina Campground. Happy hiking! 🥾🌲
Pumpkin Spice Campfire Treats
Nothing says fall quite like pumpkin spice! 🍂🎃 These easy campfire treats are warm, gooey, and perfect for enjoying around the fire. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn your campsite into the coziest fall dessert spot!
Ingredients
- 1 tube refrigerated cinnamon rolls
- ½ cup pumpkin purée
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- ¼ cup cream cheese frosting or cinnamon roll icing
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
1. Prepare the pumpkin filling
In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined.
2. Build your treats
Cut pieces of aluminum foil large enough to wrap each cinnamon roll. Place one cinnamon roll in the center of each piece of foil and slightly flatten it.
Spoon a little of the pumpkin mixture onto each cinnamon roll. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
3. Wrap and cook
Bring the edges of the foil together and seal each packet tightly. Place the foil packets over hot campfire coals or on a grill grate over medium heat.
Cook for about 10–15 minutes, carefully checking to make sure the cinnamon rolls are cooked through.
4. Add the finishing touch
Carefully open the foil packets and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with the included cinnamon roll icing or your favorite cream cheese frosting.
A Cozy Campfire Favorite
These Pumpkin Spice Campfire Treats are the perfect addition to a fall camping trip. They’re easy to make, fun to share, and even better when enjoyed around the campfire on a cool autumn evening! 🎃🔥
So grab your ingredients, gather around the fire at Salina Campground, and enjoy a little taste of fall under the stars! 🍂🏕️
Camping Etiquette: Be a Great Neighbor
Camping is all about enjoying the outdoors, relaxing, and making memories—but being a great neighbor can make the experience even better for everyone around you. A little courtesy goes a long way at the campground!
Keep Noise at a Respectful Level
Whether you’re enjoying music, playing games, or sitting around the campfire, remember that not everyone keeps the same schedule. Keep voices and music at a reasonable volume, especially during quiet hours.
Respect Your Campsite
Treat your campsite—and the campground around you—with care. Keep your area clean, dispose of trash properly, and leave your site just as you found it.
Be Mindful of Shared Spaces
Campground amenities are meant for everyone. Whether you’re using the pool, bathhouses, laundry facilities, playgrounds, or other common areas, be courteous and give others their turn.
Keep Pets Under Control
Pets are part of the camping family! Keep them leashed when required, clean up after them, and make sure they’re not disturbing neighboring campers.
Give Your Neighbors Some Space
It’s fun to meet fellow campers, but remember that everyone is there for their own getaway. Be friendly and welcoming while respecting other campers’ privacy and personal space.
Follow Campground Rules
Rules are there to help keep the campground safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the campground’s guidelines and follow them during your stay.
Leave Nature Better Than You Found It
Pick up after yourself, don’t damage plants or property, and dispose of waste properly. A clean campground is a happier campground!
The best camping neighbors are friendly, respectful, and considerate. By doing your part, you help create a campground where everyone can relax, have fun, and enjoy the great outdoors. Remember these tips next time you stay at Salina Campground!🏕️🌲
Campfire Cinnamon Roll Skewers
There’s something special about ending a day at the campground gathered around the campfire with a warm, gooey dessert. If you’re looking for an easy recipe that’s fun to make and even better to eat, Campfire Cinnamon Roll Skewers are the perfect choice!
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Cooking spray or a little butter (optional)
- Aluminum foil (optional for easier cooking)
Optional Toppings
- Extra icing
- Powdered sugar
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Caramel sauce
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries
Utensils Needed
- Campfire or fire pit
- Roasting skewers
- Tongs
- Small plate or tray
- Knife or kitchen scissors
- Napkins
Instructions
- Build a campfire and allow it to burn until you have a bed of hot coals with a gentle flame.
- Open the can of cinnamon rolls and separate each roll.
- Carefully thread one cinnamon roll onto a skewer, securing it so it won’t slide off.
- Hold the skewer over the hot coals, rotating frequently so the cinnamon roll cooks evenly.
- Roast for about 8–12 minutes, or until golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center.
- Remove from the fire and let cool for a minute.
- Drizzle with the included icing and add any extra toppings you’d like.
- Enjoy while warm!
Whether you’re relaxing after a day of hiking, swimming, or exploring at Salina Campground, these Campfire Cinnamon Roll Skewers are an easy way to end the evening on a sweet note. Gather around the fire, roast your cinnamon rolls to golden perfection, and enjoy a simple camping dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite.
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. 🌙🏕️✨
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!
