Generations of Camping

The love for camping is a beautiful hobby to enjoy. It’s an even more beautiful hobby when passed down from generation to generation. Andy and I both grew up camping around Minnesota with our families.  We grew up in families who appreciate the outdoors and found quality time in packing up the van, pitching tents, and roasting s’mores around the campfire. I know my grandparents are part of the reason I am the outdoor/camping lover I am today. So, we planned a camping weekend with my grandparents. We changed up the regular camping routine of the backcountry and we immersed ourselves into a different style of camping… camper culture.

The majority of campsites had trailers/RVs/campers set up. We were 1 of 2 total tents I spotted at the campgrounds. The main clientele this park serves is families, and it’s a plus that it’s not too far from the Twin Cities. At parks like this one, most people that bring their campers or RVs are creating home for the entire camping season. It’s a small community that is created for about 4 months of the year.

One thing we don’t need to worry about when car camping is going hungry. When backpack camping, one worry I often have is “Will there be enough food for the weekend?” Since we need to consider food weight along with all of the other camping materials, we plan our meals out precisely.  We were eating nearly all night between brats, corn on the cob, bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers, chips, potato salad, crackers/cheese/salami,  pie toasters over the campfire, and apple cider.  Here’s a look into our feast from the weekend.

We spent the days playing ladder ball, enjoying food around the fire, and sharing different camping stories/memories. We also had a “show and tell” with some of the backpacking gear we use. Grandpa and Grandma hadn’t seen anything like a backpacker’s stove before. See the video demonstration here.  Campers of all kinds can be connected. No matter the style of camping you do, sharing the materials used is an enriching experience.

As we sat at the campground on Sunday morning, enjoying our breakfast we notice the fall colors changing right in front of our eyes. Fall is a magical time of year and it’s always so short so it’s important to get out there and enjoy it while here!

Breakfast was a feast… Grandma made French toast in the frying pan and sausage over the stove in the camper. She even brought a coffee maker. Andy and I are used to making coffee backpacker’s style and having a one-pan breakfast. Our breakfast felt like a 5-star hotel experience! Dinner did as well. We had a buffet line set up right outside the camper for dinner.

Camping is an experience anyone can enjoy no matter your age. Age is just a number. Get out there, appreciate the outdoors, and take in the camping experience. If you aren’t a camper, take in whatever it is that you love. Life is short and it’s important to embrace what we have.

Peace, love, and hike thru life!

Andy and Sarah