There are many snacks that lend themselves well to camping. Children love the special food and preparation only a camping trip can offer. If you or your child has special needs, camping snacks can be modified to fit your outing. Here are a few of the very favorite camping treats my children loved when growing up.
- S’mores (of course – doesn’t everyone love them?)
- Tonka or Pudgie pies (called different names in different areas)
- Rice Cereal Treats
- Toasted Marshmallows
- Hot dogs on a stick
- Hamburgers
- Grilled cheese
- Fresh fruit
- Pizza
- Nuts and seeds
- Dried beef jerky
- Granola bars
- Granola
- Dried fruit snacks
To make the camping experience fun be sure to have some basic campfire tools along, including hot dog forks, Tonka Pie makers and heavy-duty potholders.
Hot Dog Forks
- Hot dog forks are two-pronged; a fork that may be used to roast hot dogs or marshmallows over a flame.
Tonka Pie Makers (also called Pudgie Pie Makers)
- These cast iron or aluminum cooking utensils resemble a two-sided slice of bread with a long handle. They are, in fact, made for bread and you can make delicious sandwiches and desserts in them.
To have a good experience around the campfire practice safety first. Use seasoned wood and build a steady, even fire. Watch younger children so that they don’t fall into the fire or get too close. Be sure you have a first aid kit on hand for emergencies.
Campfire S’Mores
- Graham crackers
- Chocolate bars (plain are best)
- Marshmallows
- Hot Dog Fork (for roasting marshmallows)
Place regular-sized marshmallow on hot dog fork. Cook to desired doneness. One person can hold two graham cracker wafers topped with a square of a chocolate bar while you slide the toasted marshmallow off onto the cracker. Press graham crackers together and enjoy!
Tonka Pies (or Pudgie Pies)
- Butter or margarine
- Bread
- Filling (see ideas below)
- Tonka Pie Maker
The ideas are endless for these treats. To make a Tonka Pie butter two slices of bread on one side. Put the buttered side down (one in each side of the Tonka Pie maker). Add about 2 tablespoons of filling and close and lock Tonka Pie maker. Hold over hot coals on one side for about two minutes; flip and cook the other side. Be careful removing from the fire, as the metal gets very hot! Slide out of maker onto a plate, let cool and enjoy. The list is endless and although my family likes dessert best, pizzas are also a favorite. Here is a list of canned fillings you could use:
- Fruit pie filling – cherry, apple, peach, and blueberry – yum!
- Beef Stew – for a filling main dish
- Pizza sauce, pepperoni and some shredded mozzarella cheese for pizzas
- Sliced cheese and cooked bacon (grilled bacon and cheese sandwich)
- Tuna and cheese (tuna melt)
- Cooked hamburger and blue cheese
- Pastrami and sauerkraut with Thousand Island dressing (Reuben)
- Peanut butter and banana (grilled peanut butter and banana)
As you see, the opportunities are endless. Try your own ideas and let me know the results. Most of all have fun as you experiment with new recipes and find things you and your family like while camping. It’s the ultimate family experience!
