Campsite Cooking Tips - by Emma Snow.

One of the greatest experiences of being human is to be out in nature. There is just something about being in the fresh open air of the wilderness that makes a person feel more alive, more grounded.

The stresses and responsibilities of life lessen in the great outdoors and living is less complicated. After a long day hiking or on the river, even if exhaustion is felt, one still feels refreshed and invigorated.

Along with the hard work and exercise of an outdoor lifestyle comes a hearty appetite, and a good meal is a cherished by treat.

Food tastes better when enjoyed in nature. The supper that is tasty is all the more satisfying. It's appreciated more enthusiastically. A cook can really get rave reviews at a camp. With some thought and a little preparation, a great meal can be served, one that can increase the quality of the outdoor experience.

Here are some camping-cooking suggestions.

The first thing to note is that all three meals are not created equal...

Breakfast and dinner are the meals that require more time. The first meal should be filling, one that will stay with you all day. Whole grains probably fit this requirement the best. (We like bacon and egg. The smell will make your fellow campers drool. - editor's note)

Even if you're not normally a cook, a campsite is a good place to put in some effort and time. With all the energy burned exercising, you will truly appreciate a meal that will fill you up and keep you going.

Oatmeal is the first option. For those who want something hot, with little effort, oatmeal fits the bill. It will "stick to your ribs" and keep you full longer. But due to its popularity and frequency, it can get a little old. So why not spruce it up a little? Add dried fruit into the mix. Raisins seem to be the old stand by, but there is a plethora of other choices. Any fruit is an option. Try mangos, apples, strawberries etc. with a little dry milk mixed in. Your regular old oatmeal just turned into fruit and cream, much more satisfying.

Pancakes

If you are a little more adventurous pull out the pan for your camp stove. Whole wheat pancakes with freeze dried fruit are amazing. Even syrup is not necessary for these delicious creations. They will be the hit of the camp so be sure to bring plenty. When planning pancakes bring oil in a spill proof container and pour a little into the pan before each cake (about 1 tsp). A non-stick pan is recommended for pancakes. These cakes are filling and delicious. Freeze dried fruit is a nice addition over pancakes because they hydrate as they cook and return to a fresh-like berries condition, rather than staying chewy in your pancakes like dried ones would.

Prepackaged pancakes are fine for camping, but you can make your own, too. Not only will it be cheaper, but it will last for many trips (and even at home). Mix up the pancake's dry ingredients at home (including dry milk and dry eggs) then add water when you cook them at camp. Large cans (#10 size) of berries can be purchased and brought with.

GettingOutside Lite Lunch

During the day when you are on the river canoeing, or in the woods hiking, you probably don't want to stop and unpack all the gear for lunch. This is a good time to have trail mix, granola bars and jerky.

Dinner is another time that it's worth putting in some extra effort. Meals in the can are not recommended, especially because of the trash it creates. What gets brought in, gets brought out - either by you or animals. Instead try a box of pasta with dry packs of sauce and then add a can of tuna or chicken. Dried vegetables added to this meal would be delicious. Just rehydrate them in a little water for 10 minutes or so before cooking, and you have an entire dinner in one dish.

Parting Tips

A few last notes to make. Do not pack your fuel in the same bags with your food. If the fuel leaks, the food will not be good. If you are going to make something new on your trip, try it at home first. Better to learn when you have more food to try again. Instead of bringing trash bags bring plastic grocery bags with you. They are smaller and even if you use a couple, because of their size, they can be stuff in corners easily. Another suggestions about these plastic bags is that it is easy to double up on them for your trash to prevents leaks and such. Do not sacrifice food on your trip, make it delicious and you will enjoy the outdoors even more.

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Emma Snow is a gourmet and freelance writer. Writing for Gourmet Living http://www.gourmet-living.com and BBQ Shop http://www.bbq-shop.net .

Be smart and safe. Use common sense with any outdoor activity.

The information and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of GettingOutside.com. The information provided in this article is for entertainment purposes only. If you have lingering questions or concerns, consult an expert.