Gobble Up These Cozy Tips for a Home-Away-from-Home Holiday
Thanksgiving’s coming up, and you’re probably thinking about how to make it special this year. Why not try something different?
Picture this: you’re in your RV, surrounded by nature, with the people you love most.
RV camping for Thanksgiving isn’t just a trend – it’s a chance to mix things up and make memories that’ll last a lifetime. You’ll trade the usual hustle and bustle for peace and quiet and swap your dining room for the great outdoors.
It’s all about being thankful for the simple things: good company, beautiful scenery, and the freedom to roam. So, why not pack up your RV and hit the road this Turkey Day? You might just start a new family tradition.
Key Takeaways
- RV camping offers a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving in nature
- Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable holiday on the road
- Embracing the RV lifestyle can create lasting memories with loved ones
Planning Your Thanksgiving Campsite
Choosing the right destination sets the tone for your Thanksgiving experience. Fall weather can vary dramatically across the country, so consider climates that suit your group’s preferences.
Campgrounds in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains or Vermont’s Green Mountains offer a stunning setting for those who love vibrant autumn foliage. Meanwhile, warmer options include Big Cypress RV Resort in Florida or Arizona’s desert campgrounds, perfect for a mild Thanksgiving outdoors.
Popular Thanksgiving Campgrounds
- Asheville Bear Creek RV Park, North Carolina: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Mountain View Campground, Vermont: Known for postcard-perfect fall foliage.
- Boot Hill RV Resort, Arizona: Combines cultural history with great weather.
Reservations and Rates
- Make reservations 3–6 months in advance for popular destinations, but there are definitely last-minute options too!
- Check holiday-specific rates and minimum stay requirements—many campgrounds implement a 3-night minimum during Thanksgiving.
Weather Prep
- Research historical weather data for your chosen location.
- Pack essentials like rain gear, extra blankets, and a portable heater for colder regions.
Setting Up Your RV for Holiday Cooking
Cooking a feast in an RV may sound daunting, but with the right setup, it’s surprisingly manageable.
Maximizing Space
- Invest in collapsible measuring cups, nesting bowls, and stackable containers to save counter and cabinet space.
- Use wall-mounted racks for spices and utensils.
Power Considerations
- Check your RV’s power system before using multiple appliances like an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or air fryer. Consider a portable generator for additional power.
Essential Kitchen Gear
- Dutch oven for versatile cooking.
- Compact roasting pans for smaller cuts of turkey.
- Silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
Outdoor Cooking
- Use a grill or smoker for turkey and sides like grilled vegetables or smoked sweet potatoes.
- A campfire Dutch oven can bake desserts like apple cobbler to perfection.
What Should You Cook for Your Turkey Day Feast?
Thanksgiving camping is a great idea, but what should you cook? Let’s start with the star of the show – the turkey. You can still cook one in your RV, but think smaller. A compact bird or a few turkey breasts will fit nicely in your RV oven.
But what’s Turkey Day without the sides? They’re just as important as the main dish.
Traditional Dishes, RV Style
- Roast turkey breasts instead of a whole bird.
- Create foil-packet mashed sweet potatoes with marshmallow topping.
- Green bean casserole can be prepped in an Instant Pot.
New Traditions
Why not try some new campfire recipes this year? Here are a few tasty ideas:
- Greek Salad with a Twist
- Cheesy Potato Packets
- Campfire Cappuccino Cake
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Prepare pie crusts, cranberry sauce, and stuffing at home to save time.
- Store perishables in space-saving vacuum-sealed bags.
For a fun twist, you could even turn your Thanksgiving dinner into a potluck. Ask your camping buddies to bring their favorite dishes. This way, you’ll have a variety of flavors and less cooking stress.
Portion Planning
- Calculate 1–1.5 pounds of turkey per person.
- Adjust side dish portions to match available fridge and freezer space
Your RV kitchen might be small, but your feast can still be big on flavor. Use your outdoor space for cooking too. A Dutch oven over the campfire can work wonders for casseroles and desserts.
How to Whip Up a Tasty RV Thanksgiving Feast
Ready to cook up a storm in your RV this Thanksgiving? You’ve got plenty of options!
Your RV oven is handy, but it can guzzle propane. Why not try something different?
Fire up that campfire! It’s not just for s’mores. A cast iron dutch oven is your secret weapon. You can bake bread, simmer chili, or even cook your turkey. Just don’t forget your oven mitts!
Grilling is another great choice. It’s not your grandma’s method, but it might become your new favorite. Use a propane or electric grill for precise heat control. Or go for charcoal to add a smoky flavor that’ll make your guests say “yum!”
Here are some quick tips for your RV Thanksgiving:
- Plan your menu ahead
- Cook some dishes the day before
- Use your outdoor space for extra seating
- Consider a potluck to share the cooking
Remember, food storage is key in an RV. Clean out your fridge before shopping. And if the weather turns nasty? No worries! Your RV kitchen has got you covered.
Want to try something new? Here are some RV-friendly Thanksgiving ideas:
- Turkey meatballs with stuffing
- Brussels sprouts with bacon
- Foil packet mashed sweet potatoes
- Dutch oven apple cobbler
With these tips, you’ll cook up a Thanksgiving feast that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Decorating Your RV and Campsite
Holiday decor adds warmth and festivity to your Thanksgiving celebration.
Space-Efficient Decor
- Hang LED string lights and small garlands for a festive feel.
- Use removable hooks to mount lightweight decorations inside and outside your RV.
Outdoor Ambiance
- Set up a cozy seating area with blankets, pillows, and a portable fire pit.
- Use pumpkins, lanterns, and fall-themed tablecloths for your outdoor dining area.
Weather-Resistant Options
- Opt for waterproof LED candles and synthetic wreaths to withstand the elements.
Hosting Family and Guests
Creating a comfortable and inviting environment is essential for a successful Thanksgiving celebration, whether you’re camping with a small group or meeting up with other RV families.
Sleeping Arrangements
For sleeping arrangements, maximize your RV’s versatility by utilizing convertible furniture like dinettes or sofas that double as beds. If your group includes more guests than your RV can comfortably accommodate, consider bringing portable cots or air mattresses, which can be easily set up and stored.
Coordinating Activities
Keeping everyone entertained is another key to a memorable Thanksgiving. For younger campers, classic games like cornhole or scavenger hunts offer hours of outdoor fun. Adults can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, or a lively game of pickleball if the campground has courts available. For those who prefer a more traditional touch, activities like turkey-themed trivia or a friendly football match bring a nostalgic holiday feel. If space allows, an impromptu turkey trot around the campground can get everyone moving before dinner.
Inclement Weather Plans
Don’t let unpredictable weather dampen the holiday spirit. Prepare for inclement conditions with foldable canopies or tarps to shelter your outdoor spaces. Stock your RV with board games, decks of cards, and movies to keep everyone entertained indoors if rain makes an appearance. Once the skies clear, venture out for stargazing or explore local events like parades and holiday markets to soak up the festive atmosphere. With these thoughtful touches, your Thanksgiving camping trip can be as fun as it is unforgettable.
Extra Things to Make Your Thanksgiving Camping Special
A few simple yet impactful touches will add both convenience and festivity to your day.
Start by ensuring sports fans won’t miss a moment of the action—set up TVs both inside and outside your RV for all the football games, creating a lively and inclusive viewing space. Early risers can kick off the holiday with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, transitioning seamlessly to game-time excitement.
To keep post-dinner cleanup stress-free, stock up on plenty of to-go containers for easy leftover storage—an essential for packing up efficiently when the festivities wind down. For a smoother celebration, delegate part of the cooking to local restaurants or grocery stores offering pre-made Thanksgiving dishes. Packing up these ready-to-heat meals the day before is a fantastic time-saver, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the holiday with your loved ones.
Don’t forget to soak in the fall foliage around you. Take a post-dinner stroll to enjoy the colorful leaves and crisp air. It’s a great way to work off that extra slice of pie!
Creating New Traditions
The RV lifestyle is all about adventure. So why not create your own Thanksgiving traditions this year? Maybe a friendly game of touch football before dinner or a campfire storytelling session after the meal?
Whatever you choose, make sure to leave room for dessert. After all, life is sweet when you’re camping on Thanksgiving!
