Going camping for Thanksgiving? The long holiday weekend lends itself to camping — less crowded state parks and campgrounds, cool and mild temperatures (at least in the states below the Mason-Dixon line), and time away without the pressure of extended family and shopping obligations. Plus, if you want a Pilgrim and Native American experience, eating at a picnic table in the woods is probably a pretty close bet to what Americans call the first Thanksgiving in October 1621. (Note: some historians debate the date and place it in 1637, when the Massachusett’s Bay Colony governor, John Winthrop, declared a day of celebration after colonial soldiers slaughtered hundreds of Pequot men, women, and children in what is now Mystic, Connecticut. However, this history rarely jives with the softer elementary school story of a friendly collaborative meal.) Regardless of the history, the tradition of grateful thanks for all that we have is worthy of celebrating in a tent, a camper, a cabin or your own backyard.
The below sample Camping Thanksgiving Menus, pictures and recipes are attributed to the website https://www.freshoffthegrid.com/9-tips-for-cooking-thanksgiving-while-camping/. Visit the link to see the full article and other useful tips for a perfect Thanksgiving meal in the great outdoors.
Sample Menu #1: The Whole Kit & Caboodle
This menu is great for a group of four (or two with leftovers!) and features basically all the flavors that you’d expect out of a classic Thanksgiving feast.
Turkey Meatballs with Stuffing, Cranberries, and Gravy
Foil Packet Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sample Menu #2: Mellow Thanksgiving For Two
If you’ve escaped the big family meal for a relaxing weekend with your partner or a friend, here’s a simplified menu for two. We’ve included both a turkey and a vegetarian main for you to choose from.
–OR–
Squash & Mushroom Risotto (vegetarian main option)
Sample Menu #3: Miles From Anywhere
Brave enough to try a Thanksgiving backpacking trip? If so, here’s a lightweight backpacking Thanksgiving feast!
Backpacking One-Pot Thanksgiving Feast
Other Thanksgiving-Inspired Recipes
- Maple Grilled Tempeh (vegan)
- Cast Iron Butternut Squash
- Dutch Oven Mac & Cheese
- Apple Fennel Stuffing
- Ginger Apple Cider
This article was first published on 11/12/2015 and was updated in 2021 to include additional recipes. All recipes and photos are attributed to Fresh off the Grid website. https://www.freshoffthegrid.com/9-tips-for-cooking-thanksgiving-while-camping/.
Article adapted to post to Girl Camper by Amy Kovach, Nov 2, 2022
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