Of course, the coolers from the back of the pickup will supply meals prepped at home and at the ready whenever the eating inclination arises. After all, we're camping and food cooked over the open fire by the first morning's light is heavenly. There's always an early riser who relishes getting the cook fire rekindled and making that first pot of java. As darkness falls, we snuggle into layers of warm clothing and huddle our chairs around the fire. Scary stories by starlight while indulging in warm Banana Boats are integral to the experience.
Aluminum foil is the camp cook's friend.
Granted this type of vacation may be viewed with disdain by fans of a pampered Hilton indulgence or perceived as pandering by the Appalachian trekker hiking in the simplest manner with few accouterments. But our style of camping agrees with us. It's an affordable change of scene, enormous fun when the weather cooperates and a bonding experience for all involved. This summer's temperatures and rainfall were not conducive to booking the four-night minimum at the coveted campgrounds several months ahead of time. This was the year to watch the weather carefully and plan a two-night escape in a nearby area at the last minute, when the going looked good and the forecast was reasonably dry.