Your Inner Child Will Love These 13 Adult Summer Camps

Pack your bags, you’re going to summer camp! You heard right — adults around the world are headed for nostalgic (or not so nostalgic) woodsy getaways in the spirit of adventure. Still in the planning stages? You may want to think twice about a road trip or Amtrak excursion to some far off destination once you hear about these 13 thrilling adult sleep-away camps. Scroll on for adult summer camps that’ll capture your inner child’s imagination — or at least serve up a mean cocktail among your new friends.

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Kellerman's!

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1. Dirty Dancing Camp, Pembroke, VA: Pack your dancing shoes, Baby! Enjoy a weekend at the Kellerman’s Mountain House in the dreamy small town where Dirty Dancing was originally filmed. Come prepared for a swingin’ dance party in Mary’s Barn.

2. Lindenmere Adult Summer Camp, Henryville, PA: Get ready to relive your childhood summer camp experience in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, but with a whole lot more booze! Let the adventurer in you out with activities like canoeing, mountain biking, yoga, and even flying trapeze.

3. Camp Grounded, Mendocino, CA: Say goodbye to all your electronics at this unplugged camp located on the Northern California Coast. Regain your childlike wonder through laughing yoga, candle making, analog photography, solar carving, and stimulating conversations with other adults — sans smartphones.

4. Bacon Camp, Ann Arbor, Michigan: Do you love bacon? Do you love it so much that you’d like to meet other bacon aficionados? Look no further than this magical Bacon Camp in the Midwest. Listen to bacon music (that’s a thing?) and eat TONS of delicious pork dishes, from candied bacon creme brulee to pork belly.

5. Zombie Survival Camp, Ontario, Canada: Learn how to take on RL zombies at this summer camp — you know, just in case there’s ever a serious Walking Dead-style outbreak. There are four three-day camps being held in Ontario this year with lessons in Krav Maga, archery, and other survival basics. Sign up ASAP, and order some combat boots while you’re at it.

6. The Raymond Blanc Cookery School, Oxford, United Kingdom: Escape to the beautiful English countryside to perfect your culinary skills alongside expert chefs. By the end of camp, you’ll be delighted by your exquisite macarons and ah-mazing seafood cooking abilities.

7. Camp Wandawega, Elkhorn, WI: Travel back in time for an authentic camping experience you never knew you needed. Known for its array of campsite dwellings, you could find yourself sleeping in anything from a teepee to a tree house to a log cabin. Does it get any cooler? Nope!

8. Ace Camps Travel Company, Various Locations: This unique company gives you the opportunity to travel with your best buds anywhere in the world to learn a new skill from talented locals, whether it’s block printing in India or ceramic tile making in Portugal. Talk about the trip of a lifetime!

9. Wanderlust, Various Locations: Let your yogi light shine at a camp that was designed for you. With mountainous locations all around the world, it’s never been easier to get inspired to live your best life.

10. Surfing Australia HPC, Casuarina, Australia: Boost your surfer babe vibes at one of the most famous surfing capitals in the world. Sun-kissed hair, bronzed skin, and some gnarly wave riding talent will just be a few of the treasures you’ll take home with you from this awesome camp.

11. Astronomy Camp, Tucson, Arizona: Reach for the stars at this stellar camp filled with warm nights under the mysterious dark sky. Learn how to operate star-gazing instruments for a truly out-of-this-world experience.

12. Broadway Fantasy Camp, New York, NY: Sing and dance at this lively camp built for aspiring entertainers. Play the role of your fave Broadway character in full costume and cherish your five-minutes of fame.

Are you booking a bunk at an adult summer camp? Let us know which one @BritandCo!

It's taken years (kid you not) to develop this thickvegan instant pot chili. Many recipes out there turn out too soupy and have a sort of muted steamed taste. We've toyed with the measurements here and there and finally can present something we're impressed with. Fascinatingly enough, quinoa helps to bind the veg and tomatoes together; the pseudo-grain swells up and soaks any extraneous liquid. It's an essential part of this simple vegetarian chili that calls for only a handful of ingredients.

We intentionally tried to make it easier on you, because we know getting a home-cooked meal on the table is trouble enough. The most effort you'll have to put forth is cranking open a bunch of cans and rough-chopping onion and pepper. We promise you can get through that prep in about the same amount of time it takes to listen to a single on Spotify.

How To Make Pressure-Cooked Vegetarian Chili

Once cooked, the onions, tomatoes, and peppers practically melt in your mouth, while the beans retain their firmness and chew. This is not a five-alarm chili in terms of heat, but you can certainly crank things up by doctoring it with sriracha, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeño. If you need more textural contrast, serve it with some tortilla chips. The recipe yields quite a large amount — certainly enough for you to reheat and enjoy all week long. That, or inspire you to host a last-minute dinner party with spicy paloma cocktails for all.

Recipe Notes: Don't rinse the beans! They help thicken the chili. To crank up the heat, dice up a fresh jalapeño (ribs and seeds), and toss it in the pressure cooker along with all the other ingredients. The hot capsaicin will infuse into every bite of the chili.

Ingredients

Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)

  • 2 cups broth of your choice
  • 1 1/2 cups quinoa
  • 1 large onion, large dice
  • 2 bell peppers, large dice
  • 1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 1 4 ounce can diced green chilis
  • 1 heaping tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 15 ounce can black beans, drained
  • 1 15 ounce can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 15 ounce can pinto beans, drained
  • salt and cayenne, to taste
  • shredded cheddar cheese or nutritional yeast, to garnish
  • guacamole or freshly sliced avocado, to garnish

Directions

Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)

Step One

In the pot of a multicooker, combine all ingredients in the order they appear. Secure the lid and lock. Cook on chili/bean setting or on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes.

Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)

Step Two

Quick-release, carefully remove lid, and stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Salt and/or sprinkle cayenne pepper to taste.

Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)

Step Three

Divide chili in bowls, garnishing with shredded cheddar cheese and guacamole (or avocado).

Step Four

Transfer leftovers to an air-tight container, and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Flavor will improve each day as the spices sink into the ingredients.

Dive into more mouth-watering food recipes on Brit + Co!

Recipe created by Anna Monette Roberts

This post has been updated.

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

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Camping foods are a great excuse to cook creatively, since you're working with limited tools, unpredictable conditions, and fewer ingredients. Not to mention, there's nothing quite as lovely as cooking (and more importantly, eating) under a wide-open sky. As cool as brewing kombucha or mandoline-slicing veggies for campfire ratatouille sounds, you'll probably be happier making easy camping meals while you're living in a tent.

Not only are these dishes delicious, but they're also quick and easy, which gives you more time for hiking, relaxing, or just hanging out with your friends and family! From breakfast to dessert, these recipes make campsite cooking approachable *and* delicious.

What are good meals to make while camping?

Brit + Co

Chili hot dogs, mac and cheese, grilled corn, pancakes, campfire nachos, roasted salmon, and sloppy joes are all easy meals to make while camping.

What is the best food to bring for camping?

Brit + Co

Eggs, rice, bread, beans, canned tuna, cereal, tinned veggies, jams, crackers, protein bars, and fresh fruit are all the best foods to bring for a camping trip. Ensuring your camp is stocked with grains is helpful in sustaining your energy down the line.

What food do I bring for camping for a week?

Brit + Co

You'll want to stock up on some easy-to-use groceries if your camping trip is a week long (especially if you bring your pup!). Bring eggs, bacon, cereal, and potatoes. Don't forget the coffee, either. Load up some peanut butter and jelly, bread, granola bars, chips, hummus and other dips, hot dogs, and canned chili and soups. Fruits that can be stored easily like bananas, apples, and clementines make for good camping and hiking snacks.

What is classic camping food?

Brit + Co

Franks and beans, grilled chicken and hamburgers, and campfire chili are all considered classic, traditional camping meals because the recipes are accessible and simple. Of course, s'mores are always on a classic camping menu.

The Easiest Recipes You Need To Make The Best Camping Food Ever

Brit + Co

3-Ingredient Protein Pancakes

All you need are bananas, eggs, and your favorite protein powder to make these quick and healthy pancakes. They're super customizable, meaning you can top yours with anything from a chocolate smiley face to a blueberry heart, or do a different topping every day. For a camping trip, prep the batter ahead of time and carry it in a closed container so you're not scrambling to bring a campsite breakfast together. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Campfire Peach Cobbler

If you never thought canned peaches and refrigerated biscuit dough could make you sing, you're highly underestimating the two. When dusted with cinnamon sugar and cooked over the fire, they form a sweet, buttery cobbler. This camping food is the perfect vehicle for copious amounts of whipped cream. (via Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wraps

These chicken wraps are super versatile because you can grill them or leave them cold if you prefer. Grab some rotisserie chicken to make this camping recipe even easier. The real star of the show is the buffalo sauce – it adds a nice kick that complements the creaminess of the ranch and cheese. Yes, please! (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Superfood Egg Sandwich

This hearty sandwich is a great way to start off a day full of hiking, swimming, or just hanging out at the campsite. Chia seeds, avocado, spinach, and Greek yogurt give a regular egg sandwich a seriously nutritious upgrade! (viaBrit + Co)

Brit + Co

Keto Cheesy Brussels Sproutsssels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are great for getting in vitamin K, antioxidants, and fiber. A cheesy bacon topping takes them to the next level in this camping recipe. To get ready for your trip, just make them ahead of time, cover them, and store your dish in the fridge until it's time to leave. Reheat them over the campfire, and dig in! (viaBrit + Co)

Brit + Co

Asparagus + Goat Cheese Frittata

If you've never had a frittata before, think of it like a cousin to omelettes, or a quiche without the crust. Asparagus and goat cheese make this pick *extra* springlike, but you can sub for your favorite cheese, or even skip the cheese (and sub the cream) for a non-dairy alternative. This is one camping breakfast recipe you can make right over the fire. (viaBrit + Co)

Brit + Co

Chicken + Broccoli Foil Dinner

Foil dinners are a camping staple because you can just throw them on the fire and let them cook while you're playing cards, telling stories, or catching up on your latest read. This camping food is totally customizable, so pick soy sauce for an Asian flavor or go with your regular ol' hot sauce. You can also swap the chicken and broccoli for different meats and veggies until you find your favorite combo! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Easy Instant Pot Tuscan White Bean Soup

Hot soup is one of the best camping dinners because it's filling and it'll keep you warm after the sun goes down! This one is chock full of carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, onions, and kale. It also calls for sausage, but you could easily leave that out to turn it into a meat-free dish. Make it beforehand with your Instant Pot, or just use a big pot over the blazing campfire. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cast Iron Pizza

Store-bought pizza dough is going to help you save a ton of time with this camping food. You can cut the slices as big or small as you want, and with lots of cheese and veggies, this pie will bring a smile to everyone's faces! Load up a cast iron skillet with the pizza, and you've got yourself a hearty post-hike dinner. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Lemon Chicken Skewers Camping Food

Before you head off on your adventure, cut up some chicken and veggies and store them in different containers. Then, when you're in front of your campside grill, you can just arrange 'em and cook! Moroccan flavors and the creamy feta sauce in this camping recipe are a match made in heaven. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Campfire Chilaquiles

Turn a bag of tortilla chips into breakfast with these hearty chilaquiles! This Mexican-inspired dish is basically a breakfast lasagna, as it comes together so easily with layers of salsa, beans, chips, and cheese — plus some eggs on top. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Egg Muffins

Okay, so we'll admit that this might not be the easiest camping recipe once you're actually at your campsite, but prepare them beforehand, and you'll have a filling and cost-effective breakfast at your disposal. The veggies add a healthy edge and flavor that's worthy of two thumbs up! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Grilled Fluffernutter Sandwich

Peanut butter, chocolate chips, and marshmallow spread come together for one of the best dessert sandwiches known to man. This is a super-sweet camping recipe that will satisfy kids and adults alike. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Triscuit, Prosciutto, Drunken Goat Cheese, + Tomato Bites

These finger foods look and sound super fancy, but are as easy as assembling any other no-bake snacks! Layer the ingredients ahead of time for a snack in the car, or wait until you're curled up inside your sleeping bag with your book to indulge. Either way, these will taste amazing! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

10-Minute Vegan Stir Fry

If all you have time for ahead of your trip is to stop at a Trader Joe's, you're in luck with this camping food. This 10-minute stir-fry comes together with three main ingredients and requires zero advance work. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Campfire Veggie Packets

Bring chopped peppers, onions, and potatoes to camp, dump them into foil packets with your favorite sausage, and enjoy an exquisitely fragrant meal. Not only is this camping food a tasty way to intake lots of veggies, but they also make for easy camping meals for larger groups. It's a win-win! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Gooey Banana Boat Camping S'mores

Step up your usual s'mores by crafting them inside halved bananas! Once you've assembled all of the ingredients (and even more sweet toppings) inside a foil pack, let your dessert sit above the fire for a few minutes. That way, everything becomes deliciously gooey and melty! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sweet Potato + Black Bean Chili

Love chili, but not a huge fan of ground beef? This vegan recipe (which features sweet potatoes, black beans, mushrooms, and tomatoes) is just the thing to satisfy your craving. Since there's no meat or dairy products, you don't have to worry about it going bad, either. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Chicken Pepperoni Casserole

A make-ahead dinner that brings pizza and chicken together? Count us in. This low-carb recipe features tomato sauce, three different kinds of cheese, and pepperoni for a tasty dish that will make your inner child cheer. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Shakshuka

This Middle Eastern dish is full of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices (along with some eggs), and makes for a wonderfully warm and filling addition to your camping foods list. Leave as-is, or top with a little bit (or a lot) of cheese. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pineapple Chicken Skewer Lettuce Wraps

Bring some pre-marinated chicken and wrap fixings to your campsite, then unload everything onto a tray for this easy camping recipe. Your fellow campers will have a blast customizing their own skewers and lettuce wraps! (viaBrit + Co)

Brit + Co

Fruit Skewers with Mason Jar Whipped Cream

Behold, exhibit number 7,043 why butter and sugar make everything better. Here, they're slathered onto your favorite summer fruits, which are formed into finger food skewers and grilled in foil packets. While the fruits cook, have fun shaking up some mason-jar whipped cream! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Campfire Cones

When it's time to break out dessert, consider these delicious cones. All you have to do is stuff an ice cream cone with your favorite chocolate candies, marshmallows, and nuts, and wrap it up in aluminum foil. It becomes its own campfire packet! Just set it over the fire for a few minutes to melt the chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Triscuit, Almond Butter, Banana, + Honey Camping Bites

When snack time rolls around, you want something healthy that also tastes delish and will satisfy you until dinner's ready. It's harder than it should be to find a recipe that does all three! Enter: these bites. The almond butter offers protein, while the banana adds some fiber, and the honey keeps things sweet. Done and done. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Jackfruit Burrito Bowls

This jackfruit recipe is the perfect way to get everything you love about burrito bowls, without the meat. Once assembled, top your bowl with bouts of avocado, corn, onions, and salsa. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Make-Ahead Spinach Mushroom Gnocchi Casserole

Casseroles are one of the ultimate comfort foods, and this camping recipe (complete with three different cheeses, mushrooms, and plenty of thyme) is as cozy as it gets. Make it at home, or cook it up in a skillet right over the campfire. You won't be disappointed. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Strawberry Arugula Walnut Salad

Sometimes you prefer a lighter lunch, especially if you're camping on a hot afternoon. This camping food also makes for good fuel during a day hike! The salad has plenty of strawberries and walnuts, plus a nice dose of balsamic dressing that satisfies without weighing you down. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Colorful Peeps S'mores

You can't have a camping trip without s'mores... right?! It's a requirement. If you want to change up your usual s'mores recipe, consider swapping regular marshmallows for Peeps instead for some extra color! And while the chocolate dipped graham crackers are optional, we 100% recommend them. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Chickpea Salad Sandwich

If you're somewhat... challenged... when it comes to starting a campfire, have no fear! This budget-friendly vegetarian meal comes together in minutes, and no heat's necessary. This is especially great for camping trips in the dead of summer. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Chrissy Tiegen's Pork Bánh Mì with Quick Pickles and Roasted Broccoli

Carrots, cucumbers, and broccoli offer some nutrients, and the soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar give this simple camping meal some serious flavor. Plus, look at all that color! If you're not a fan of sandwiches, you can make the pickle mix (with the cucumbers, carrots, and shallot) for a healthy side dish. (via Brit + Co)

Fresh Off The Grid

One-Pot Beef Stroganoff

If you're camping, but still want hearty camping food that tastes just like grandma used to make, turn to this simplified beef stroganoff. It's the most high-effort recipe on this list, but it only requires one cast iron skillet. The minimal advance prep will go a long way in this camping meal idea. (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Barley & Sage

Homemade Oven Beef Jerky

Whether you're in the car on the way to your campsite (roadtrip!), or you're already around the campfire, you need some snacks! This DIY beef jerky is an easy way to make your own – no dehydrator required. The key to getting jerky that everyone is sure to love is actually in how you cut it. Slice along the grain for chewy, or against the grain for tender jerky. (via Barley & Sage)

Feel Good Foodie

DIY Pizza Lunchable

Make a healthier (and not to mention cheaper) version of our favorite childhood meal (AKA Lunchables) with pita bread, cheese, and tomato sauce. This is a great pick for the car or the campsite, and since you can customize the veggies, it's a surefire way to keep everyone happy! (via Feel Good Foodie)

This Wife Cooks

Grilled Garlic + Parmesan Potato Packets

You simply can't beat a warm serving of cheesy potatoes, no matter where you are. Luckily, you can have a big ol' scoop of spuds right at the campfire with this camping recipe! (via This Wife Cooks)

Culinary Hill

Biscuits and Gravy

Flavorful, filling, and warm, biscuits and gravy make for one of the best camping recipes. There's nothing like smelling the gravy and feeling the chill of the morning air. We love it so much. Prep the gravy ahead of time, so that you don't have to do as much work at your campsite, or you could spend time making it with the whole fam! (via Culinary Hill)

Kathryn's Kitchen

S'mores Snack Mix

De-s'more-ify your go-to s'mores for this mess-free version that's definitely just as yummy as the OG. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

A Spicy Perspective

Caprese Chicken Foil Packets

This camping recipe only requires a few minutes, which makes it the perfect dinner after a hike or while the rest of the fam is telling scary stories around the fire. Not only is it bursting with flavors of cheese, pesto, and tomatoes, but there's basically no cleanup required. Big thumbs up from us. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Feel Good Foodie

Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

Brussels sprouts are great for getting some extra antioxidants and fiber, though you may not think of them as camping food. With parmesan cheese and a DIY Caesar dressing, this veg just got a whole lot tastier. Chop the sprouts and mix up the dressing beforehand so when dinnertime rolls around, you can just assemble the salad and dig in. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Culinary Hill

Easy Campside Ham Roll-Ups

These bite size roll ups are literally one of the easiest camping snacks you'll ever make. All you need is ham, cream cheese, and pickles, and you've got yourself one salty, creamy bite. Make this camping food ahead of time to nail down the presentation, or just pile everything together once you've set up camp. (via Culinary Hill)

Completely Delicious

Backpacking Ramen

Skip the sodium-clad instant ramen packs, and opt to make your own instead. This version is elevated using dried veggies, soy, and sesame oil for maximum flavor enjoyment. (via Completely Delicious)

Two Peas & Their Pod

Nut Free Granola Bars

Granola bars are a guaranteed camping food, and you don't even have to buy them from the store. This recipe makes making your own granola bars super simple, plus gives a nice option for nut-free bars for anyone who can't eat nuts or just doesn't like them! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

The Seasoned Mom

Mediterranean Salmon Foil Packets

Cool pesto and crumbly feta on top of silky salmon filets will always feel restorative, no matter how hot it is outside. This is definitely on our best camping foods list! (via The Seasoned Mom)

Half Baked Harvest

Spicy Beer BBQ Chicken Skewers with Avocado Corn and Feta Salsa

Everything about this camping recipe is a good idea. Simmer some beer, ketchup, and honey with chipotle chilis for a sauce that will go great with burgers, fries, and all your summertime sandwiches. Spread some of the sauce on chicken cubes before grilling them to get some extra flavor, and add even more once the skewers are plated! Gotta love some sauce. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Averie Cooks

Campfire Apple Crisp Foil Packs

Prep this campside dessert by day, then indulge in sweet, gooey goodness by night. It's fairly easy to bring along in your backpack! (via Averie Cooks)

Culinary Hill

Chili Dogs

Hot dogs are one of the best classic camping bites, and the only way you can make them better is by adding chili and cheese. Good thing this recipe has both! This is a super easy camping recipe to assemble, plus it's easy to customize. Picky eaters, welcome! While the recipe calls for a DIY chili, you should simply grab a can from the store to make meal prep faster. (via Culinary Hill)

Fresh Off The Grid

Campfire Banana Boats

How cute are these kid-friendly banana boats? You can prep this camping recipe a full nine different ways, including flavors like Strawberry Hazelnut, S'Mores, Banana Split, and Honey Ginger. We'd like to try every single one, please and thank you. (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Vikalinka

Salmon + Potatoes Foil Packs

Camping with your boo? Make fireside date night even better with this fancy AF salmon dinner – camping-friendly, of course! (via Vikalinka)

Annie's Noms

Raspberry Dark Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats

Pretty much nothing could be simpler than prepping a jar overnight oats ahead of time and eating them for breakfast while you're camping. And by the way, feel free to use whatever fruit you'd like for your oats, from strawberries to blueberries and beyond. This camping food is also meal prep-friendly for when you return to reality. (via Annie's Noms)

Life In The Lofthouse

BBQ Chicken Foil Packs

Prep this camping meal ahead of time, and then throw these bad boys in the fire once you're on your camping trip. Two notes of caution: 1.Keep these in a cooler until you're ready to cook them, so the chicken doesn't spoil, and 2. Make sure to wear heat-proof gloves when taking these out of the campfire! (via Life In The Lofthouse)

Favorite Family Recipes

Cajun-Style Grill Foil Packets

You might notice that there are a couple of foil packet recipes on this list, mainly because they're *so* perfect for camping. This easy camping recipe offers a Cajun take on things. (via Favorite Family Recipes)

The Real Food Dietitians

Chewy S'mores Granola Bars

These s'mores bars are easy to pack in and emulate your fave campside snack! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

BS' In The Kitchen

Bailey's Dipped Toasted Marshmallows

Going camping with your S.O.? We're pretty sure that this insanely delicious (and adults-only) dipped marshmallow snack is about to be the hit of the weekend. (via BS' In The Kitchen)

A Spicy Perspective

Prosciutto and Edamame Pasta with Lemon Glaze

This might be the fanciest pasta salad we've seen. The bright colors and tangy flavors make it the perfect warm weather recipe, and a healthy lunch on any camping adventure! Prosciutto, edamame, and cantaloupe come together for a sweet and salty camping food that you have to taste to believe. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Kristine's Kitchen

Energy-Boosting Trail Mix with Toasted Coconut and Dark Chocolate

So, we've already covered some ideas for what camping recipes to eat around the fire, but what about when you're on the trail? Cue this high-energy snack loaded with coconut flakes, raw almonds, dried cherries, dark chocolate, cashews, and more. (via Kristine's Kitchen)

Life With The Crust Off

Hot Ham & Swiss Croissants

Sure, these are technically sandwiches, which is why they're so easy to make for a camping trip. But the twist is that you wrap them in foil and throw them on the heat, allowing the cheese to get all melty and gooey. Better than your average sammie, no? (via Life With The Crust Off)

Chelsea's Messy Apron

Italian Sausage and Veggies Foil Pack

Looking for a good camping food, but want to keep things healthy and low-carb? Spring for this yummy (and filling) Italian sausage and bell pepper combo. Mix in as many different colored peppers as you possibly can to maximize enjoyment. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)

Vanilla and Bean

Lemon Tahini Cashew Granola

Lemon and tahini team up to form the tastiest camping breakfast topper you've ever had! This camping food goes great on top of fruit or yogurt bowls to fuel you up before the day actually starts. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Damn Delicious

Sausage, Potato, and Green Bean Foil Packs

Camping with your dad? He'll love this classic meat-and-potatoes combo, and so will everyone else. (via Damn Delicious)

Culinary Hill

24 Hour Fruit Salad

Anything that can be made overnight is going to get a stamp of approval from us, especially on a camping trip. This sweet and fruity recipe is the easiest camping snack to add to your trip, especially if the rest of your meals are heavy and salty. (via Culinary Hill)

Hapa Nom Nom

Camping Mac and Cheese

The key to making this campfire mac and cheese recipe is to pre-cook the noodles before you leave home. Once you've done that, it's all downhill from there. This is a one-pot recipe that uses barely any dishes, so cleanup time goes by a lot faster. (viaHapa Nom Nom)

A Spicy Perspective

Best Frito Chili Pie

If you've never had a Frito pie, it's time to fix that, like, right now. This camping recipe includes making your own chili, then filling the Frito bags, but you can also just stuff with store-bought ground beef, cheese, and salsa to make things even easier. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Fresh Off The Grid

Grilled Halloumi Breakfast Sandwich

The halloumi on this meat-free sandwich promises all the heartiness and none of the greasiness of bacon or sausage. When fried for just a few minutes, it gets perfectly golden on the outside and remains toothsome throughout. Enjoy your camping breakfast with a pot of fresh campfire coffee! (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Culinary Hill

Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups

Ham and cheese is a tried-and-true pinwheel combo, but this camping recipe takes it to the next level with a mix of chiles, olives, onions, and garlic. They'll make for an excellent camping food and lunchbox addition, come the end of the season. (via Culinary Hill)

The Cookie Rookie

Foil Packet Nachos

You’ve tried them in the oven, you’ve tried them in the microwave at 2AM, and now it’s time to try them camping-style in a foil packet over a crackling fire. These nacho packs seal in a lot of heat, so everything melds to the chips, and the cheese melts perfectly. (via The Cookie Rookie)

Fresh Off The Grid

Vegan S'mores

As it turns out, elevating classic s'mores is as simple as making some vegan swaps. If you're feeling extra adventurous, top your campfire dessert with a few potato chips! Their saltiness draws out even more sweetness from chocolate, and their crispiness is the perfect contrast with pillowy marshmallows. (via Fresh Off The Grid)

Kirbie's Cravings

Foil Pack Garlic Fries

Fries can totally be a meal. We can attest that this camping recipe is as delicious as it sounds. Enjoy these well-seasoned spuds post-hike, and you’ll forever be a believer in the power of campfire potatoes. (via Kirbie's Cravings)

A Spicy Perspective

Cheesy Ranch Chicken Potato Foil Packets

Ranch dip seasoning really lets this mix of chicken, veggies, and cheese stand apart from the crowd. This dish is a delicious meal for your camping adventures, but it's also great during other times of the year — you can break out the recipe again once tailgate season rolls around! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Half Baked Harvest

Campfire Grilled S'more Calzones

Not in the mood for traditional calzones? This is the perfect campfire recipe for you – in the form of grilled s'more calzones. Filled with gooey chocolate and marshmallows, you'll love eating this sweet treat for dessert by the fire. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Vikalinka

Salmon and Potatoes in Foil

Similar to the way you'd cook salmon and potatoes at home, this campfire recipe is super easy to make and has the perfect amount of mouth-watering flavor. (via Vikalinka)

Averie Cooks

Chicken Tinga Tacos

Nothing turns our gears more than succulent chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and tacos. When you put them together, you get this iconic chicken tinga tacos recipe that'll be a hit around the campsite. (via Averie Cooks)

Cozy Cravings

Caramelized Onions & Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches work for just about any setting. Make sure you gather your the tools you'll need to make them over your campfire! (via Cozy Cravings)

The Endless Meal

Camping Hot Dogs with Caramelized Onions

While you're at it, add a few caramelized onions to your camping hot dogs – you won't regret it. (via The Endless Meal)

What did you make on your last camping trip? Tag us in your favorite camping foods on Instagram and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!

Additional reporting by Meghan Alfano, Chloe Williams, and Meredith Holser.

This post was updated from an earlier version.

Christmas cookie decorating is holiday tradition for us here at B+C, so we were so stoked to find this recipe for paleo cookies that adds a healthy twist to this classic holiday dessert. These sweet treats will shine among the rest of your Christmastime tablescape, and they are super easy to make. Plus, they'll pair well with just about any Christmas dessert. Just combine your paleo-friendly ingredients to prep the dough, let it sit overnight, then bake for ten minutes! The best part about this recipe is of course, all of the fun holiday-time shapes you can cut. Consider this recipe your go-to for healthy cookies, though, since you can make them year-round in any shape you like. Let's get to decorating!

Ingredients for Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

For the cookies:

  • 1/2 cup grass-fed salted butter, softened
  • 6 tablespoons raw honey
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the frosting:

  • 6 tablespoons coconut butter or coconut manna
  • 1/4 cup cacao butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey
  • Plant-based food coloring
  • Vegetable-dyed sprinkles, for topping*
* Look for vegetable and fruit-dyed food coloring and sprinkles in natural grocery stores or online, and avoid artificial colors to keep these cookies Paleo friendly!

How to Make Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

  1. Add the softened butter and honey to a large mixing bowl. Cream the mixture together using a handheld mixer until it is smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract and whisk until they are well combined. Pour in the almond flour, coconut flour, and baking soda, and continue mixing until the batter has come together smoothly.
  2. Separate the dough into two, and place each one on top of a piece of plastic wrap. Roll each dough into a ball, then flatten to a thick disk, cover completely with the plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator to firm up for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove one of the dough discs from the refrigerator, unwrap the plastic and place the dough on top of a piece of parchment paper, then top it with another piece of parchment paper. Use a roller to flatten out the dough to about 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch thick. Work quickly with your favorite Christmas cookie cutters, and use a thin spatula to lift the cut cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake the cookies in the oven for 10 minutes. Let them cool for a few minutes, then place on a wire rack for further cooling. Gather the leftover scraps back into a ball in the plastic wrap or parchment paper and place it back in the refrigerator, while working with the other piece of dough. Do this in batches to keep the dough from getting too warm and so you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
  5. While the batches of cookies are baking, use a small saucepan to lightly melt the coconut butter and cacao butter together over low heat on the stovetop. Remove the pan from the heat when the ingredients have just melted together. Stir in the desired amount of honey, then set aside to cool and thicken up slightly. If you are using food coloring, add in the desired amount into the frosting mixture (1-2 teaspoons of green or red should do the trick). If you plan on only using white frosting, only use a small amount of honey, as it can make the frosting an off-white or light brown color.
  6. After the cookies have completely cooled, decorate them with the frosting and sprinkles as desired. If you don’t have any professional piping tools, an easy fix is to place the frosting in a plastic sandwich bag and remove all the air when sealing the top. Cut a tiny tip off one corner of the plastic bag, then gently squeeze and pipe over the cookies. Use one plastic bag or piping bag for each color of frosting. Top with corresponding sprinkles and enjoy!

Is your mouth watering yet? Check out our newsletter for more delicious holiday recipe ideas!

Recipe development and photography by Sarah Anderson.

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.