Category: RV Lifestyle

Oh, the freedom! We all know the attraction of the RV life. There’s something about the open road, the ever-changing backyard, and the ability to take your home wherever you go. The very thrill of it begs to be shared and fuels romantic RV getaways. But once you’ve seen what you’ve seen that day and retire to the RV at day’s end, you may find yourself asking: How far does RV privacy go? Those folks parked in the campsites near you. Can they still see you, hear you, tell what you’re doing?

The reality is that the RV lifestyle does sacrifice some privacy. Especially at a campground or RV resort — even some of the best ones. But whether you’re at a crowded campground or parked in a boondocking spot with curious hikers passing by, there are things you can do to prep your rig and safeguard your RV privacy. In fact, doing so will probably help you sleep better. Improving your RV’s privacy can make a huge difference in your comfort, security, and overall travel experience.

So, whether you’re looking for ways to block out nosy neighbors or create a quiet retreat inside your rig, these five RV privacy upgrades will help you feel more at home — wherever you roam.

 

1. Upgrade Your Window Coverings

Windows provide natural light and beautiful views, but they also give outsiders an easy way to peek inside your RV. (To be fair, intentionally or unintentionally.) The right window treatments can instantly enhance your RV privacy and even improve insulation.

 

Best Window Covering Options for RV Privacy

• Blackout Curtains. These block out both sunlight and prying eyes. They’re great for night privacy, helping you sleep in after sunrise, and can also keep your RV cooler in the summer.
• Day/Night Shades. Many modern RVs come with these, offering the option to let in filtered light while maintaining privacy during the day and full blackout at night.
• Reflective Window Film. This is a great option for daytime RV privacy. It allows you to see out while preventing others from seeing in, but keep in mind that it doesn’t work as well at night when your lights are on inside.
• Velcro or Magnetic Blackout Covers. These provide a simple and removable option, perfect for boondockers who want to block out all light and stay stealthy in urban settings.

Pro Tip!

If you’re on a budget, DIY window coverings using Reflectix and fabric can provide great privacy and insulation. Cut pieces to fit your windows, secure them with Velcro, and pop them in when you need extra privacy or temperature control.

 

2. Use an RV Skirt or Outdoor Privacy Screens

If you’ve ever camped at a busy campground, you know that sometimes it can feel like your neighbors are just a few feet away. (Because they probably are.) Using an RV skirt or outdoor privacy screens can help create a more private and comfortable outdoor space.

 

A Few Options to Consider

• RV Skirting. Not just for insulation in cold weather, RV skirting can also add an extra layer of privacy, blocking off the view underneath your RV from passersby. Fabric skirting is portable and easy to install, while more permanent options like rigid foam board offer better insulation.
• Pop-Up Privacy Screens. These are lightweight, foldable barriers that provide an instant private outdoor area around your RV. They’re great for separating your space from neighboring campers.
• Retractable Awnings with Side Panels. If you already have an awning, adding side panels can give you shade and privacy at the same time.

Pro Tip!

For a budget-friendly DIY privacy screen, consider using a tarp and bungee cords to create a temporary barrier around your outdoor space.

 

3. Soundproof Your RV

Privacy isn’t just about keeping people from seeing inside. It’s also about limiting how much noise travels in and out of your RV. Whether you’re parked at a noisy campground or you just don’t want your conversations to carry, a few soundproofing tricks can help.

 

Ways to Reduce Noise Inside Your RV.

• Weather Stripping. Adding weather stripping around doors and windows can help block sound from leaking in and out.
• Soundproof Curtains. Heavier fabric curtains help absorb sound, reducing noise levels inside.
• Foam Panels or Rugs. Adding soft materials like foam panels to the walls or thick rugs to the floor can help dampen sound and keep things quieter.
• Door Draft Stoppers. These are great for blocking noise, light, and as it states, a draft from creeping in under your RV’s doors.

Pro Tip!

If you’re staying in a noisy campground, a white noise machine, phone app, or small fan can help mask outside sounds so you can sleep peacefully.

 

4. Secure Your Entry Points

Your RV’s doors and windows are not just for access — they also determine how secure and private your living space is. Adding some simple upgrades to these areas can make a big difference.

 

How to Bolster Your RV’s Entry Points

• Upgrade Your Door Locks. Many RVs come with standard locks that are easy to pick or duplicate. Consider upgrading to a keyless entry lock or deadbolt for better security.
• Add a Security Camera. A small battery-powered security camera allows you to check who’s outside without opening the door and gives you added visibility even when you’re away.
• Use a Door Curtain or Window Film. If your RV door has a window, cover it with a curtain or film to prevent anyone from seeing inside.
• Install Motion-Sensor Lights. Outdoor lights that turn on when movement is detected help deter unwanted visitors while making it easier to see at night. This also helps with little critters that move about at night, as they tend to run from a light that turns on.

Pro Tip!

A simple stick-on frosted window film can let light in while keeping prying eyes out. It’s an inexpensive way to add privacy without blocking natural light completely.

 

5. Create a Private Sleeping Space

One of the biggest challenges in RV living is creating a private sleeping area, especially in smaller rigs or those with open layouts. Whether you’re traveling with family or just want a cozy retreat, there are ways to make your sleeping area more private.

 

Upping the Privacy in Your Sleeping Space

• Use a Privacy Curtain or Divider. If your RV doesn’t have a separate bedroom, installing a curtain or folding screen can give you a little extra separation.
• Opt for a Murphy Bed or Loft Bunk. If you’re shopping for an RV, models with Murphy beds or loft bunks often provide a way to tuck away your sleeping space when not in use, keeping it more private when needed.
• Position Your RV Strategically. If you have the option, park in a way that gives your bedroom windows the most privacy — whether it’s facing away from other campers or backing up to a more secluded area.

Pro Tip!

In smaller RVs, blackout curtains with Velcro closures can create an instant private sleeping nook without taking up extra space. They also help regulate sleep patterns when traveling north to places like Alaska or Canada that can experience extended, and in some cases 24-hour sunlight.

 

Enjoying the Peace of RV Privacy

Privacy is one of those things you don’t think about much until you realize you don’t have it. Whether you’re camping in a crowded RV park, boondocking in a busy area, or just trying to get a good night’s sleep, improving your RV’s privacy can make your travels much more comfortable.

From simple window coverings to strategic parking and soundproofing techniques, there are plenty of ways to enhance privacy in your rig. The best part? Most of these upgrades are affordable, easy to install, and make a noticeable difference in your overall RV experience.

So, whether you’re looking to keep out prying eyes, block out noise, or create a cozy retreat, these tips will help you turn your RV into the private sanctuary you deserve — no matter where the road takes you.

Even if you are not a wine enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with some of the big names among  the grape growing regions in the U.S. Names like Willamette Valley in Oregon and the world-famous Napa Valley in California. But you might be surprised to know that some of the best wine destinations aren’t even on the West Coast. They are, in fact, all over the country. From the Southwest to the Smokies and up to the peninsulas of Michigan, there’s as much diversity in American wine as there are places to park your RV! Which means that no matter where you’re starting from, you have a ripe selection of RV wine tours.

 

 

Indulging in region-specific wine — and culinary delights that come with them — is an activity that RVs seem made for. Quite simply, your RV is one of the best ways to experience the diverse food culture in America. Because where there is wine, there is almost always fantastic food. But, if you’ve priced out a Valentine’s or anniversary weekend in Napa … well, we know exactly what you are thinking! For lots of folks, it simply costs too much.

But take heart. Exploring the wine regions of the U.S. in your RV does not mean you have to spend your annual vacation budget on a single weekend trip. But if you’re considering which RV wine tours might suit you best, there is one membership you definitely don’t want to be without.

 

One Membership that Will Save You Big

While you can simply stay at campgrounds near wine country, an annual membership to Harvest Hosts provides you a free and delightfully quiet place to stay the night in your RV — at over 1,000 vineyards across the country. (And, of course, also a stay at thousands of other unique locations.) With their annual $99 membership, it costs less than a quarter of a single night in a four-star wine country hotel. That way, you can enjoy a trip to a wine region several times per year at a fraction of the cost. (If you are not yet a Harvest Hosts member, this link will save you 15 percent on your first year’s membership! )

 

 

Personally, we’ve stayed at lots of Harvest Hosts wineries — from North Carolina to Washington State. In doing so, we’ve learned a ton about what makes each area a fantastic grape growing region. To make the most of our Harvest Hosts membership, we often go out to an early dinner before heading to our stop for the night. Then we enjoy the sunset and a glass of wine on their patio. Sometimes, we stop by a local cheese shop, bakery, and chocolatier to pick up some fun charcuterie delights then pair them with a bottle of wine that we’ve just sampled from the winery in which we are staying the night. One night, we even got to watch the full moon rise over the vineyard! Add candles and your favorite music, and you’ve created the ultimate romantic night among the vines in your very own RV.

 

 

No. 1 Tip: Drive to Drink vs. Drink and Drive

Naturally, all this come with a friendly reminder to never ever drink and drive. The whole idea, really, is that you won’t even be tempted to. You drive to the location where you want to taste, buy, and open more wine — and there you stay. All you need to do is walk from the winery to your RV. No driving is necessary. Many hosts now offer multiple night stays too.

What’s more, some of these grape-growing regions are located in beautiful places. That means you can also explore the natural world and/or wander through historic cities, exploring the areas surrounding these unique wine regions of America is half of the fun. Many of these RV wine tours are even within a day’s drive of a national park!  

 

 

8 Regions Ripe for RV Wine Tours

Boise, Idaho: The Spud State Surprise

The Spud State is one of those places that continues to surprise! It’s not just potatoes anymore. The varied climate and topography make it a booming wine region.  The Eagle Foothills, part of the spectacular Sawtooth Range, is well-suited to growing Rhone and Bordeaux wines, specifically Syrah and Cabernet. There are several vineyards that offer a peaceful atmosphere just outside this vibrant and incredibly friendly city. Boise is also centrally located to several national parks within a one- or two-day drive:  Arches, Utah; Crater Lake, Oregon; Great Basin, Nevada; Mount Rainier, Washington; and Yellowstone, Wyoming.

 

Sedona, Arizona: An Intro to Delicious Desert Wine

The hot days and cool nights of this mountainous region of Arizona allow those Italian reds like Sangiovese, as well as Rhone Valley varietals like Syrah and Grenache, to grow particularly well in the vineyards of the Verde Valley. The Grand Canyon State is also becoming known for delicious sparkling wines, so plan a visit if you have something special to celebrate! Local Sedona culture speaks for itself, but what most don’t realize is how close this famous spiritual place is to other spectacular public lands. If you’ve never been to the Superstition Mountains, trust us when we say you are in for a Sonoran Desert treat!

 

Las Cruces, New Mexico: An Ancient Grape in the Land of Spice

Winemaking has been a New Mexican tradition for more than 500 years. It all started when Spanish priests first planted the region’s wine grapes. There are now more than 50 wineries in the Chile Capital of the World, with many of them clustered along the riverbanks of the Rio Grande. The region’s intense sun and dry climate make for powerful, complex wines which hold up well to the culinary masterpieces that New Mexican chefs dish out. While in the area, be sure to wander the streets, bars, and restaurants of old town in this historic city — and, of course, pay a visit to Carlsbad Caverns or White Sands National Parks, both located within a few hours of Las Cruces.

 

Grand Junction, Colorado: A Mountain View’s Perfect Pairing

With high-altitude terrain and reliably sunny days, the western slopes of Colorado has been a fruit-growing region for several generations and is perfect for making wine — with many of the vineyards set against a dramatic Rocky Mountain backdrop. Expect full-bodied Chardonnays and fruit-forward Merlots that will stand up to Napa’s best. Early winters allow the area to make outstanding dessert ice wines made from grapes frozen on the vine. And, of course, you are just a day’s drive from either Rocky Mountain National Park or the four corners region including Mesa Verde National Park!

 

St. Louis, Missouri: Tasting the American Rhine 

German immigrants planted the first European vines in the area over a century ago, which led to naming it the “American Rhine.” Since then, Missouri wineries and vineyards have grown where you’ll find hybrids like Vignoles, as well as native American grapes, including concord and catawba. Be sure to visit the Gateway Arch National Park while you are in the area, too!

 

Traverse City, Michigan: A Sea of Lake-Cooled Varietals

The Mitten State’s cold winters, warm summers, and glacially-tilled sandy soils near the lakes make it surprisingly similar to some parts of Europe, and an ideal location for growing wine grapes and other fruit. Just above Traverse City and situated along the 45th parallel are two peninsula’s — Old Mission and Leelanau. Dotted along these two skinny land masses extending into Lake Michigan are over 30 wineries — with Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc being just a few of the varietals that have been internationally recognized for their excellence! Ice wines are also a specialty of the region due to those early winter storms that come some years when the grapes are still hanging on the vines. Within a hour’s drive, you can enjoy several bike trails, a dune climb on the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and just about any water sport you can imagine!

 

Asheville, North Carolina: Bold Reds in the Blue Ridge

Many know Asheville as an artsy, fun city that is full of live music and great restaurants, but it also sits next to some high-quality vineyards. The warm, humid climate is perfect for growing big, bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with many of the local vineyards specializing in blends of these Old World varietals. The Yadkin Valley wine trail, located in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, also has become a significant grape growing region, including wine made from local muscadine grapes. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park while you are in the area!

 

Finger Lakes, New York: Blending the Old and New World 

Within a few hours drive of the spectacular Adirondack Mountains, the Finger Lakes Wine Country covers five counties, three wine trails, and over 3,000 square miles of endless possibilities for fun! Of all these RV wine tours, this one might have the most branches. Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes each have their own wine trails to explore with Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Blaufränkisch being just a few of the common varietals grown in this northerly climate. Local winemakers are experimenting with quite a few other grape varieties grown in both Europe and the country of Georgia. But, the fun does not stop with wine in the region, bring your kayaks to explore the lakes, cycle one of the many bike trails, or hike through some of the jaw dropping gorges nearby, with Watkins Glen gorge being one of the most famous.

Canada is known as “the Great White North” for a good reason. Much of this beautiful country is covered under a blanket of snow from November to May. Winter camping in Canada demands a level of preparedness and sense of adventure that RVers won’t need any other time of year.  That’s because although preparation makes RV living better any time of year, a Canadian winter can kill you if you aren’t properly prepared. 

 

The Two Big Mistakes People Make 

Mistake No. 1 – Not Driving Away from Bad Conditions

The first mistake people make is staying in Canada where winter weather often features  blizzards and temperatures get as cold as 40 degrees below zero. (Especially when there are warmer destinations in the south.) When you think about it, one of the best things about an RV is that it has wheels. That means you can drive it or tow it  to warm places like Florida, Texas, California or Arizona, where you can avoid winter altogether. This, of course, is know as snowbirding.    

 

Mistake No. 2 – Assuming It’s Just Too Cold to RV

Alternatively, the second mistake when RVing in Canada is thinking that you can’t RV in Canada in winter because it’s too cold. The truth is frigid winter temperatures aren’t the norm on Canada’s southwest coast. This area is renowned for its mild, rainy winter climate. Not only that, but the further west you go, the milder the climate is. For example, in Victoria, British Columbia, the average winter temperature hovers around 9 degrees Celsius in the winter months. (That’s 48 degrees Fahrenheit my American friends.) That’s as warm as Canada get in winter.

As a matter of fact, Vancouver Island (as far west as you can go in Canada) offers a mild climate that has made it a popular destination for Canadian snowbirds. But warmer winter temperatures aren’t all that Vancouver Island offers. Snowbirds love this 285 mile long island for its lush rainforests, incredible wildlife viewing, and pristine sandy beaches.  

However, there are still lots of reasons why people choose to RV in the Great White North in winter. Many Canadian snowbirds, who normally head south for winter, may delay their annual migration south until the Canadian dollar increases in value. But with that being said, many skiers, snowboarders, and other  winter sport enthusiasts, find having a cozy “chalet on wheels” very practical. And then there’s the diehard camping fanatics, who enthusiastically brave the elements, to enjoy the peaceful and bug-free atmosphere of winter camping in Canada. Other RVers use their RVs as affordable accommodation at remote job sites. Or as a portable guest cottage. Or as a full-time home on wheels.

With the right RV, the right equipment,and a lot of preparation, RV camping can be an easy, affordable and fun winter activity, wherever you happen to be in Canada. 

So, are you ready to discover everything you need to know about winter camping in Canada? Let’s dig in!

 

What to Pack for RV Camping in Winter

If you’re going winter camping in Canada, there are some items that are essential to have for both comfort and survival. This list includes basic items you need to have, but you’ll want to add to it according to your own specific needs.

 

Cold-Weather Clothing 

Dressing in layers is the most important part of staying warm when it’s cold out. You’ll need a base layer, a mid layer, and an outer layer. Each clothing layer will help trap and retain body heat to keep you warm and toasty. Merino wool is the best choice for your base layer, and every layer on top of that should be wool or synthetic. Your outer layer can be a puffy down or synthetic jacket. 

For most of Canada, you’ll need to have a hood that has adjustable cords. Moisture absorbing materials should always be avoided since moisture keeps you cool. That means don’t pack cotton clothing (like T-Shirts and jeans) because cotton absorbs moisture instead of wicking it away.  Here’s what each camper in your party will need.  

• Underwear
• Moisture wicking Merino socks
• Moisture wicking Merino long underwear
• Synthetic fleece or wool clothing for mid layers
• A puffy, waterproof jacket to retain body heat and protect against external moisture
• Waterproof snow pants.
• Knit hat (known as a toque in Canadian)
• Gloves 
• Scarf to keep your throat warm.
• Insulated winter boots 

 

Essential Winter Gear

Here are our recommendations for essential gear you’ll want to have with you when you camp in winter.  This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it has all the essentials specifically geared for winter camping. 

• Propane
• Space heater
• Heated water hose 
• Heat tape and insulation
• Tank heater for each holding tank
• RV skirting
• Reflectix insulation for windows
• Dehumidifier
• Fire extinguisher
• Smoke and CO detectors
• First aid kit
• Extra blankets
• Fleece sheets
• Electric blanket
• A hand held hair dryer or heat gun to thaw frozen pipes.
• Portable fire pit 
• Fuel for portable fire pit
• Tire chains for RV or tow vehicle drive axle wheels and trailer

 

Choose the Right RV for Winter Camping

Winter camping in Canada’s winter temperatures is demanding. Unless you’re camping around Victoria, you’ll want to have a four-season RV. Four-season RVs have specific features which help to ensure you stay cozy while enjoying amenities that include running water in the bathroom and kitchen. Many features of an all-weather camper typically include:

• Better insulation package
• Tires rated for snow 
• Ducted heating systems that keep pipes from freezing
• Insulated basement cabinet doors 
• Double-paned windows
• Heating pads for wastewater, fresh water, and sewage tanks
• Enclosed underbelly
• Heated flooring

 

Stay on the Road with Snow Tires and Tire Chains

Snow tires or tire chains help provide traction on roads made slippery by snow and ice. If you plan to drive your rig anywhere in Canada in winter, you should have them. The mountainous province of British Columbia requires all vehicles to have snow tires between October 1 and April 30. Also, tire chains are a legal requirement in the province of British Columbia for vehicles over 16,000 pounds during those same months.  

 

Prevent Water from Freezing in Your RV

Some RVers who camp in colder temperatures winterize their water system and carry bottled water onboard. The question that begs to be asked is: “Where’s the fun in that?” After all, the reason most of us have an RV is to have all the comforts of home with us. The truth is, there are things you can do to keep water flowing in your RV, even when it’s cold outside.

• Wrap city water connection with heated pipe insulation.
• Connect to city water using a heated water hose.
• Use RV skirting to keep the temperature under the RV above freezing .
• Add tank heating pads to exposed holding tanks.
• Use an RV sewage hose heater to prevent sewage from freezing and forming the dreaded poopsicle.
• If you’re camping where there’s no city water connection, keep your freshwater tank full so that it’s less likely to freeze.

 

Employ RV Skirting

Your RV will stay a lot warmer in winter if you use some form of RV skirting to block cold air and wind from getting underneath your RV.  There are different ways to do this and it doesn’t have to cost a lot.  RV skirting can be custom made or constructed of insulating boards.  Here are the top ways to skirt an RV.

 

Custom Insulated Vinyl RV Skirting (~ $800-$3,000) 

Insulated vinyl RV skirting is a fantastic option for RVers who park in one spot for several months over winter and then travel in the RV when it’s warm out. That’s because it can be rolled up and stored in basement cabinets when you travel. However, vinyl RV skirting is usually installed using snaps or twist locks that require drilling into the exterior cladding of your RV. 

The best skirting is custom fitted to your specific RV make, model, and year, but you can also buy a custom made DIY RV skirting kit online to do the installation yourself.  Here are three companies that custom make RV skirting.

• EZ Snap Direct. Custom, no-drill DIY RV skirting that installs using no-drill snaps.
• RV Skirting.com. Custom RV skirting with a patented nail-down strap system.
• The Skirting Company. Specialize in custom RV skirting for full time RVers.

 

Air Skirts (~$2,000-$3,000)

Air Skirts are insulating air bags that resemble giant cigar tubes. They are made to fit snugly underneath RVs of varying dimensions. They’re an easy DIY because you simply put them in place and inflate them using an air compressor. Like custom vinyl skirting, Air Skirts can be a fantastic, portable option for those who spend winter in one place and travel in the warmer months.

 

DIY RV Skirting (~ $100-$500)

It’s easy to make your own RV skirting from insulating foam board, plywood, Reflectix bubble insulation, or any combination of these. This DIY upgrade requires little skill, other than measuring and cutting. Some building supply retailers even offer onsite material cutting services, so you don’t need your own saw or blade.   

 

Prioritize a Great RV Heating System

No matter where you RV in the Great White North, you’ll want to have an operational RV heating system. It’s a good idea to service your RV furnace and propane system before winter hits. This means cleaning the furnace itself as well as air ducts and using a manometer to ensure there are no propane leaks. 

You’ll also want to have lots of propane on hand and a means to keep propane bottles warm enough to keep the propane from freezing. If you RV in Canada, you owe it to yourself to invest in an RV propane bottle blanket that will keep your propane evaporating (and flowing) even in the coldest weather.

 

Why Consider Winter Camping in Canada

Winter RVing in Canada can be a lot of fun and very rewarding. However, like everything else in life, preparation is key here. When it comes to RVing in cold temperatures, this includes having a four-season RV equipped with snow tires. It’s also important to have the right gear with you, so you can stay comfy and cozy.  

Traveling in an RV across the regions of America on the interstate can leave a person mystified. Among chain restaurants, there is a distinct lack of diversity of food. Indeed, if you were to drive on Interstate 40 from Wilmington, North Carolina to its western terminus in Barstow, California, there would only be a slight deviation in the food available just off the highway exits. However, if you deviate slightly from your intended route — following the coastline like a good snowbird this winter — you’ll find that the culinary landscape changes dramatically. Suddenly, you have access to locally sourced seafood. Which means that you can fire up some extraordinary seaside recipes — the comfort food of the weary snowbird.

It’s common knowledge that the best seafood is local. And it’s best consumed where it’s caught, by the seaside. Nothing beats sitting on a rickety picnic table near some boisterous seagulls and diving into a simple but elegantly prepared soft-shell crab sandwich — just outside of the small shack which prepared it only a half mile from the dock it was sold. Pair that with an ice-cold pilsner and some greasy french fries or hush puppies, and you’ll find yourself in the middle of a Jimmy Buffet song! 

Finding that local seafood dive is part of the fun, but with your own great seaside recipes, you can make this experience happen any time in your RV. (You could even cook the fish you catch.) For us, as a pescetarian and a vegetarian traveling the coastline, we search out places that not only offer great seafood, but also plant-based protein as well.

These five seaside recipes make both of us happy — and will be great comfort food for any snowbird hugging the coastline

 

Impossibly Good Jambalaya

This low-country favorite, hails from Cajun territory. But it is widely claimed across the Gulf Coast. We jazzed up this basic Jambalaya recipe with some vegetables, beans, additional spices, and plant-based sausage. It’s the perfect base for any type of protein you want – Andouille sausage, blackened tofu, shrimp, chicken, catfish, or plant-based meat. (We really like Impossible spicy Italian sausage for this one!)

 

 

Ingredients

2 pounds raw peeled shrimp or (4 Impossible sausages*, sliced)
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 small red onion, chopped
1 cup baby bella mushrooms, sliced
1 red bell pepper (or Green)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1 cup broccoli, chopped
1 cup cauliflower, chopped
1 15-ounce can red beans (or pinto beans), drained
1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained
1 5-ounce can Hatch green chilies, chopped
2.5 cups water
1 teaspoon veggie broth base
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce, no salt added
1 15-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon fennel seed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
1 cup long grain white rice

 

*We enjoy several plant-based sausage brands, but love Impossible for this dish. One of the major reasons is for its mouth feel. While plant-based, it is not low in fat. The coconut and vegetable oils give this sausage a satisfying burst of juicy richness. It even chars over a grill similar to traditional Andouille sausage.  If you’re looking to cut down on meats, this is one to give a try!

 

Instructions

• Roast sausages, shrimp, or other protein, in a pan or over an open flame. Keep warm, then slice.  
• In a large Dutch oven over an open fire, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, celery, and garlic, stirring frequently.
• Add the broccoli and cauliflower to the Dutch oven and sauté until al dente. 
• Add water, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilies, and all of the spices.
• Bring to a boil and add rice. Cover and simmer until rice is tender, stirring frequently so nothing sticks to the bottom.
• Add beans and protein. Cover and simmer five to seven minutes longer or until well heated, stirring frequently.

 

Good Ole Southern Hush Puppies

No trip to the coast is complete without consuming a basket of these deliciously toothy balls of fried batter. Serve hot enough to burn your fingertips in a heaping basket right in the middle of the table, alongside any number of dipping sauces, or small pats of butter, or just pop them into your mouth whole. The Kitchn recipe gave us our start, but we find that our own recipe is the one we love the best.

 

 

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups fine- or medium-grind cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
1/2 small yellow onion
1 large egg
1 cup buttermilk
4 cups peanut or vegetable oil, for deep frying
Salted butter, for serving

 

Instructions

• Prepare a draining plate with several layers of paper towels.
• Prepare dry ingredients.
• Prepare wet ingredients and add to the dry.
  Grate onion into the batter, and mix well. Let stand for 15 min. 
• Add enough peanut oil until you have 1 1/2 inches of oil in the pan, and heat to frying temperature.  
• With a tablespoon, or small ice-cream scoop. If you want to get fancy, place a golfball-sized lump of batter into the oil. 
• When golden brown, remove with a slotted spoon or spatula and place on the paper towels to drain excess cooking grease.

 

Dutch Oven Maryland Crabcake 

People will argue about their favorite crab cakes, but I’m a strict East Coaster here and will always go with Maryland. The large lumps of crab seasoned to perfection aren’t overpowered by anything, so their sweet fleshy texture and taste can shine through. Just enough crackers or bread crumbs to hold them altogether and you’ve got yourself a real treat! We made our beginning with a recipe from Chef Dennis, but we’ve made a few changes to suit our tastes.

 

 

 

Ingredients 

1 pound fresh jumbo lump crab meat* (vegetarian option below)
1 large egg
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice plus more for serving
1½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1 teaspoon fresh parsley chopped
2/3 cup cracker crumbs from around 15 saltines (or panko bread crumbs)

 

Instructions

• Whisk the mayonnaise, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
• Add the crab meat to the mixture and gently fold it into the sauce just until moistened.
• Add the cracker crumbs and parsley to the crab meat mixture and continue to gently mix the ingredients until the cracker crumbs have been incorporated into the crab meat mixture.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Divide the crab cake mixture into six portions, again with the ice cream scoop if you’re fancy. Form the crab cakes into round, slightly flattened cakes and place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Refrigerate the crab cakes until ready to bake or pan fry.
• Preheat the Dutch Oven in the fire, with coals on the lid, until it is approximately 400 degrees. (See note at bottom of article for temperature approximations.)  The RV oven is also an option, if your rig has one, or pan fry over medium heat.
• Place parchment paper into the Dutch oven and return the lid.
• Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the crab cakes reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees, using a stick thermometer.
• Remove from the oven and serve with tartar sauce, spicy aioli, lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

 

*Replacing Tofu for Crab Meat

Many vegetarians love to adapt familiar seaside recipes to accommodate their dietary needs or preferences. And firm tofu is a great stand in. It might be less expensive and satisfy that hometown hankering until you can return to the Chesapeake for the real thing, too.

• Pat dry a 1 pound block of extra firm tofu with paper towels.
• Using a box grater on the largest cheese grating side, grate the extra firm tofu.
• Add the grated tofu into the recipe steps above, substitute veganaise if desired.   
• You might want to increase the spices slightly to accommodate the tofu.

 

Mouth-Watering Crabcake Benedict

Nothing says “fancy brunch” better than an exceptional bennie. And every Sunday brunch restaurant along the seashore will serve some version of this mouth watering delight. So, why not prepare on of the best seaside recipes at your own campsite? (We adapted this recipe from giant eagle and made it our own.)

 

Ingredients

1 ounce fresh chives
2 lemons
1 pound precooked crab meat (or 1 block marinated baked tofu, grated)
4 English muffins
10 eggs
2 sticks of butter
3/4 teaspoon Old Bay’s seasoning
1 teaspoon white vinegar (for poaching)

 

Instructions

Prepare the Crab Meat!

• Slice and chop the chives
• Juice the lemons
• Toss the crab meat with half of the lemon juice, a pinch of salt and pepper, and half of the chives. 
• *Substitute marinated baked tofu for the crab meat: Grate the baked tofu into small pieces, and prepare as you would the crab meat.  

 

Whip Up Your Hollandaise Sauce

• Bring a wide pan with a few inches of water to a rolling boil.
• Whisk remaining lemon juice, egg yolks, and three tablespoons of water in a metal bowl.
• Melt butter over medium-high heat. 
• Place the bowl of the lemon/egg mixture over boiling water and then turn off the heat.
• Very slowly drizzle the butter into lemon mixture, whisking constantly, then season with 1/2 teaspoon of the old bay seasoning. 
• Set aside.

 

Poach or Coddle the Eggs

• Turn the pan of water down to a low boil, add 1 teaspoon white vinegar. 
• Crack the eggs (four at a time) into the pan of water until the whites are cooked, and the yolks are still runny (three to four) minutes, remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on a towel.
• Alternatively, we find poaching eggs to be a little fussy, so we use small silicon ramekins as the perfect device for getting perfectly shaped and prepared eggs for a benedict, though the cooking time will be longer between six to eight minutes depending on your preferred yolk style.

 

Master the Final Assembly

• Toast the English muffins while cooking the eggs. 
• Butter the muffins while hot.
• Top each muffin with a scoop of the crab or tofu mixture
• Top with one of the finished eggs.
• Drizzle Hollandaise sauce over the top.
• Sprinkle with the remaining chives and .
• Salt and pepper to taste. 

 

Serve this delightful dish with a fresh green or fruit salad.  Pair with a mimosa or bloody mary cocktails.  

 

Jack Fish — or Jackfruit — Tacos

Along the warm waters of the Gulf and East Coast, jack fish are a common sport fish. Light in texture and mildly flavored, these make the perfect taco fish. (One of those ideal seaside recipes for snowbirds!)

Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that when ripe looks like a cross between a watermelon and a hand-grenade. When mature, it has an incredible sweet taste that inspired Juicy Fruit gum. (A great gum, but not the ideal for … you know … seaside recipes.) While still green and unripe, Jackfruit produces a texture akin to shredded pork and a taste that is ready to absorb whatever you season it with, just like tofu. Jackfruit has become a popular meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans alike and several companies sell prepared shredded jackfruit in the produce section of your grocery store. We prefer unprepared jackfruit in a can from Trader Joe’s. 

 

Ingredients

1 medium red onion, chopped
1 small container of cremini or “baby bella” mushrooms, sliced
3 or 4 fillets of Jack Fish, or 2 14-ounce cans of Jackfruit
1/2 cup of Stubbs spicy barbeque sauce (or your favorite)
1/2 small purple cabbage
2 ounces spicy ranch dressing
Sharp cheddar cheese
Corn tortillas

 

Instructions

• Dice red onion and set aside.
• Slice mushrooms and set aside.
• Shred purple cabbage and set aside.
• Shred enough cheese for six to eight tacos.

 

Prepare the Jack Fish

• Over medium heat cook the Jack Fish fillets for two to three minutes per side. 
• Ensure that the fish flakes easily, but is still very moist. 
• Set aside but keep warm and covered so they don’t dry out.
• Over medium high heat, sauté 2/3 of the onion for three minutes then add mushrooms.
• Cook until onions and mushrooms have browned.
• Add barbeque sauce to the pan, turn down heat and simmer for an additional minute.
• Shred fish separately, add to the pan mix when loading the tacos.

 

Or Go with the Jackfruit Option

• Drain can and pat Jackfruit chunks dry.
• Shred the chunks using a fork and a knife.
• Cook the shredded Jackfruit in a pan over medium to high heat with cooking oil.
• When the fruit has browned, add 2/3 of the chopped onion, after three minutes add the mushrooms.
• Cook until onions and mushrooms have browned.
• Add barbeque sauce to the pan, turn down heat and simmer for an additional minute.

 

Final Prep

• Heat the tortillas on a dry pan, 30 seconds per side or until very lightly browned, set aside and keep warm.
• Dress shredded cabbage with ranch dressing to make a spicy slaw for the top of the tacos. 
• Load up the tacos with your filling choice. Top with cheddar cheese, spicy slaw, the remaining raw, diced red onion.

 

Hand and Heat Testing: A Tip for Seaside Recipes

We got this little technique from Weber Grills. Extend your palm over the charcoal at a safe distance. Imagine a soda can is standing on the cooking grate, right over the coals. If your palm was resting on the top of the can, it would be five inches from the cooking grate. That’s where you should measure the heat of charcoal, or cooking coals. Always pull your hand away from the heat before it hurts, and be sure that nothing flammable, such as a sleeve, is dangling from your arm.

If you need to pull your hand away after two to four seconds, the heat is high. Likewise, if you need to pull your hand away after five to seven seconds, the heat is medium. And if you need to pull your hand away after eight to ten seconds, the heat is low.

• High (450° to 550°F): 2 to 4 seconds
• Medium (350° to 450°F): 5 to 7 seconds
• Low (250° to 350°F): 8 to 10 seconds

 

We hope you enjoy these seaside recipes and that your future coastal adventures inspire you to try some fantastic culinary feats of your own design!