Camper – Two People on an Adventure

Adventures, Campgrounds, Camping Essentials, cooking, Travel, Uncategorized

Fathers Day Perfect Camping Gifts

June 4, 2025June 7, 2025 Patricia Pickens

Father’s Day is just around the corner, everyone is looking for something Dad doesn’t have! What could he use or what has he asked for before?

Making camping easy , fun and hassle free is what taking life easy is all about. Having things available to help with that, well, makes the experience even more enjoyable.

Not everyone likes to go camping and have to cook every meal. I love to cook while camping, but, certainly not every meal. Having the tools at hand makes preparation quick .

I used to be the one who made several trips inside the camper, always forgetting something. One of the best things we have found is this useful caddy, for storing utensils, spices, paper towels and more.

BBQ Grill and Picnic Caddy

Right now it’s 10% off https://amzn.to/4mO3JPP

We have a few tables we set up at our site to use for the ice maker, radio and more. This table makes having or using an outdoor kitchen more manageable. With zipper. Posited to stow away dishes, flatware, napkins and daytime snacks. I would never leave door in it overnight or unattended.

Easy to fold away for carrying and for camper or truck storage.

Camping table with storage

Extendable table with storage https://amzn.to/4kqZuIi

I’m not sure hi ow many times we have used this next item at camp, but, at home it has become invaluable. We use all Ryobi tools because the batteries are interchangeable. You can see me blowing off our rug at the campsite, small pebbles and leaves are no match for me! I’ll Link it below too, but, our fave is this Ryobi battery operated fan.

Recently we had a power outage due to tornadoes. It saved us during a slightly warm evening . Useful for those who boondock too! There is a shelf sitting one and one that clamps. Both could be handy depending on your situation.

This one has the battery out which includes an extra charger, perfect if you’re already a Ryobi fan….pun intended lol.

The clip on is perfect for bunk areas in a camper where an extra breeze is needed or for those women over fifty who get the hot flashes like myself. Either way, it’s sure to do the trick

Small enough to carry under the belly of our 16 foot Wolf Pup, I love this portable leaf blower , easy to use and lightweight. does the job we need for our camp area to keep it clean.

The most recent lifesaver is a power inverter. I never understood what these were until our home power went out form the recent North Alabama tornadoes. Granted, only six hours, but , this was the handiest tool of all. Charge your phones, power lamps and much more from the battery pack. We have extra power supplies so we are always prepared. A great gift for the man or woman who has everything. They may not think to buy this for themselves.

This non Ryobi but compatible inverter has a two pack available now. One for home and one for the camper. At just $59.99 for a limited time, you can’t miss!

The next item is the most used at our campsite . Our Blackstone griddle does everything we need for breakfast and dinner. We snack at lunchtime, how about you?

We have had ours for four years and absolutely could not be happier . Surface area is enough for us and a few guests . We have the stand , but, you can use on a table like a concrete one available at most campgrounds.

There are many sizes and options available, this is ours along with the legs.

If you don’t have outside speakers on your camper or you’re just chilling on a lake for a fishing day, this little JBL speaker comes in handy great sound at a great price!

As often as we use our phone, we have multiple charges in varying places. This retractable charger is handy. The cords aren’t hanging out everywhere and you could also use it inside your camper as well as your tow vehicle.

Want a comfy chair, even for the biggest guy? This one fits the bill. A gift to my husband three years ago, the size does matter. It’s large enough for two kids or a larger person. Up to 400lb capacity and a handy side table to hold the phone or binoculars.

These are just a few of our favorites we have purchased and used. If you decide to purchase for your Dad, friend, grandpa or yourself,we do earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate.

Have a great day celebrating Dad, Grandpa and all those step up dads out there!

Adventures, Campgrounds, Camping Essentials, cooking, Travel, Uncategorized, Website

Camper Must Haves Amazon Hot Deals and Valentine Picks

February 8, 2025February 19, 2025 Patricia Pickens

What’s your sweetie need this Valentines Day?

Buy something they will really use while enjoying the great outdoors .

I often see posts on Facebook in camper groups about what are the must haves when you were first starting out with your new camper. Everyone always suggests camping in the driveway for the first time and go with what you have already in there. This is a wonderful idea and exactly what we did. You will start to see your needs as you do your daily tasks. What types of items will be essential for your first camping trip? Read through to find out more.

As an Amazon associate any links that I provide in my blog will direct you to the Amazon site. Purchase is made may provide me with a small incentive if you make a purchase through that link. Click any of the photos to start shopping for your camper finds.

Amazon Camping Must Haves includes this wonderful grill set that has everything you need!

We typically go where there is water and electric hook up , occasionally we Boondock when we are out west on BLM lands. We prefer to cook outside and only inside when it’s raining. So what we have for a cooking basics is very important to how we love to cook. We keep storage straightforward and simple. Everything has to stack beneath the dinette and, items we use to prep must be collapsible. We have managed this quite well so far!

Three years ago for my birthday, my wonderful husband got the Blackstone 22 inch griddle. I prefer this over any other cooking method while at the campground have you tried it? What do you think? I do breakfast, like frittatas, hash browns and sausage with plenty of room to move things around for their own space.n There are numerous accessories for this grill and other Blackstone versions. We have the griddle stand which enables mobility to a picnic table if you choose.

We also have a vintage Coleman camp stove, two burner with propane can hookup. My husband used this one as a child. We recommend everyone have this as a survival tool as well.

Essential for everyday campers or backpackers

We have an assortment of kitchen tools, and we got a couple of sets that we carry with us for camping that we got as wedding gifts four years ago . It has a variety of tools for any type of grills. Funny story on that, some people did not believe what we had on our Amazon wedding registry. It was all camping items. After all, we were in our mid fifties and had all that home decor stuff. We were ready for fun items.

This one has everything you could possibly need for cast-iron cookware or grill top. If you’re taking a charcoal grill with you that has the grid top. You could use this as well. Brush spatula meat, fork, tongs, corn, skewers, and so much more we find it to be the ultimate set.

https://amzn.to/3ViE45P

We keep clean up easy with a collapsible dishpan and dish drainer. Fold it flat and stow it away!

There are so many ways to stay organized when you’re camping. If you’re not already a prepared chef, it can be hard to carry things in and out if you love to cook outside. We started with a tray, passing it through the door. How many times must we go in and out for one meal? So, an outdoor kitchen or storage area has saved the day. Keeps everything clean and dust free and at hand. Your tools, plates and seasoning are at your fingertips.

Let’s get organized!

We recommend this one , because it has roll up covers on compartments and keeps critters out of your belongings. A sturdy area for your Blackstone too. We love to see raccoons and squirrels when we camp, but, who needs those pesky buggers trying to mess with your utensils and more?! We only use this with food inside during awake time. Otherwise, you’re just inviting Rocky and friends to the party, am I right?

Whatever you love to do in the great outdoors, hiking, relaxing or just getting away, remember ……” Take Life Easy from Home to Camp”

Have a great day!

Patty and David The Wayward Travellers

Adventures, Campgrounds, Travel

What’s Your Place of Solitude?

May 25, 2024May 25, 2024 Patricia Pickens

There’s a commercial from Progressive where a girl interrupts two people speaking, so she can complete her social media post. In the now generation of “ all about me “ , this is what comes to mind. These unhidden gems, people have discovered , then , they show up! Take over a beautiful location, previously unspoiled , want to act like they just discovered it. Make it their own and create noise, buildings and traffic.

“ practicing gratitude, manifesting abundance “

We discovered our current camping location because of good friends, who had been fishing and camping here for forty years. It’s our local place of solitude. I need to be near water to be peaceful, it slows down the pace.

Found the hammock stand with side table #founditonamazon here!

This property has had several names over the years as well as a few owners. We’ve only been camping here four years. It was a KOA for a short time , now Beyonder Getaway. They want to add more to make it a destination location. More sites, perhaps a marina and more activities. This they hope will bring in more people. Choose the right activities, prices and proper site maintenance , that will certainly help. The bath houses are not bad with multiple toilets and two separate showers for each gender. They installed new shower heads which helped a great deal .

We have few campgrounds close enough to home where we can “ getaway” and be a short trip home or to work. This location been great for us a couple times each year for camping close to home. Nestled in Mallard Creek area on Joe Wheeler Lake, part of the Tennessee river. It’s on a peninsula and I’ll include a map location and camp site map too.

Fishing is fantastic as my friend Jim and his buddies can attest.

I definitely recommend Beyonder for those passing through, it’s a short trip to I 65 through Alabama or east / west on highway 72. A great family place with horses, beach, zip lining , boat rentals and more. We prefer the less busy time through the week, they offer discounts for Mon-Thurs stays .

Offer for 15% off Mon-Thursday- Call to reserve and guarantee rates.

They have added many campsites in the last two years and have several cabins if you don’t have an RV of any kind. Tent camping down by the water is a “ roughing it “ option on the property.

Remember, wherever you travel….

On your way from

PEACE ☮️✌️

Adventures, Campgrounds, Travel, Uncategorized

Camping is Here Again Happy Halloween

October 31, 2023November 8, 2023 Patricia Pickens

It’s been a while since I have written anything, we have had quite the whirlwind of a summer. More to come later on that subject.

May is normally a month that we go camping, and stay about a week to be near our friends who fish the entire four weeks they’re camped. Fish fries, campfires, paddle boarding , nature and great friends! Always a special time with Jim, Pam and anyone who comes along to join the party.

https://amzn.to/4628xHP

Click link above ! Produces plenty of ice

This location is convenient to home, less than 45 minutes, easy if working or when mom comes to spend the day.

We made our plans for the local KOA ( now Beyonder ) May is also David’s birthday month so we love to spend time there during that special event. We try to get the same spot as very time, most times we do!

This campground was recently purchased by BeyonderGetaway with few changes . It is still our favorite local campground and I will link the new owners information in case you would be interested. I’ve reviewed the KOA in north Alabama on Google and several other sites. It is full of amenities, from horseback riding, kayaking, boat rental, fishing, playgrounds, zip lining and a community pavilion. New reservations for us start on October 30 during Halloween!

If you’re traveling the southeastern United States , it’s just over the border from Tennessee into Alabama. Two and a half hours south of Nashville, thirty minurtes from Huntsville, very close to large cities and lovely small towns.

We’re here, it’s breezy and cold. Forecasted to be 26 degrees in the am, I’ll take the 50 degrees and start n right now.

I’m always up early at camp, this time, there was a wonderful thing happening! Check out the thousands of birds who came for breakfast of brim! I couldn’t tell what the birds were, but, it was spectacular! They covered a large portion of Mallard Creek.

We brought candy with us ,just in case there are ghouls and ghosts about tonight. We’ve decorated our site with pumpkins, heads and witches!

Finished carving!

Cackling witch !!

https://amzn.to/49eMh09 #founditonAmazon

Happy Halloween 🎃💀👻🧙🏼‍♀️☠️🧟‍♂️🧌🤡🕷️🦇🧛🏻‍♂️👺😈🕸️👽🏕️ have a great day!!

Adventures, Campgrounds, National Parks, Restaurants, State Parks, Travel

America the Beautiful

September 5, 2022September 21, 2022 Patricia Pickens

Hello again, I admit, I am skipping around a little, bypassing other trips to get this one posted. This was one of the most magnificent trips we have taken to date. We werescheduled to get married in October, as everyone remembers, Covid happened in March 2020. At that time, we were in Florida visiting Davids’s parents, soon after we realized, we would be visiting family more over the next year.

In May, once we gathered all our plans for the wedding, we decided on who was going to walk me down the aisle. We had both been married before, me never having a real wedding. My Dad wasn’t going to be available since he had passed away a few year before in 2017. My niece was visiting, my great niece that is, Bella, we love when that little girls visits with us. We try to get her involved in crafts, outdoors and cooking. This day though, we had another plan. I wanted to check in with my friend Jim Brown, he worked with me at Academy Sports and Outdoors, we had both left the company at this point. He wanted to officially retire, I changed retailers. Jim was one of greatest inspirations when it came to travel. He and his wife Pam had a camper, he always showed me pics of places they had been, beautiful mountains and sunsets and weird places they had seen. Our goal was to get travel advice about places to see on our next trip.

The planned trip was to be one before our wedding, to Wyoming and South Dakota. Our plan was to camp on our longest journey yet with the Patty Wagon, David named it by the way. Jim and Pam had taken this trip, by a different path, but the destinations were going to be the same. I told Jim we wanted to come visit for info and guidance. He obliged willingly. An opportunity to show us photos and brochures and share some of the pamphlets we could review before leaving on our trip. We got to Jims, Bella alongside us, he already has all the info layed out for viewing. I am not sure how long we were there, but by the time we finished we had new goals. We also could not leave his house without completing one other detail, the real reason behind us visiting that day. You see, Jim was the person I wanted to walk me down the aisle for our wedding. We had become close friends over the years, and he was who came to mind. Because Jim is who he is, and rarely says no to someone, he agreed. David filmed me asking Jim, some tears were shed and I knew I made the right choice.

Getting a camper ready for a cross country trip is no small undertaking. We had been on several small trips, local campgrounds, family in Kentucky and to neighboring state Tennessee. All relatively close and knew the location. Our questions were, will the truck withstand the mountains, were campsites going to be available, will we get eaten by a bear? We only had one reservation, aside from the bear part that was. A reservation in Spearfish South Dakota, for three nights at the Spearfish city campground. We chose it based on location, you know that’s everything, not just for house hunting. It’s close to Crazy Horse, the never-ending monument. What a great place to visit and the history and dedication by one man’s family to it’s completion. We would be close to Mount Rushmore , Custer State Park a beautiful place to view, also, that is where buffalo roam. Yep, this was where we wanted to stay for three days. We chose wisely what a beautiful campground. Extremely well maintained, friendly staff and beautiful surroundings.

These are pictures taken at our campsite, that’s me in the hammock! Rocks that were left from previous campers, our chairs for viewing , rocks I wish I collected and the stream. A beautiful location for relaxing , claiming rocks and seeing flying objects.

We were definitely set up to camp, but, honestly, we ate out every morning at a local restaurant. The omelets were amazing, I usually make those when we camp, but, theirs…let me link their info here, the food was amazing for breakfast and dinner, at least three of them! The Millstone Family Restaurant is just a normal family fare spot, but, we found it very appetizing and delicious.

Now, had we not eaten out those three days, I would have used all my supplies. I want to give you a rundown of those items, I always set up first. In the three years we have had the camper, we have come to know what we can take with us because of space allowances. A kitchen set up is crucial and I have it going on at the campsite.

Collapsible items are easily carried and stored, and yes, mostly from Amazon! I have many purchases we have made to make it that simple for us.

I will show you some of those products after the breakfast pic, getting hungry?

My camping style is let’s make it easy but let’s eat fantastic! Like we’re at home, it can be done. You just have to plan and be well organized. I do both very well. One of my favorite things though is this map, I got it for David the Christmas of 2019 to track our progress across the states. I have these cute flag push pins to track locations, prettiness and restaurants!! Get you a map, whether it’s a magnet one for your camper, or like ours, on a big corkboard in the office. You won’t regret it, and you will create new goals.

 Tracking where we've been, one trip at a time! #founditonAmazon

I love camper designed stuff! These bowls are cute and useful, and they match my melamine dinnerware too. Look at the little pattern on them, I find a use for them every camp trip, whether it’s for Pico de Gallo that David makes, prep for fajitas or a salad, they work and store great!

 My wonderful camp bowls with cute design #founditonAmazon

 Our melamine dinnerware set 
#founditonAmazon

We did stay in Spearfish three nights, beautiful weather for flying saucers. The skies are so unobstructed, so clear and so dark. One night, by the fire, about midnight, I in my hammock and pa in his cap, no wait, wrong story. I was in the hammock he was in his chair, we both were looking up in this dark sky, unobstructed when one of us says, ” what is that? ” Really far off, too far to be a jet, maybe a satellite, maybe the shuttle? It looked like it could have been a satellite, but the path was not direct. Kind of wobbly, like a loose superball, bouncing around with no direction or a dog’s Chuck It toys, that is random and erratic. We didn’t know, but we both saw something. Very bright, extremely distant and definitely unidentified. We didn’t know, so, we continued on with our adult beverages.

And, hey, if like me, you gather rocks while camping, and paint them as I enjoy, here are some of the supplies I use. Who knows, you may be the next Bob Rocks!

 50 Piece paint brush set 
#founditonAmazon

 Mandala dot tools 
#founditonAmazon


Brush organizer #founditonAmazon

On the next episode of Two People on an Adventure, go to Mount Rushmore with us! Just a heads up, I cried coming around the mountain !