Easter camping combines Australia’s love of the outdoors with cheerful optimism that it’s not going to rain the whole time. It’s the perfect opportunity to get family and friends together for outdoor socialising and entertaining before the days get too short and cold and life starts to move indoors.

It’s in this spirit we explore why Easter is the best time to camp and provide some tips on how to make the time spent outdoors successful and enjoyable for everybody!

Weather

Autumn weather is actually a great reason to go camping. The days could potentially still be sunny, with the nights getting cooler, which makes for a more pleasant sleeping experience. Plus there’s nothing better than sleeping under the stars for a great nights sleep.

TIP: If the nights look like being really cold, you may wish to consider investing in a self-inflating sleeping mat over the traditional air mattress. They’re a bit more expensive but they will offer you more insulation from the cold that seeps up from the ground.

Fire

The campfire is pretty much why we go camping, and in autumn it’s an essential ingredient for huddling around warming, drying and generally cheering everybody up. There’s nothing better than getting a fire going and boiling the billy first-thing on a crisp, misty morning.  But always check first whether your camping ground allows open fires before you go.

TIP: It’s always a good idea to bring your own firewood, as a lot of campsites don’t provide any, or if they do, it can be pretty expensive.  So bringing your own or picking up a bag or two from the servo on the way is a handy option and should save you money.

Food

Beyond the classic bacon and eggs or baked beans, camp cooking should be simple but delicious, as all the fresh air makes everyone extra-hungry!  A Bedourie pot (also called a camp oven) is a big pot with a lid and handle suspended over the fire. This makes it easy to cook big, hearty one pot stews, roasts, or why not try your hand at classic Aussie damper? Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients:

2 cups self raising flour

1 tablespoon butter or margarine

1 cup water (approx)

1/4 cup milk 

1/2 teaspoon salt

Method:

Mix flour and salt into a large bowl. Sifted if possible.

Rub the butter through the flour until crumbly.

Gradually stir in water and milk

Knead the bread on a floured board until smooth. Make a ball and flatten slightly.

Allow to stand for 5-10 minutes.

Cooking:

1. Place buttered aluminum foil on the bottom of the pot and put the damper on top.
2. With the lid on, pile coals on the lid.
3. Cook over coals (not flames). It should take about 30 minutes to cook. It should be golden brown when done. Give it a 'tap' on the top and bottom. It will sound hollow when cooked.
4. Why not add topping for a damper pizza? Cook for 15 mins, and toppings and put back over the coals for a few more minutes.

TIP: A head torch is very handy when cooking at night, as it frees up your hands! Strap it to a water bottle when you’re finished for an extra lantern.

Beverages

It’s hard to argue that the most memorable times are spent around the campfire with with good friends and a Bundy and Cola. A well-stocked Esky can make even the most trying weather conditions bearable. Some simple mixed drinks like Bombay Sapphire & Tonic or Gentleman Jack and Apple are great for sunny afternoons, while a bottle of Tintara Geology Shiraz or a heart-warming Wild Turkey American Honey are real crowd-pleasers, guaranteed to brighten even the chilliest evening. Or just keep it classic with XXXX Gold. Check out our Specials page for some more ideas, or chat with a Cellarbrations staff member for their recommendations.

TIP: Freeze some water bottles and chuck in the Esky as icepacks, then use as drinking water.

Disconnect to reconnect

It’s easy to forget, but the biggest advantage to camping for a few days is being able to switch off, and rediscover nature. Bushwalking with your mates, fishing or just having a quick dip in a refreshing swimming hole, while leaving your cares and hairdryer behind you, can help you reset and escape the daily grind.

TIP: Leave the iPads and laptops, switch off the phones, lie in a hammock and enjoy the serenity!