Ice cream is the perfect treat on a scorching summer afternoon, yet bringing one along on camping trips may prove challenging due to limited space and weight restrictions in an RV or car. Luckily, you can still make homemade ice cream using minimal equipment.

This activity is perfect for kids of any age! They can assist in the process, then enjoy eating the delicious treat they created together! All that’s necessary to create delicious homemade ice cream are large and small plastic storage bags, cream (or milk), sugar, flavoring (fruit, chocolate or spice–whichever strikes your fancy), ice cubes and rock salt. Feel free to add other ingredients such as berries, peanut butter or cookies for additional flavors!

Ice Cream in a Bag

Ice cream in a bag can be easily prepared but requires some advance planning. Be sure to have all of the required supplies at camp. Furthermore, avoid making this treat on hot days as this heat could melt the ice cream!

It will also require some type of insulated cooler, such as the IceMule backpack cooler. These soft-sided and insulated bags can keep the temperature down for hours on end!

Start by mixing together cream, sugar and vanilla in one of the smaller bags before sealing it securely. Next, transfer this bag inside a gallon-sized bag filled with ice and rock salt as this technique known as double-bagging can prevent leaks in your ice cream production.

Once your mixture is in the bags, seal and store in the freezer. Checking on it every thirty minutes or so and stirring will allow the ice cream to achieve its optimal texture and flavor as it freezes.

This recipe only produces one quart, so if you plan on camping with more than just yourself, make multiple batches to satisfy their appetite! There are endless variations you can try when creating homemade ice cream during camping trips; get creative and have fun experimenting! Who knows; maybe convincing friends and family away from making their own s’mores could open them up to homemade treats such as this – who knows… they might become converts too!

Ingredients for Different Flavors of Ice Cream

Vanilla

Chocolate

Strawberry

Of course, feel free to add any accoutrements you like, whether it be cacao nibs, sprinkles, coconut flakes, etc. The skies the limit! Go wild and experiment with different flavor combinations.