Cold evenings by the campfire call for something warm and cheerful. A cozy mug and a little imagination can turn an ordinary night in your RV into something memorable. These winter cocktails are easy to make, use simple ingredients, and require almost no cleanup. You won’t need a bar setup—just a few basics, and maybe a campfire flickering nearby.
Noni’s Campfire Cocoa (Adult Hot Cocoa)
To make this rich and creamy drink, start by preparing one packet of hot cocoa with about six ounces of hot milk. Stir it until smooth, then add one ounce of peppermint schnapps if you like a cool minty taste, or Baileys if you prefer something creamy. Finish by topping your mug with whipped cream and sprinkling some crushed peppermint or a pinch of cocoa powder on top. This winter cocktail feels like a hug in a cup—sweet, warm, and perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors.
The RV Noni Nog
Pour six ounces of chilled eggnog (we prefer Borden’s) into your favorite mug or tumbler. Add 1 ounce of spiced rum (my favorite) or bourbon, then gently stir. Dust the top with a bit of nutmeg or cinnamon for that classic winter flavor. This drink is smooth and comforting, a creamy blend that tastes like winter camping done right. It’s one of those winter cocktails that looks fancy but takes less than a minute to make.
Texas Winter Cider
Warm six ounces of apple cider in a small saucepan or in the microwave until it’s nice and hot but not boiling. Remove from the heat source and pour into your favorite mug. Add one ounce of Fireball or another cinnamon-flavored whiskey to the mug of warm cider. Drop a cinnamon stick into the mug to stir with and let the flavors mix for a minute. The spicy heat of the whiskey blends with the sweet cider to make a drink that’s pure Texas comfort in a mug. When you’re ready to head out for a sunset drive, make a double batch, pour it into a thermos, and enjoy it on the go.
Doo Doo’s Irish Coffee
If you follow RV Noni, you know that Doo Doo is my husband (gotta love those grandparent names the kids give us).
Brew a fresh cup of coffee —about 6 ounces. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to the coffee and stir until dissolved. Pour in one ounce of Irish whiskey and mix again. Spoon a layer of whipped cream over the top, letting it melt slightly into the coffee. Each sip gives you the bold taste of coffee, the smooth warmth of whiskey, and a slight sweetness from the cream. Among winter cocktails, this one is a favorite for late morning on chilly camping trips.
Campfire Toasty Toddy
Heat six ounces of water until hot but not boiling. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey until fully dissolved. Add one ounce of bourbon and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, then stir again. The result is soothing and lightly sweet with just enough citrus to brighten it. Sip it slowly and let it warm you from the inside out. It’s one of those winter cocktails that makes a cold evening feel cozy and calm.
Simple Garnishes
Little touches can make a big difference. A swirl of whipped cream, a handful of marshmallows, or a cinnamon stick adds a bit of decadence while camping. Fresh orange or lemon slices work nicely, too. Keep it simple—these extras don’t take much space but make every mug feel special.
Final Sip
Winter camping has a magic all its own—quiet mornings, crisp air, and evenings that invite you to slow down. Enjoy one of these winter cocktails and make those moments into something special. Whether you pour Noni’s Campfire Cocoa, Doo Doo’s Irish Coffee, or a simple toasty toddy, you’ll have a drink that’s easy to make and perfect for the season.