Megan | Jun 15, 2025

Summer Camping Essentials from Neighbors Mercantile Co.

There’s nothing quite like the magic of summer camping—the fresh air, crackling campfires, starry skies, and the call of adventure. Whether you're heading to the mountains, the lake, or your favorite forest hideaway, having the right gear can make all the difference. At Neighbors Mercantile Co., we’ve got a handpicked selection of camping essentials to keep you comfortable, well-fed, and ready for whatever the trail throws your way. Here are some of our top summer must-haves to pack before your next outdoor getaway.

Jetboil Cooking Systems

For quick and efficient outdoor cooking, Jetboil systems are a must-have. Their compact design and rapid boiling capabilities make meal prep a breeze at any campsite.

Cast Iron & Open Fire Cookware

Embrace traditional campfire cooking with durable cast iron cookware. Perfect for preparing hearty meals over an open flame, these tools are essential for any camping chef.

Camp Chairs

After a day of exploration, relax in comfort with sturdy and portable camp chairs. They're easy to set up and provide the perfect spot to unwind under the stars.

Lighting Solutions

Illuminate your campsite with reliable lighting options. Whether you're cooking after dark or navigating your tent, proper lighting ensures safety and convenience.

Sleep & Relax Gear

There's nothing more relaxing than swaying gently between the trees after a long day on the trail. Our collection of durable, easy-to-pack hammocks is perfect for afternoon naps, stargazing or even a full night's sleep under the open sky. Lightweight and quick to set up, they're a summer camping essential for anyone who loves lounging in nature.

Backpacking Food

Stock up on lightweight and nutritious backpacking meals. These easy-to-prepare options keep you energized during your adventures.

Man cooking a Peak meal on pickup tailgate.

No matter how you like to camp—whether it’s a quick weekend retreat or a week-long backcountry journey—having quality gear makes every moment more enjoyable. At Neighbors Mercantile Co., we believe in products that are built to last and ready for adventure. Swing by our shop or check out our camping collection online to gear up for an unforgettable summer under the stars.

Christmas Toys for Every Age at Neighbors Mercantile

Our Top Real Touch Garlands of the Season

Real touch greenery and garlands have become one of our most-loved holiday categories— and it's easy to see why. Once folks discover how realistic these greens look and feel, it's hard to go back to the shiny, plastic versions from the big-box stores. There's something nostalgic about greenery that looks freshly cut, bringing the feeling of nature and home inside, without the mess or short lifespan of the real thing.

Each year, we select a few garlands to feature as our main options— the ones that feel timeless, realistic, and easy to decorate with in any home. Since we're still growing this part of our business, it can be a bit of a gamble deciding which ones to stock most heavily, but that's part of the fun. We love the process of curating pieces that bring warmth, texture, and a touch of nostalgia to our homes.

And while we always bring in a variety, these three garlands are our top picks for 2025— each one full of realistic greenery, natural texture, and that cozy, at-home feel we all love during the holidays.

Celebrate Fall with Neighbors Mercantile!

The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and we're ready to welcome autumn with a lineup of fun, family-friendly events right here in Nappanee! At Neighbors Mercantile, fall is one of our favorite season, and we've got plenty planned to help you soak in all the cozy vibes, community fun, and small-town charm. Here's a sneak peek at what's happening this season:

📌 A Quick Note: Labor Day Hours

We love celebrating holidays with our community, but please note that Neighbors Mercantile will be closed on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. We’ll reopen with normal hours following the holiday...just in time for all the fall fun to begin!

Award-Winning Slice of Home: Laramie’s Apple Crumb Pie Recipe

Fall in Nappanee means one thing - APPLES! 🍎 From September 18-20, our town will be bustling with visitors for the Nappanee Apple Festival, a celebration of community, heritage, and of course, all things apple. Here at Neighbors Mercantile, we wanted to join in the fun by sharing a sweet slice of local history.

That slice comes from our very own General Manager, Laramie, who knows a thing or two about baking. Back in high school, she entered the Elkhart County 4-H Fair with an apple pie she perfected alongside her mother, Marla. Spoiler alert: it didn't just turn heads - it won awards!

History of Neighbors

Before Neighbors Mercantile opened its doors, we documented the journey—step by step, dust and all. From the first time we turned the key in the lock, to uncovering the building’s rich history, to naming our shop and finally welcoming our first customers, these blog posts captured the process in real time. Now, we’re sharing those original posts here so you can look back with us and see how Neighbors Mercantile came to life. This is where it all began.

The Neighbor’s Guide to Caring for Your Cast Iron

At Neighbors Mercantile, we believe a good cast iron skillet isn’t just cookware—it’s an heirloom. Whether you’re frying eggs at sunrise or searing a steak on a chilly evening, cast iron delivers that unbeatable flavor and even heat. But like any good neighbor, it needs a little care in return.

The Ultimate Father’s Day Gift Guide 2025

Handpicked Gifts from Neighbors Mercantile for Every Kind of Dad

Whether your dad is a grill master, game night champ, or tech tinkerer, Neighbors Mercantile has the perfect gift to show him just how much he means to you. Here’s your go-to guide for finding something he’ll truly love.