Don't Go Camping Without Seeing these 26 Camping Recipes First (2024)

Are you planning a camping trip and wondering what to cook over the campfire? My family tends to eat more than normal when we are in the great outdoors. Mealtime can be a highlight of the camping experience, but it’s a challenge to come up with ideas that are easy to prepare and cook over a fire. If you’re tired of the same old hot dogs and s’mores, I’ve got 25 simple and easy camping meals collected here for you.

Preparation for Campfire Cooking

Camping is a great way to get outside for fun and relaxation. If cooking outdoors seems daunting, start with making a list for supplies you need and a meal plan. There are several ways to cook outside including a grill or over the campfire. Here are a few tips for those of you who are beginners at camp cooking that will help you feel more confident.

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Basic Camp Cooking Supplies

First, make sure you have all the necessary supplies for campfire cooking. This includes a portable grill or grate, utensils like tongs and spatulas, pots and pans with lids, aluminum foil, and oven mitts. Keep your matches and lighter in a waterproof bag so they are ready when you need them. It’s also useful to bring along some basic ingredients such as oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other favorite seasonings.

Make a Camp Meal Plan

Once you get to your campsite, there is no running to the grocery for something you forgot. Once you have your camping recipes, create an actual camping meal planner. You’ll have a plan in place and know that you have EVERYTHING you need with you from camping skewers to salt and pepper. I’ve made this easy for you with a free camp menu.

Is a Grill or Fire Better for Camp Cooking

There are several ways to cook your meals while camping. Cooking over an open fire, using a camp stove, or a portable grill are three popular methods. There is NOT a right or wrong way to cook outdoors. You will probably use a combination of these methods depending on your campsite. A portable grill or a camp stove is the most reminiscent of home but still requires planning as these are usually smaller than what you are used to. Cooking over an open fire takes a little bit of practice and trial and error, but don’t let that discourage you. The first time I took my kids camping we just turned every ruined recipe and bug bite into a giggle-filled mantra “That’s just part of camping”.

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NOTE: The camping recipes below are grouped into categories to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Easy Meals for Camping

When you’re planning your camp menu, remember that some of your favorite family standbys can transition easily into camp recipes, too. Grilled foods are obviously easy if you have an iron grate on your open campfire. Other classic foods such as sloppy joes or tacos also work great when camping. Pre-made sides and snacks that travel well are perfect for the outdoors too.

We ♥ camp food!

Camping Food Dinners

• Blackened Catfish
• Garlicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
• Campfire Nachos
• Honey Pork Chops and Grilled Peaches
• How to Make a Walking Taco (In a Bag)
• New York Strip Steak Recipe with Rosemary Garlic Butter

Click here for more camping dinner recipes….

Food on a Stick Recipes

• Shrimp Skewers for Tacos
• Chicken and Vegetable Kebobs
• Find more skewered food ideas here.

Camping Foil Packet Recipes

• Greek Beef and Cauliflowers Foil Packets
• Salmon and Asparagus Foil Dinners
• Find more foil camping recipes here.

Cast Iron and Dutch Oven Recipes

• Dutch Oven Taco Soup(vegan)
• Peach Dessert Pizza
• Frikadeller and Potatoes (German Hamburger Steak)
• Sausage and Egg Hash
• Find more cast iron recipes here.

Pie Iron Recipes

• Classic Grilled Cheese
• Pie Iron Tacos
• Mutter Butters Dessert Pie
• Find more pie iron recipes here.

Camping Breakfasts

• Green Chile Omelette
• Sausage Breakfast Quesadillas
• Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos
• Find more camping breakfast recipes here

Camping Side Dish Recipes

Vegan Camping Recipes

Camping Desserts

It can’t be a great campout without a fireside dessert.

• Here’s How to Make This Easy Chocolate Campfire Cake in an Orange
• Campfire Banana Boat S’mores – 8 Flavor Combos You Need to Try
• Honey Banana S’mores
• Find more camping dessert ideas

Camping Snacks

Here are a few products and additional resources to help you plan your upcoming camping trip. I found them really helpful and I think you will too.

• Tips for Planning a Camping Menu
• The Ultimate Camping Cookbook: Recipes for Grilling, Cast Iron, Dutch Ovens and Moreby Rebecca Permar

For more camping information, see:

• 4-Day Camping Menu with Classic Family Favorite Recipes
• Zero to Camp Hero: Camp Meal Planner Kit
• How to Keep Food Cold When Camping – 10 Tips for Car Campers

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