Camping trips are a great way to enjoy nature and spend time with family or friends. Food plays a big part in making these outdoor adventures fun and memorable.

With the right recipes, you can eat well even when you’re far from your kitchen. You don’t need to be a master chef to make tasty meals while camping.

There are many simple dishes you can cook over a campfire or portable stove. From quick breakfasts to hearty dinners, you have lots of options.

These easy recipes will help you eat well without spending too much time on food prep during your trip.

1. S’mores Dip

S’mores dip is a tasty and easy campfire treat. You can make it in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Start by melting butter in the skillet. Add chocolate chips and let them melt.

Top with marshmallows and cook until they’re brown and gooey.

For extra flavor, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on the bottom of the skillet before adding chocolate. You can also add nuts on top after cooking.

Serve your s’mores dip warm with graham crackers or pretzels for dipping. Be careful, the skillet will be hot!

2. Campfire Nachos

Campfire nachos are a tasty and simple meal for your next outdoor adventure. You can make them over a fire or on a grill.

Start by layering tortilla chips in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Add your favorite toppings like cheese, beans, and veggies.

Cook the nachos for about 30-45 minutes, rotating occasionally. The cheese will melt and the chips will get crispy.

For extra flavor, try adding fire-roasted tomatoes or green chiles. You can also use queso fresco or cheddar cheese.

Campfire nachos are easy to customize for different tastes. They’re perfect for sharing with a group while enjoying the great outdoors.

3. Grilled BBQ Chicken

Grilled BBQ chicken is a camping classic. Start by marinating your chicken pieces in your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grates and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side.

Baste the chicken with more sauce as it cooks. This adds flavor and keeps the meat moist.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with grilled veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal.

4. Foil Packet Corn on the Cob

Foil packet corn on the cob is a tasty and easy camping meal. Start by peeling the outer husk and silk from the corn.

Tear off a 12-inch piece of aluminum foil for each ear.

Place the corn in the center of the foil. Add butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

You can also try spicing it up with sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.

Seal the packet by folding the long sides of the foil, creating a 2-inch fold at the top. Place the packets on hot coals or a grill for about 15 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking.

Your corn will be sweet, juicy, and perfectly cooked when done. It’s a great side dish for grilled sausages or other campfire meals.

5. Campfire Apple Crisp

You can make a tasty apple crisp while camping. Slice apples and put them in a cast iron skillet or foil packet. Sprinkle sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg on top.

Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter to make a crumble topping. Spread this over the apples. If using a skillet, cover it with foil.

Cook the apple crisp over your campfire for 10-15 minutes. The apples will soften and the topping will get crispy.

Serve your campfire apple crisp warm. Add a scoop of ice cream if you want an extra treat.

6. Dutch Oven Lasagna

Dutch oven lasagna is a tasty camping meal you can make over a campfire. Layer noodles, meat sauce, and cheese in your Dutch oven. No need to boil the noodles first.

Start by browning sausage in the Dutch oven. Add sauce and set aside. Mix ricotta, eggs, and herbs in a bowl. Layer sauce, noodles, ricotta mix, and mozzarella.

Repeat layers until you reach the top. Cover and place hot coals on the lid. Cook for about an hour. Let it rest before serving.

This hearty dish feeds a hungry group of campers. The Dutch oven creates a crispy top and gooey inside.

7. Chocolate Banana Boat

Chocolate banana boats are a sweet campfire treat. You’ll need bananas, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows.

Cut a slit in each banana peel lengthwise, but don’t slice all the way through. Gently open the peel and stuff chocolate chips and marshmallows inside.

Wrap the stuffed bananas in foil. Place them on hot campfire coals for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through.

The bananas are done when they’re soft and the fillings have melted. Carefully unwrap and enjoy with a spoon. You can customize with peanut butter, coconut, or other toppings.

8. Campfire Pizza Log

You can make a tasty pizza log over your campfire. Start by rolling out pizza dough into a rectangle. Spread sauce, cheese, and toppings over the dough.

Roll the dough into a log shape, sealing the edges. Wrap the log in foil, making sure it’s sealed tightly.

Place the foil-wrapped log on a grill over the campfire. Cook for about 20 minutes, turning every few minutes.

The log is ready when the dough is cooked through and the cheese is melted.

Unwrap carefully and slice your pizza log. You’ll have a fun twist on traditional campfire pizza that’s easy to share.

9. Pineapple Chicken Skewers

Pineapple chicken skewers are a tasty and easy camping meal. You’ll need chicken breast, fresh pineapple, and bell peppers.

Cut the ingredients into 1.5-inch pieces. Thread them onto skewers, alternating chicken, pineapple, and peppers.

Grill the skewers over your campfire for about 12-14 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking.

The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F internally.

For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken beforehand. A mix of honey, ginger, lime, and cilantro works well.

These skewers bring a tropical taste to your outdoor adventures.

10. Cinnamon Roll-Ups

Cinnamon roll-ups are a tasty campfire treat you can make with minimal ingredients. You’ll need crescent roll dough, cinnamon, sugar, and skewers.

Mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Wrap the crescent roll dough around a skewer and roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Cook your roll-ups over the campfire for about 5 minutes. Turn them often to ensure even cooking.

The result is a warm, gooey cinnamon treat.

For extra sweetness, you can make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and water. Drizzle it over your cooked roll-ups for a campfire dessert that’s sure to please.

11. Hobo Packets

Hobo packets are a camping staple. You wrap meat, vegetables, and seasonings in foil and cook them over a fire or grill.

They’re easy to prepare and customize. Popular ingredients include ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions.

To make hobo packets, place your chosen ingredients on a piece of foil. Add butter or oil and seasonings. Fold the foil to seal the packet tightly.

Cook the packets for 30-45 minutes, depending on the heat source. The food inside will steam, creating a delicious meal.

You can also bake hobo packets in an oven at 375°F for about 40 minutes. Let them cool slightly before opening to enjoy your tasty campfire meal.

12. Jalapeño Popper Pockets

You’ll love these tasty jalapeño popper pockets on your next camping trip. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor.

Start by mixing cream cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and chopped jalapeños in a bowl. Spoon this mixture into biscuit dough pockets.

Seal the edges and bake them over the campfire in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Cook until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

These pockets are perfect for a quick snack or side dish. You can make them ahead of time and reheat them at the campsite.

13. Coconut Curry Soup

Coconut curry soup is a tasty and comforting meal for your camping trip. You can prepare most ingredients at home to make cooking easier at the campsite.

Before you leave, mix coconut cream powder, bouillon, curry powder, and cayenne in a small bag. Pack noodles and dehydrated veggies in another bag.

At camp, boil water and add the noodles and veggies. Once they’re soft, stir in the coconut cream mixture.

The result is a warm, flavorful soup perfect for chilly evenings outdoors.

You can customize this recipe by adding chicken or tofu for extra protein. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions are good veggie options to include.

14. Maple Bacon Pancakes

Maple bacon pancakes are a tasty treat for your camping trip. You’ll need flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, maple syrup, milk, and butter.

Cook bacon first and save some of the grease. Mix wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine. Crumble half the bacon into the batter.

Let the batter rest for 15 minutes. Heat a griddle or pan over medium heat. Grease it with bacon grease or oil.

Pour batter to make pancakes your preferred size. Cook until bubbles form, then flip. Serve with extra bacon and maple syrup on top.

15. Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers

Garlic butter shrimp skewers are a tasty camping treat. You can make them easily on a grill or over a campfire.

Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning.

While they soak, mix melted butter with minced garlic in a small bowl.

Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer. Brush them with the garlic butter mixture.

Place the skewers on a hot grill or over the fire.

Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink. Baste with more garlic butter as they cook.

Serve hot off the grill for a delicious campfire meal.

16. Campfire Chili

Campfire chili is a hearty meal perfect for outdoor cooking. You can make it using a Dutch oven over your campfire.

Start by browning ground beef or turkey in the Dutch oven. Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the meat and cook until soft.

Stir in canned tomatoes, beans, and your favorite chili spices.

Let it simmer for at least an hour, stirring often to prevent sticking.

For extra flavor, try adding corn or diced potatoes. Serve your chili hot with toppings like cheese or sour cream.

17. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and filling camping meal. You can prepare them in a Dutch oven over a campfire.

Start by cutting the tops off your peppers and removing the seeds. Brown some sausage in a skillet with onions and garlic.

Mix the cooked sausage with rice, tomato sauce, and cheese. Spoon this mixture into the peppers.

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a greased Dutch oven. Cover and cook over hot coals for 30-45 minutes.

The result is a flavorful dish that combines protein, veggies, and grains in one convenient package. It’s perfect for satisfying hungry campers after a day of outdoor activities.

18. Breakfast Burritos

Breakfast burritos are a tasty and filling way to start your camping day. You can make them ahead of time or cook them on-site.

To prepare, cook bacon or sausage in a skillet. Add diced peppers and onions, then scramble eggs with the mixture.

Sprinkle cheese on warm tortillas and add the egg filling.

Roll the burritos tightly and wrap them in foil. If making ahead, store them in a cooler until ready to heat.

At the campsite, warm the burritos on a grill or over the campfire for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them every 5 minutes to prevent burning.

Serve your hot, cheesy breakfast burritos with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.

19. Grilled Caprese Sandwich

A grilled Caprese sandwich is a tasty camping meal you can make in about 10 minutes. Start by slicing a baguette and brushing the cut sides with oil.

Grill the bread until it’s lightly toasted. Spread pesto on one side of each slice.

Add sliced mozzarella cheese and tomatoes.

Place the sandwich back on the grill. Cook it for a few minutes, flipping once, until the cheese melts. Add fresh basil leaves before serving if you like.

For a campfire version, wrap the sandwich in foil. Cook it 4-6 inches above hot coals for 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally.

The result is a crispy, cheesy sandwich with warm tomatoes.

20. Caramelized Onion Mushrooms

Caramelized onion mushrooms are a tasty camping treat. You can make them easily with just a few ingredients.

Start by slicing onions and mushrooms. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions and mushrooms, stirring to coat.

Cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring every few minutes.

The onions will turn golden brown and sweet. The mushrooms will become tender and flavorful.

This dish goes well with many camping meals. Try it on burgers, steaks, or as a side dish. You can even eat it on its own with some crusty bread.

21. Foil Pack Cajun Shrimp Boil

Foil pack Cajun shrimp boil is a tasty and easy camping meal. You’ll need shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes.

Cut large foil sheets for each serving. Place the ingredients in the center of the foil.

Add Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and a bit of butter. Fold the foil to create sealed packets.

Cook the packets on a grill or in a 425°F oven for about 15 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink when done.

This meal is great for camping because it’s simple to prepare and clean up. You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences.

22. Apple Pie Baked Beans

Apple pie baked beans blend sweet and savory flavors for a unique camping treat. You can make this dish easily at your campsite.

Start by mixing canned baked beans with apple pie filling in a Dutch oven. Add some BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and mustard for extra flavor.

If you want meat, cook bacon or brown sausage with onions and peppers before adding to the mix. Stir everything together gently.

Cook the beans over your campfire or in a 250-275°F smoker for about 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The result is a tasty side dish that combines classic comfort foods in a new way.

23. Honey Mustard Chicken

Honey mustard chicken is a tasty and simple camping meal. You can prepare the marinade at home using honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice, and spices.

Pack the chicken and marinade in a sealed bag. At your campsite, grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat.

For an easy one-pan version, use foil packets. Place chicken and potatoes in foil with the honey mustard sauce. Cook on the grill or over the campfire.

This dish pairs well with grilled veggies or a simple salad. The sweet and tangy flavor will be a hit with your fellow campers.

24. Lemon Herb Salmon

Lemon herb salmon is a tasty and healthy camping meal. You can prepare it easily with minimal ingredients. Start by placing salmon fillets on foil or parchment paper.

Drizzle olive oil over the fish. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like dill or parsley. Add lemon slices on top for extra flavor.

Wrap the salmon in the foil or paper to create a packet. Cook it over the campfire or on a portable grill for about 15-20 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or a simple salad. It’s a light yet satisfying meal perfect for outdoor dining.

25. Peanut Butter Banana Wraps

Peanut butter banana wraps are a tasty and easy camping snack. You’ll need tortillas, peanut butter, and bananas.

Spread peanut butter on a tortilla. Place a whole banana on one end. Roll the tortilla tightly around the banana.

For extra flavor, add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also use other nut butters if you prefer.

These wraps are filling and provide energy for your outdoor activities. They’re quick to make and don’t require cooking, perfect for a no-fuss camping meal.

26. Stuffed French Toast

Stuffed French toast is a tasty camping breakfast upgrade. Start by making sandwiches with bread and your favorite filling like cream cheese and jam.

Beat eggs with milk, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture to coat both sides.

Cook the French toast in a buttered skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Flip carefully to avoid losing the filling.

For easy cleanup, try making foil packet French toast. Assemble the sandwiches and place them in a foil packet with the egg mixture. Cook on a grill grate for 8-10 minutes per side.

Serve your stuffed French toast with extra toppings like syrupy strawberries for a decadent camping breakfast treat.

27. Chili Cheese Fries

Chili cheese fries are a tasty camping treat you can make with minimal effort. You’ll need frozen fries, canned chili, and shredded cheese.

Start by creating a foil packet. Spray the foil with cooking spray and add a layer of fries. Top with chili and cheese.

Seal the packet tightly. Place it on hot coals or a grill grate over the campfire. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the fries are crispy and the cheese melts.

For easier prep, make your foil packets at home before leaving. The fries will thaw naturally, saving you time at the campsite.

28. Trail Mix Cookies

Trail mix cookies are a tasty twist on classic camping snacks. You can make these treats before your trip or bake them at the campsite.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Mix melted butter and sugars in a bowl. Add vanilla and egg, then stir in flour, baking soda, and salt.

Now for the fun part – add your favorite trail mix ingredients. Try peanuts, cashews, raisins, M&M’s, and chocolate chips. Mix everything well.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool before packing for your camping trip.

These cookies are perfect for a quick energy boost during hikes or as a sweet treat around the campfire.

29. Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Gourmet grilled cheese takes a classic comfort food to new heights. You can create a fancy sandwich by using high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

Try using artisanal bread like sourdough or brioche. Experiment with cheeses beyond cheddar, such as brie, gouda, or gruyere.

Add unexpected toppings like caramelized onions, sliced apples, or crispy bacon. Spreads like fig jam or truffle aioli can elevate the flavor profile.

For a camping twist, cook your gourmet grilled cheese in a cast-iron skillet over the campfire. The smoky flavor will add an extra layer of deliciousness to your sandwich.

30. Sweet Potato Hash

Sweet potato hash is a tasty and filling camping meal you can make in one skillet. Start by cooking bacon in a cast iron pan over your campfire.

Next, add diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and scallions. Cook until the potatoes start to brown and soften.

Stir in some spices like salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Pour in a bit of water, cover, and let it cook until the potatoes are tender.

For extra flavor, you can add kielbasa sausage or top with fried eggs. This hearty dish is perfect for breakfast or dinner at your campsite.

Cooking Tips for Campfire Meals

Cooking over a campfire can be fun and rewarding. With the right tools and safety practices, you can make delicious meals in the great outdoors.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Pick durable cookware for campfire cooking. Cast iron pans and Dutch ovens are great choices. They heat evenly and can handle high temperatures.

Bring long-handled utensils to keep your hands away from the fire. A grill grate gives you a stable cooking surface over the flames.

Don’t forget aluminum foil. It’s perfect for making foil packet meals.

Pack a sturdy cooler to keep perishables cold. A portable stove is handy for quick meals or when campfires aren’t allowed.

Consider collapsible items to save space. Folding cutting boards, cups, and bowls are useful. Bring a fire starter, matches, or a lighter to get your campfire going.

Food Safety in the Outdoors

Keep food safety in mind when camping.

Pack perishables in sealed containers inside a cooler with plenty of ice. Use separate coolers for drinks and raw meats to avoid cross-contamination.

Wash your hands often. Bring hand sanitizer or biodegradable soap.

Clean all utensils and surfaces before and after cooking. Use clean water to rinse produce.

Cook foods to safe temperatures. Bring a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Don’t let food sit out for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if it’s over 90°F outside.

Store leftovers promptly in airtight containers. Keep them cold in your cooler. When in doubt, throw it out to avoid foodborne illness.

Nutritional Considerations for Camping Meals

Camping meals need to provide energy and nutrients for outdoor activities. Good planning helps you pack foods that are both nutritious and practical for the outdoors.

Balancing Protein, Carbs, and Fats

Pack a mix of foods with protein, carbs, and fats.

Protein helps repair muscles after hiking or other activities. Good camping protein sources include:

• Nuts and seeds
• Canned tuna or chicken
• Protein bars
• Dehydrated beans

Carbs give you quick energy for adventures. Bring foods like:

• Whole grain bread or wraps
• Oatmeal
• Trail mix
• Fruit

Healthy fats keep you full longer. Pack:

• Avocados
• Nut butters
• Olive oil for cooking

Including Fresh Produce

Fresh fruits and veggies add important vitamins and fiber to camping meals.

Choose produce that travels well and doesn’t need refrigeration:

• Apples
• Oranges
• Carrots
• Bell peppers

Wash and pre-cut veggies at home for easy snacking.

Store produce in breathable bags to prevent spoiling.

Bring a small cooler for more delicate items like leafy greens.

Use these early in your trip.

Canned or dried fruits and veggies are good backups.

They last longer and are lightweight to carry.