Eating in the Woods; Camp Cookware Essentials
Pack your bags, grab your camping gear and create memories that will last a lifetime! Oh, and don't forget the camp cookware!
Make memories that will last a lifetime with camping — but don't forget to bring the right cooking gear!
If you love camping, you know that having the right tools for cooking can make or break your camping experience. With the right camp cookware, you can cook up the best meals under the stars without minimal hassle.
Make sure your camping experience is one to remember and for the right reasons. Camp cookware that are easy to use frees up your time, so you can focus on creating beautiful memories and good food at the same time.
Explore our recommendations for camp cookware essentials now and start planning your next outdoor adventure!
Camp stove
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable camp stove, then propane is the way to go. Propane camp stoves are designed to be portable, lightweight and easy to use. And, they cook well too! So whether you’re camping with your family or just need a quick meal while out on the trail, you can rely on a propane camp stove for all your cooking needs.
These tiny, yet powerful stoves provide the perfect solution for all your outdoor cooking needs. Whether you're in the mood for a delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner - these handy devices can provide you with a quick and tasty meal in no time.
Coffee Maker
Coffee makers are an important part of many people’s morning routine. A proper cup of coffee in the morning is essential to get your day going and what better way to do that than having the right kind of coffee maker.
Whether you prefer the convenience and speed of a propane-powered one or the classic style and taste of a traditional percolator, having a quality coffee maker is key for all those who cannot function without their daily dose of caffeine. It truly is an essential!
Cookware
When considering camp cookware, look for some that is not only durable, packable, and easy to clean but also multifunctional. Doing so will make sure you are ready for whatever food that is required. Many camp cookware sets only focus on packability which is primarily important when you are backpacking.
Search for a set constructed with high-quality materials to be extra sturdy and long-lasting. Being a cinch to keep clean and handle a variety of cooking tasks are equally important.
Dutch Oven
Dutch ovens are a popular and versatile cooking tool that have been used for centuries. They are incredibly durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for camping trips and everyday use. Dutch ovens can be used to cook a variety of dishes, from pizza and lasagna to peach cobbler and many more.
With their versatility, Dutch ovens can be used in any kitchen or outdoor setting. Taking a bag of charcoal along for cooking at the campsite is a must so you can get heat distributed well on top and bottom of the dutch oven.
Utensils
Eating utensils are essential for any meal. Whether you're eating at home or camping, having the right set of utensils is essential. Durable and easy to clean, the right utensils can last through years of use and make your mealtime easier including the clean up.
When shopping for a set of eating utensils, consider what size and material will work best for your family. You'll also want to make sure that there are enough pieces in the set to accommodate everyone's needs. You may want to ensure spatulas and serving spoons are included as well if there is a need.
How we choose
It can be hard to find reliable reviews for camp cookware essentials, and often times it's difficult to decipher hype from actual performance. With all the different products out there, how can you find the best one without wasting money on something that won't live up to its claims?
Not only do you have to worry about finding a good product, but camping can be a hazardous activity if you don’t have the right gear. If you buy something that isn't up to par with the highest standards of durability and portability, it could end up ruining your whole trip.
Being based in southwest Colorado, at Outdoor Verified, we use our own experience with these products along with countless other reviewers to come up with our list of the best camp cookware essentials. We do our best to ensure you next outdoor adventure is memorable for all the right reasons!
What we like
Get ready to cook up a storm with Coleman's Classic Propane Camping Stove! This stove is a staple in the camping world. I have used this model that was well over 20 years old. Now, my family has one that is more than 12 years old with usage and no maintenance I’m afraid.
With 20,000 BTUs of grilling power and adjustable wind-blocking panels, you can whip up delicious meals in windy weather. With the added bonus of a pressure regulator, you can rest assured that your Coleman stove will be able to cook up something delicious even in the most extreme elevations in which you would be camping.. The Coleman Classic Propane Stove may just help make you whiz in the outdoor kitchen.
More details
- Unleash the power of 20,000 BTUs
- Fit two pans at once and get the job done faster.
- Adjustable burners for precise temperature control so you can get that perfect sear or simmer.
- Wind-blocking panels to keep your flame burning strong even in windy conditions.
- Pressure regulator for consistent performance no matter what the weather throws at you.
- Up to 1 hour runtime on high with one 16.4 oz propane cylinder (sold separately).
- Plus, a 3 year limited warranty for peace of mind!
What we like
Wake up and smell the coffee! My wife cannot make it long without coffee. While there are less-expensive options out there that are basic percolators that go on a fire, this one fills the order fast! With the Coleman Propane Coffee Maker, you can enjoy a fresh cup of joe in 18 minutes, no matter where you are. The Instastart ignition and PerfectFlow technology make it easy to brew your favorite coffee, even in extreme conditions. Plus, the Pause 'n' Serve feature lets you pour a cup while brewing (a must for some…). You can still get your caffeine fix on the go with Coleman Propane Coffee Maker!
More details
- Instastart ignition for effortless, matchless lighting.
- PerfectFlow technology ensures consistent performance in any weather condition.
- Enjoy freshly brewed coffee in just 18 minutes.
- 4,500 BTUs of cooking power to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
- Pause 'n' Serve feature lets you pour a fresh cup while brewing.
- 10-cup glass carafe holds enough coffee for the whole family.
- Removable filter basket is easy to fill and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
- Lasts up to 4.5 hours on high on one 16
What we like
Ready to take your camping game to the next level? With Stanley's Camp Cook Set, you'll be cooking like a pro in no time! Now, this set is not the least expensive out there; however, we can say based on our use and frustrations at the fire or camp stove, this set corrects the typical complaints. This 11-piece set has everything you need to whip up a hearty meal, from the 4.75qt stock pot to the 8.5" frying pan.
Plus, its unique multi-layer bottom ensures even heating over campfires, stove tops, and grills. This legendary set of stainless steel pots and pans is perfect for camping, hiking, backpacking, or tailgating. With its 18/8 stainless steel construction, it won't rust or break and is even dishwasher-safe.
More details
A complete kitchen set for all your cooking needs. Includes:
- Pot
- Sauce pan
- Frying pan
- Collapsible cutting board
- Spatula
- Spoon and trivets.
- Crafted from stainless steel for maximum durability and weighing only 8.2 pounds for easy portability.
- Collapsible design allows for compact storage when not in use.
What we like
Get ready to cook like a pro with Lodge's Camp Dutch Oven! And, that is a true statement. This is the tool that we use to make camp food fun. We have made calzone, pizza, lasagna, brownies and peach cobbler in our Lodge Dutch Oven. Make sure you have a bag of charcoal handy with this one. When placing the coals properly on top and bottom, you can get pretty accurate and consistent temps.
This all-in-one works great for high heat cooking, slow cooked meals, and everything in between. With its unparalleled heat retention and even heating, you can sear, sauté, bake, broil, braise, and fry with ease. Plus, the flanged lid holds hot coals and inverts for use as a griddle. This oven really elevates your camp food!
More details
- 5-Quart Deep Camp Dutch Oven for campfire or fireplace cooking.
- Seasoned cast iron ready to use, so you can start cooking right away.
- Cast iron lid inverts for use as griddle, giving you more options to cook your favorite dishes.
- 10-inch diameter by 5-inch deep, perfect size for camping trips and outdoor adventures.
- Made in U.S.A with quality craftsmanship and materials that will last a lifetime.
What we like
Get ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level with PRETTYFINE Camp Utensils! So, we do not really care for the name and we have not personally used these. But, based on the knowledge of what we do have and the needs we have come across since owning, this set would be our choice if we were buying right now. Once the 3’ of snow is off the ground, it just might happen.
This complete set has everything you need for a delicious meal in the great outdoors with service for four people. Whether you're camping, hiking, or just having a picnic, these utensils are lightweight and durable enough to handle food on par with any other camp utensils. It is a huge benefit to be able to pack all these back into its case and stow for the next meal. Either a bear came and stole some of our utensils or they were lost. Plus, they look pretty fine too 😉!
More details
- All. included: such as a storage bag, soup ladle, slotted turner, barbecue fork, fish scale planer, soup spoons, table knives, forks and more.
- With extendable BBQ forks and skewers for grilling and roasting your favorite dishes.
- A brush for cleaning up afterwards.
- Also included are a paring knife, chef's knife, three in one planer, scissors and cutting board for prepping meals with ease.
Buying guide and FAQs for camp cookware essentials
What do people cook with when camping?
Camping stoves are the main equipment you would need while camping. Campers have the option to choose between two different kinds of cooking stoves: propane and canister backpacking variants. Although both has its own pros and cons, people generally prefer the classic two-burner models as they give more space to cook, have a bigger surface area to place pots and is better for larger groups.
How do you best organize camping cookware?
It is important to keep camping storage items neatly organized so you can easily access them. Using ziplock bags, plastic storage organizers, translucent containers or even empty coffee cans are great ways to do this. Additionally, make sure you get straps if you want your boxes securely strapped in your camping vehicle.
How best do you set up a campsite kitchen?
Ideally, for your camp kitchen, it's important to establish three distinct workstations to ensure that all tasks can be completed efficiently. Additionally, you should also have separate storage bins for food and other items such as plates, utensils, napkins etc. Finally, it's great to have a designated eating area so that the stations don't need to be cleared before meals.
Why do campers often use Aluminum cooking pots?
Hard-anodized aluminum cookware is the preferred option for backcountry use due to its unique properties. It is highly efficient in heat distribution, extremely light in weight which makes it easy to transport on long journeys, and requires minimal maintenance due to its nonstick coating.
How do you clean a greasy frying pan when camping?
When you're out in the wilderness, it's important to be mindful of how you clean your dishes. It's best to dig a hole for washing and scrubbing, as well as bringing biodegradable soap and wipes or a scouring pad. You can even use dirt for things like cookware! Remember that "clean" is a relative term when it comes to the backcountry.
How do you store pots and pans safely to avoid damage?
It is essential to be mindful when stacking pots and pans in order to avoid scratches and rust. To make sure this happens, consider placing pieces of paper towel or kitchen tea towel between them. If they come with lids, you can store them on the side of a cabinet door or hang them on your pegboard for easy access.
How do you store leftovers when camping?
Camping trips can be made more enjoyable with the right food storage solutions. Freezing as much food as possible is a great idea, because it helps save space in your cooler and helps keep items cold for longer. Food should be removed from its packaging and packed in layers for easier access, and it's important to separate cold foods from dry goods. Use Appropriately sized containers to store as well as considering a powered thermoelectric cooler.
What are suggested meals when camping?
A delectable range of dinner recipes are available to make while camping some of which use a dutch oven. The choices range from Sausage and Tortellini Soup, Lasagna and Red Beans and Rice to Chipotle Grilled Chicken Tacos and Chicken Pineapple Kabobs. Other options include One Pot Chili Mac, Grilled Chicken Tacos, Tzatziki Chicken Skewers, Shrimp Boil Foil Packets and classic Hamburgers and Hot Dogs.
Our final word on camp cookware essentials
Camping is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of work life, but it can also be quite a bit of work too. With the right tools and equipment, though, you can make camping a much more enjoyable experience.
We have put together some awesome ideas on how to kit out your camp kitchen with everything you need to prep meals, store food and cook up some delicious dishes while in the outdoors. Through our recommendations, we hope that we have provided you with the knowledge necessary to empower yourself when selecting gear for your camping trips!
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Thanks for stopping by!
With dreams of the outdoors,
Ron
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