Welcome to Camp Gourmet! Camp Stove Options For Summer 2023

Are you looking to elevate your camping culinary experience? If so, then now is the time to do it with Outdoor Verified!

Welcome to Camp Gourmet! Camp Stove Options For Summer 2023
Photo by Sage Friedman / Unsplash

Are you ready to take your camp cooking experience to the next level?

Camping is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy nature, but when it comes time to eat, you need the right equipment to fuel those adventures with family and friends. But, with so many different types of camp stoves available, it can be hard to decide which one is really going to bring out your inner Gourmet chef. We are here to help!

Doing this research ahead of a camping trip helps to avoid the adverse effects of trial and error. And there may not be a fast food joint available for miles to bail you out. With our expert advice and guidance, you can find the perfect camp stove that meets all of your needs and fits within your budget.

Take the guesswork out of which camp stove is right for your situation and check out our recommendations today!

Camp stoves

Camp stoves are an essential part of any outdoor adventure. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just enjoying a day in the great outdoors, having a reliable camp stove can make all the difference; and we understand that all too well.

From propane to liquid fuel to charcoal and solar-powered stoves or just the camp fire, there are plenty of options available for campers looking to cook up some yummy meals while out in nature.

With the right camp stove and a campfire grate, you can easily enjoy your favorite foods while out in the wild. So don’t forget to pack your camp stove on your next outdoor adventure – it will make all the difference when it comes time to cook and enjoy some unique and delicious food.

Propane

Propane stoves are a great way to enjoy outdoor cooking for many reasons. They are convenient, consistent and easy to use. Propane stoves make it easy to cook delicious food with operation that is simple enough for the whole family to use.

With a propane stove, you can be sure that your food will be cooked evenly and consistently every time. Plus, they are lightweight and portable so you can set them up and break them down easily. A propane stove is the most common choice for these reasons.

Liquid Fuel

Liquid fuel (butane) provides cooking options outdoors in a more compact manner. It is convenient, consistent, and compact, making it perfect for backpacking trips. These stoves are not what you will want to cook for the whole family on, but we thought it was a good idea to mention them.

Even while camping we have taken overnight hikes from our base camp. These stoves fit that bill. With these stoves, campers can enjoy delicious meals while out in the wilderness on the side of a mountain without having to carry bulky equipment.

Charcoal

Charcoal is truly the undisputed king of outdoor cooking. It is an incredibly reliable and convenient fuel source that requires nothing more than a dry environment to perform at its best.

Whether you are cooking hot dogs, hamburgers, or fajitas, charcoal is the perfect way to make sure your food tastes amazing and cooks very consistently every single time. A charcoal grill may be a bit bulkier than some other options, but if space is not the priority, it sure will make for great meals.

Solar

Solar stoves are not only a surprising way to cook, but also a great way to enjoy outdoor cooking while being eco-friendly and safe. Solar stoves use the sun's energy to cook food, making them an ideal choice for campers who need a reliable source of heat for their meals. Reliability is 100% dependent on the sun, however.

With solar stoves, you don't need to worry about running out of fuel as long as the sun is shining. In fact, sun that produces a distinct shadow is enough to use this option. They are easy to set up and use; however, the space options for how the food packed and cooked may be a challenge.

Camp Fire

Campfire grates utilize your existing campfire as a stove since the campfire is a staple in most campsites. Campfire grates make it easy to cook delicious food over an open fire. With a campfire grate, the challenge may be the burn restrictions in a given camping area. Often, fires are limited to fire pits that are often included with campsites.

Keep in mind, you will still need wood to burn. Since you are in a campsite where there are likely many other campers doing the same thing, you cannot rely on the amount of wood you will need to maintain a fire simply by gathering wood around the site. Consider bringing your own wood with you.

Best Propane Stove

Coleman Classic Propane Stove

Check it out on Amazon

What we like

Get ready to cook up a storm with Coleman Classic Propane Gas Camping Stove. This dependable stove packs up easily and is perfect for camping trips, picnics, and more. It is by far the most common stove found in campsites which is why it makes the list.

With 20,000 total BTUs of grilling power and adjustable wind-blocking panels, you can be sure your meals will be cooked to perfection in any weather condition. The operation is simple and straightforward requiring no special skills or talent (to use the stove, no comments on the cooking…).

More Details

  • 20,000 BTUs
  • Fit two pans at once and get the job done in no time.
  • Adjustable burners for precise temperature control
  • Wind-blocking panels to shield your cooking from gusts of wind.
  • Pressure regulator technology ensures consistent performance even in extreme conditions.
  • Enjoy up to 1 hour of runtime on high with one 16.4 oz propane cylinder (sold separately).
  • Get peace of mind with a 3-year limited warranty.

Best Liquid Fuel

Soto WindMaster Stove

Check it out on Amazon

What we like

Get ready for the trails with the Soto WindMaster Stove. This revolutionary stove is designed to be more efficient in windy weather, so you can boil water faster and longer.

With its concave design and 4Flex pot support, you can use it with any size pot for your outdoor adventures. Not the right choice for the campsite with multiple people you are cooking for, but getting some elevation on a mountain trail is its ideal setting.

More details

  • Value System Micro Regulator for precise flame control and fuel efficiency.
  • Soto WindMaster Stove for maximum wind resistance and stability.
  • Igniter Stealth Igniter for easy ignition in any weather condition.
  • Compact dimensions and lightweight design make it easy to carry around.
  • High output of 2,800 kcal/h or 3,260 W or 11,000 BTU ensures fast cooking time.
  • Burn time of approximately 1.5 hours with 250 g (8 oz)

Best Charcoal Grill

Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill

Check it out on Amazon

What we like

Get ready to take your grilling game on your next camping trip with the Weber Jumbo Joe Grill. With its larger grilling area, you can cook up to eight burgers to feed a herd of friends and family. Plus, its porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat and won’t rust or peel. Our example is currently on the back porch where is gets snow on it annually and there is no rust.

The Tuck-N-Carry lid lock that doubles as a lid holder ensures you don’t have to worry about placing the lid on the ground again. Plus, its dampers allow you to easily control the temperature inside your grill for perfect results every time. And with 3D interactive assembly instructions available through the free BILT app, you'll be grilling like a pro if you already are not.

More details

  • Heavy-gauge steel charcoal grate for superior heat retention and durability.
  • Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid for a glossy finish that is easy to clean.
  • Lid handle with heat shield to protect your hands from the heat.
  • Plated steel cooking grate for even heating and easy cleaning.
  • Tuck-N-Carry lid lock for secure transport of the grill.
  • Aluminum Ash Catcher to keep your grill clean and tidy.

Best Solar Stove

GoSun Sport Solar Portable Stove

Check it out on Amazon

What we like

Ok, what? This is the newest phenomena in camp cooking without a doubt. This GoSun Sport Solar Stove is the most interesting way to cook outdoors without the hassle of a fire.

It's fast (relatively), easy, and safe - deploys in seconds and collapses into a durable package. Plus, its folding parabolic reflectors protect the cooking tube like a clamshell and its solar vacuum tube cooking chamber provides a near perfect layer of insulation.

The benefit beyond not relying on a fire is that food retains its full flavor and nutrition. With its ability to reach temperatures up to 550°F (290°C) in full sunlight, this is a super intriguing way to cook. Keep in mind your fuel is the sun. As long as there is a distinct, shadow this stove will cook.

More details

  • Tube cooking chamber for efficient and even heat distribution.
  • 2 foldable parabolic reflectors to capture and concentrate the sun's rays for maximum cooking power.
  • Durable stainless steel cooking tray to hold your food securely while it cooks.
  • Rugged scrubby cleaning tool for easy maintenance and cleaning of the device.
  • Instruction manual included for easy setup and use.
  • Low maintenance, fuel free design that does not require frequent adjustment.
  • Compact size of 24 x 5 x 8 inches makes it perfect for camping, tailgating, or any outdoor activity.

Best Campfire Grate

Check it out on Amazon

24in Fire Grate Log Grate

What we like

Since many campers keep a fire going 24 hours a day, why not use the campfire to cook your food? Well, you need a grate to cover it first. This heavy-duty Iron structure is coated with high-temperature paint, making it strong and resistant to heat. With its 7-inch height and 24-inch diameter, it's a great size for most built in or stand-alone fire pits. Plus, its 6 legs make it very stable so you can put more wood to burn at one time.

With its curved edges, you can be sure that logs won't roll out of the fire pit rack for a hotter, better and safer fire. Perfect for all kinds of campfires, whether at your campsite or in your own backyard.

More details

  • Constructed with tough iron for superior durability and strength.
  • Finished with a high temperature paint for a durable, utilitarian look.
  • Compact size of 24 x 24 x 7 inches
  • Weight of 8.8 lbs/4 kg makes it easy to move around

Buyer's Guide and FAQs for Camp Stoves

Is there a difference between a camp stove and a backpacking stove?

For a more efficient outdoor cooking experience, backpacking stoves are a great option as they weigh less, feature one burner and can boil water in comparatively lesser time. However, they do not provide the same level of stability nor do they cook foods as well with the variety as those made for the campsite

Is it OK to use a camp stove indoors?

Yes, it is safe to use a propane stove indoors. However, there are a few safety precautions to take if you have an indoor propane stove. Like any cooking appliance, the key element in successfully using a propane stove is ventilation. Any stove that relies on an open flame releases exhaust into the indoor air

Butane camping stoves vs propane?

the verdict - If you're going backpacking and looking to keep things ultralight, butane is the clear winner, but if you're expecting extremely cold temperatures or high altitude, propane is obviously the way to go.


What's the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from a camp stove?

Camping stoves and heaters should never be used indoors because they can produce dangerous amounts of Carbon Monoxide (CO) gas. In addition, the smoldering charcoal that is often found in these products also releases an extremely high level of CO, making them even more hazardous to use indoors.

How hot does the bottom of a camping stove get?

Although it isn't necessary, you may decide to bring cooked food for your car camping or backpacking trip. It's always helpful to have a backup option in case a campfire isn't possible due to weather, fire restrictions, limited resources or any other reason. You don't have to worry about the lower part of your camping stove getting hot enough to melt plastic. But it is still a good idea to look for a material that offers convenience and safety together when you're choosing the equipment for your camping trip.

Is a camp stove better than a wood fire?

Camping stoves, including wood-burning ones, are much safer to use than campfires. The stove keeps the fire contained and prevents sparks from spreading out of control, so long as it is not knocked over. This means that you don't have to worry about unpredictable consequences with a camping stove.

Is 8000 BTU hot enough for cooking a meal?

An 8,000 BTU stovetop burner may be the perfect size for many of your cooking needs. This amount of power is more than enough to fry eggs or make a hearty grilled cheese sandwich with no fuss. Don't plan on many complicated dishes.

Are camp stoves worth purchasing?

Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, and you can have just as much fun whether you choose to cook your own food or bring pre-prepared meals. However, it is always wise to have a back-up plan in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as a burn ban or inclement weather preventing you from having access to firewood. In these situations, bringing non-cook foods like sandwiches and salads is recommended for continued enjoyment without the need for cooking.

Our Final Word on Camp Stoves

So there you have it! Our thoughts about camp stoves along with some suggestions to get you going the right direction. The most important part of any camping trip is not the gear, it really is the people with whom you spend time. Whether it is family or friends, our goal is to minimize the distractions of either not having the right gear, or the gear malfunctioning so you can focus on what's most important. Check them out and come to your own conclusion!

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Thanks for stopping by!

With dreams of the outdoors,

Ron

If this article was helpful, consider becoming Outdoor Verified by subscribing so you won't miss any updates on camping and outdoor gear recommendations. We even send out sale items when we find them to subscribers!