Must-Try Camping Recipes for the Outdoors

Q: How do I keep perishable items fresh without a refrigerator?

To keep perishable items like meats and dairy fresh, use a quality cooler with plenty of ice or ice packs. Store these items in the cooler in a way that minimizes exposure to air each time it’s opened. Frozen meats can act as additional ice packs and will thaw in time for use. For longer trips, consider pre-cooking and freezing meals that can be reheated over a campfire.

Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

Also Read: Dollar Store Wreaths That Scream Summer

When you’re out in the wilderness, simplicity is key, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor. The best camping recipes are those that combine ease of preparation with delicious results. From breakfasts that fuel your adventures to dinners that wrap up your day in the most satisfying way, these recipes will ensure you eat well, no matter where you pitch your tent.

Cooking in the great outdoors comes with its own set of challenges, but with a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can prepare meals that are just as tasty as anything you’d make at home. Whether you’re cooking over a campfire, using a portable stove, or even trying out a Dutch oven, these recipes are designed to be flexible and foolproof.

Best Camping Recipes

31. Breakfast Scrambler from My Organized Chaos

image 24 20 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

30. Egg Bake Breakfast Foil Packet from Julie’s Eats & Treats

image 24 21 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

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29. Breakfast Burritos – Campfire Style from Taste and Tell

image 24 22 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

28. Donuts from Must Have Mom

image 24 23 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

27. Cheesy Western Skillet with Hash Browns and Ham Breakfast Casserole from Kid Friendly Things To Do

image 24 24 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

26. Camper’s Outdoor Apple Cobbler from Instructables.com

image 24 25 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

25. Cinnamon Roll-ups from Almost Supermom

image 24 26 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

24. Eclairs from The Many Little Joys

image 24 27 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

23. Sausage and Hashbrown Breakfast Pizza from Taste of Home

image 24 28 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

22. Fried Eggs With Potato-and-Bacon Hash from Martha Stewart

image 26 3 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

21. S’mores Granola from The Big Man’s World

image 24 29 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

20. Bacon from Zestuous

image 24 30 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

19. Camping French Toast from Fresh Off the Grid

image 24 31 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

18. Cake & Berry Campfire Cobbler from Taste of Home

image 24 32 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

17. Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie from Homemade Heather

image 24 33 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

16. Pizza Nachos from Cooking With Janica

image 24 34 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

15. Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich from Twin Dragonfly Designs

image 24 35 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

14. Camping Hotdog Recipe for the Campfire from Frugal Coupon Living

image 24 36 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

13. Cheesy Potato & Sausage Foil Packet from Who Needs A Cape?

image 24 37 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

12. Sausage Pierogie Campfire Foil Packets from Just 2 Sisters

image 24 38 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

11. Ground Beef Hobo Dinners from Britney’s Pantry

image 24 39 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

10. Garlic Butter Steak and Potato Foil Packets from Savory Nothings

image 24 40 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

9. Campfire Monkey Bread from Sweet Anne Designs

image 24 41 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

8. Cajun-Style Grill Foil Packets from Favorite Family Recipes

image 24 42 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

7. 3 Cheese Bacon Campfire Potatoes from Just 2 Sisters

image 24 45 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

6. Campfire Cones from Hip2Save

image 24 46 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

5. S’more Nachos from Let’s Camp S’more

image 24 47 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

4. Bacon Wrapped BBQ Meatball Onion Bombs from SHTF

image 24 48 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

3. Samoa S’mores from Creme De La Crumb

image 24 49 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

2. Banana S’more Boats from Suburble

image 24 50 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

1. Apple Crisp Foil Packets from Gimme Some Grilling

image 24 51 - Camping is one of those experiences that brings people closer to nature, and nothing complements a day outdoors like a good meal cooked over an open fire. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the great outdoors, having the right recipes can elevate your camping trip from good to unforgettable.

What are some easy-to-pack ingredients for camping meals?

When planning your camping menu, opt for ingredients that are lightweight, non-perishable, and versatile. Canned goods, dry pasta, rice, and dehydrated foods are excellent choices. Fresh produce like potatoes, carrots, and onions can withstand the elements better than others. Don’t forget to bring spices in small containers to add flavor without bulk.

Also Read: DIY Summer Wreaths You’ll Want to Make

How do I keep perishable items fresh without a refrigerator?

To keep perishable items like meats and dairy fresh, use a quality cooler with plenty of ice or ice packs. Store these items in the cooler in a way that minimizes exposure to air each time it’s opened. Frozen meats can act as additional ice packs and will thaw in time for use. For longer trips, consider pre-cooking and freezing meals that can be reheated over a campfire.

What are some effective ways to cook over a campfire?

Cooking over a campfire requires a bit of preparation. Invest in heavy-duty aluminum foil, a good cast-iron skillet, and a grill grate that can be placed over the fire. Foil packets are an easy method, allowing you to cook meals with minimal cleanup. Skewers or a roasting stick are also great for direct cooking. Always ensure the fire has burned down to hot coals for even cooking.

How can I make cleanup easier when cooking outdoors?

To simplify cleanup, prepare as much as possible at home. Pre-chop vegetables, marinate meats, and pack them in resealable bags. When cooking, use non-stick spray on your pans and grills to prevent sticking. Bring biodegradable soap and a small basin for washing dishes, and always follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste.