17 Best Camping Meals: Breakfast, Dinner & Snack Ideas

If you are planning a camping trip and wondering what to eat? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with our selection of the best camping meals!

In this post, I’ve rounded up some of the best camping meals that are both delicious and easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, these meals will satisfy your hunger and keep you energized for your outdoor activities.

Camping is a great way to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, when it comes to meal planning, it can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re not accustomed to cooking in the great outdoors.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you plan and prepare tasty and satisfying meals for your camping trip. From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your taste buds and dietary needs. So, let’s get started and explore the best camping meals that will make your next camping trip a delicious success!

What Are The Best Camping Meals For Breakfast?

When it comes to camping, there’s nothing quite like starting your day with a hearty breakfast. Whether you prefer something sweet or savoury, there are plenty of delicious breakfast options that can be prepared over a campfire or camping stove. Here are some of the best camping breakfast meals:

1. Breakfast Burritos

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast burrito. Cook scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, and diced potatoes in a pan, then add them to a tortilla with cheese and salsa. Wrap it up and enjoy a delicious and filling breakfast that will keep you fueled for your outdoor adventures.

2. Campfire Omelettes

Whisk together eggs, cheese, and your choice of veggies in a Ziploc bag and cook over the campfire for a tasty and mess-free omelette.

3. Pancakes

Pancakes are a classic camping breakfast that is easy to make with a camping stove or griddle. Pack some pancake mix and syrup for a delicious and filling breakfast.

4. Breakfast Hash

Cook up diced potatoes, onions, and your choice of meat (bacon, sausage, or ham) in a skillet over the campfire for a hearty and flavorful breakfast.

5. Yogurt Parfaits

Layer yoghurt, granola, and your favourite fruit in a mason jar for a healthy and delicious breakfast that requires no cooking.

6. Breakfast Sandwiches

Layer eggs, cheese, and your choice of breakfast meat between English muffins or bagels for a quick and tasty breakfast that can be prepared on a camping stove.

With these delicious and easy camping breakfast meal ideas, you’ll be able to fuel up for a day of adventure in the great outdoors!

The Best Camping Meals For Dinner?

After a long day of outdoor activities, there’s nothing like enjoying a warm and filling dinner around the campfire. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal under the stars. Here are some of the best camping dinner meals:

1. Campfire Chili

Nothing beats a warm bowl of chilli on a chilly night. This hearty and flavorful meal is easy to make over a campfire or camping stove. Start by browning ground beef in a large pot, then add chopped onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chilli powder. Let it simmer for a few hours, and you’ll have a delicious and filling meal.

2. Foil Packet Meals

Foil packet meals are a great option for camping because they’re easy to prepare and clean up. Simply wrap your favourite ingredients in foil and cook them over a campfire or camping stove. Some great options include chicken and vegetables, steak and potatoes, or even a vegetarian option with mushrooms and onions.

3. Campfire Pizza

Yes, you read that right – you can make pizza over a campfire! All you need is a pre-made pizza crust, tomato sauce, cheese, and your favourite toppings. Place the crust on a piece of foil, add your toppings, and wrap it up. Then, cook it over the fire until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.

5. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

This classic comfort food is perfect for a chilly evening around the campfire. Simply grill bread and cheese over the fire, and serve it with a warm bowl of tomato soup. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

6. One-Pot Pasta

One-pot pasta is a great option for camping because it’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup. Simply cook pasta, vegetables, and protein in one pot, and season it with your favourite spices and sauces. It’s a quick and easy meal that will satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling satisfied.

7. Campfire Tacos

Who says you can’t have tacos while camping? Cook ground beef or chicken in a pan, then add taco seasoning and your favourite toppings, like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Serve them in tortillas for a delicious and easy meal that everyone will love.

8. Grilled Fish Tacos

For a healthier option, grilled fish tacos are a great meal for camping. Simply grill your favourite fish, like tilapia or salmon, and add some spices and lime juice. Serve it in a tortilla with coleslaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious and fresh meal.

9. Campfire Quesadillas

Quesadillas are an easy and customizable meal for camping. Simply fill a tortilla with cheese, beans, chicken, or your favourite toppings, and cook it over the campfire or camping stove. Serve it with salsa and guacamole for a delicious and satisfying meal.

10. Beef and Vegetable Skewers

For a protein-packed meal that’s easy to make, try beef and vegetable skewers. Simply alternate pieces of beef, bell pepper, onion, and zucchini on skewers and grill them over the fire. Serve them with a side of rice or quinoa for a filling and nutritious meal.

11. Campfire Nachos

Nachos are a fun and easy meal to make while camping. Simply layer tortilla chips, cheese, beans, and your favourite toppings in a cast-iron skillet and cook it over the fire until the cheese is melted. Serve it with salsa and guacamole for a delicious and satisfying meal.

These are just a few of the best camping meals you can enjoy on your next outdoor adventure.

Make sure to also pack some basic cooking utensils, like a spatula, tongs, and a pot or pan, as well as some storage containers for leftovers or snacks to make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.

With these delicious and easy recipes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal no matter where your camping trip takes you.

In addition to these meal ideas, there are also plenty of other camping foods that are easy to prepare and pack, such as trail mix, granola bars, fruit, and jerky.

And if you’re looking for some extra cooking inspiration, there are plenty of camping cookbooks and websites that offer delicious and creative camping meal ideas.

Some popular options include “The Campout Cookbook” by Marnie Hanel and Jen Stevenson, and the website Fresh Off the Grid, which features a variety of camping recipes and cooking tips.

Fuel Your Adventure: Best Snacks for Hiking and Camping

When you’re out in the wilderness, you need to keep your energy levels up, and snacking is a great way to do that. But not all snacks are created equal – you want ones that are portable, easy to store, and packed with nutrients. Here are some of the best snacks for hiking and camping:

• Trail Mix: A classic snack for outdoor activities, trail mix is a great source of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. You can make your own mix with nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips or buy pre-made packs.
• Energy Bars: Perfect for a quick boost of energy, energy bars are compact and easy to carry. Look for ones with a balance of protein and carbs, and avoid ones with excessive sugar.
• Beef Jerky: High in protein and low in fat, beef jerky is a great snack for those who want to stay satiated for longer periods of time. It’s also easy to store and carry in your backpack.
• Fruit: Fresh fruit like apples, bananas, and oranges are a great source of carbs, fibre, and vitamins. They’re also easy to pack and won’t take up much space in your backpack.
• Roasted Chickpeas: A crunchy and flavorful snack, roasted chickpeas are high in protein, fibre, and carbs. You can make them yourself by roasting chickpeas with some olive oil and spices or buy pre-made packs.
• Cheese: Cheese is a great source of protein and fat and can be enjoyed on its own or with crackers. Look for individually wrapped cheese sticks or small packets of cheese to make it easy to pack and carry.

These snacks will keep you fueled and energized during your hiking or camping trip, so you can fully enjoy the great outdoors.

Essential Equipment for Cooking Delicious Meals While Camping

When it comes to camping meals, having the right equipment can make all the difference.

Whether you’re car camping or backpacking, having a well-stocked camp kitchen can help you prepare delicious and satisfying meals in the great outdoors.

In this section, we’ll explore the essential equipment you’ll need for cooking meals while camping, from portable stoves to cast-iron skillets to water filtration systems. By investing in the right gear, you’ll be able to cook up gourmet meals, even in the middle of the wilderness.

Here are some essential items to bring along for your camping cooking adventure:

• Portable stove or grill: A portable stove or grill is a must-have for cooking meals while camping. Look for one that is lightweight, easy to use, and can accommodate the size of your group.
• Cooking utensils: Bring along a set of cooking utensils, such as a spatula, tongs, and a large spoon or ladle. Look for utensils with long handles to keep your hands away from the heat.
• Plates, bowls, and eating utensils: Pack a set of plates, bowls, and utensils for each person in your group. Look for lightweight and durable options that are easy to clean. I love a titanium spork myself.
• Cookware: Choose lightweight and durable cookware that can withstand the rigours of camping. A cast-iron skillet or a set of pots and pans, along with a Dutch oven, is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used for cooking a variety of meals over a campfire. Look for a pre-seasoned option that is easy to clean.
• Cutting board and knife: Don’t forget a cutting board and a sharp knife for preparing ingredients.
• Cooler: A cooler is essential for keeping perishable food items cold while camping. A good quality cooler will help keep your food fresh and drinks cold. Look for one with a good seal and sturdy construction.
• Cooking fuel: Make sure to bring along the appropriate fuel for your stove or grill. This can be propane, butane, or other types of fuel depending on the model of your camping cooker.
• Seasonings: Bring along your favourite seasonings to add flavour to your meals. Salt, pepper, and other spices can make a big difference in the taste of your food.
• Cleaning supplies: Don’t forget to pack cleaning supplies such as dish soap, sponges, and towels to keep your cookware and utensils clean.
• Water filtration system: A water filtration system is essential for ensuring access to clean drinking water while camping. Look for a lightweight and portable option that can filter out bacteria and other contaminants.
• Food storage container: Pack a few food storage containers for leftovers or snacks. Look for containers that are lightweight, durable, and easy to pack.

By bringing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for cooking delicious meals while enjoying the great outdoors.

If you are unsure of what else you should pack for your hiking trip. Don’t worry… you can read my full guide here.

Meal Planning Tips for Camping

When it comes to cooking meals while camping, a little bit of planning can go a long way. Here are some meal-planning tips to help you prepare delicious and satisfying meals on your next camping trip:

1. Plan your meals ahead of time

Before you head out on your camping trip, take some time to plan out your meals. Consider how many people will be joining you and how many meals you’ll need to prepare. Make a list of ingredients for each meal and pack accordingly.

2. Keep it simple

While it’s tempting to plan elaborate meals for your camping trip, it’s often best to keep things simple. Stick to meals that are easy to prepare and don’t require too many ingredients or cooking utensils. One-pot meals, like stews or chilli, are a great option.

3. Prep ingredients ahead of time

Prepping ingredients ahead of time can save you time and hassle while camping. Chop vegetables, cook rice, and marinate meat at home and store them in resealable bags or containers. This will make meal prep a breeze and allow you to spend more time enjoying the great outdoors.

4. Bring versatile ingredients

When planning meals for your camping trip, consider bringing versatile ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. For example, you could bring a can of black beans that can be used in a breakfast scramble, a lunchtime salad, or a dinner stew.

5. Pack snacks and easy-to-prepare meals

While you’ll likely want to prepare some meals from scratch while camping, it’s also important to have snacks and easy-to-prepare meals on hand. Bring things like trail mix, granola bars, and pre-made sandwiches for easy snacking. And don’t forget about instant oatmeal or dehydrated meals for quick and easy breakfasts and dinners.

By following these meal-planning tips, you’ll be well on your way to preparing delicious and satisfying meals while camping.

Food Safety Tips for Camping

When you’re camping, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure that the food you’re eating is safe and free from harmful bacteria. Follow these food safety tips to prevent foodborne illness while camping:

1. Keep food at the right temperature

Perishable foods, such as meat, dairy, and eggs, should be kept cold to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Use a cooler with ice or freezer packs to keep food at or below 40°F (4°C). Keep the cooler in a shady spot and avoid opening it too frequently.

2. Cook food to the right temperature

Cooking food to the right temperature can kill harmful bacteria and prevent foodborne illness. Use a food thermometer to ensure that meat, poultry, and fish are cooked to the right temperature. Ground beef should be cooked to 160°F (71°C), chicken to 165°F (74°C), and fish to 145°F (63°C).

3. Wash your hands and cooking utensils

Washing your hands and cooking utensils can prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. Use soap and warm water to wash your hands before and after handling food. Wash cooking utensils, cutting boards, and dishes with hot, soapy water.

4. Don’t cross-contaminate

Cross-contamination can occur when bacteria from raw meat, poultry, or eggs come into contact with other foods. Use separate cutting boards, utensils, and dishes for raw and cooked foods. Don’t reuse marinades or sauces that have come into contact with raw meat.

5. Store food properly

Store food properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Keep raw meat, poultry, and eggs separate from other foods in the cooler. Use resealable bags or containers to prevent spills and leaks. Don’t leave food out in the sun for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C).

By following these food safety tips, you can enjoy delicious and safe meals while camping.

Tips for Cooking Over a Campfire

Cooking over a campfire can be a fun and exciting way to prepare meals while camping. However, it can also be challenging if you’re not prepared. Here are some tips for cooking over a campfire:

1. Build the right fire

To cook over a campfire, you need to build the right type of fire. Use dry, seasoned firewood that’s no thicker than your wrist. Build a fire ring with rocks or use an established fire pit. Start with small sticks and kindling, then gradually add larger logs.

2. Use the right cookware

Cooking over a campfire requires sturdy cookware that can withstand high heat. Cast iron is a popular choice for campfire cooking because it can handle high temperatures and distribute heat evenly. Bring a cast iron skillet, Dutch oven, or griddle for cooking over the fire.

3. Plan ahead

Before you start cooking over the fire, plan out your meals and prepare your ingredients. Chop vegetables, marinate meat, and measure out spices ahead of time. This will make cooking over the fire easier and more efficient.

4. Use foil packets

Foil packets are a great way to cook food over the campfire. Wrap ingredients in foil and place them directly on the coals or a grate over the fire. Foil packets can be used to cook vegetables, fish, chicken, and more.

5. Monitor the temperature

When cooking over a campfire, it’s important to monitor the temperature of your food to prevent undercooking or burning. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of meat and poultry. Rotate your cookware frequently to ensure even cooking.

6. Practice fire safety

Cooking over a campfire requires careful attention to fire safety. Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of emergencies. Don’t leave the fire unattended and always extinguish the fire completely before leaving.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious meals cooked over the campfire while staying safe and prepared.

Final Thoughts…

In conclusion, with the right equipment, planning, and knowledge, preparing delicious meals while camping can be a lot of fun and create many memorable moments to take away from your time in the great outdoors. Whether you’re cooking over a campfire or using a camping stove, these meal ideas will help you enjoy a satisfying and memorable outdoor dining experience. So pack your camping kitchen essentials, hit the trails, and enjoy some delicious food in the great outdoors!

Camping Meals FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

Q: What are some easy meals to make while camping?

A: Some easy camping meals include hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and pasta dishes like spaghetti or macaroni and cheese.

Q: What should I pack for my camping kitchen?

A: Some essentials to pack for your camping kitchen include a camping stove, fuel, pots and pans, utensils, plates and bowls, cups and mugs, a cooler, and food storage containers.

Q: Can I make healthy meals while camping?

A: Yes, there are plenty of healthy meal options for camping, including grilled fish, vegetable skewers, salads, and quinoa or rice dishes.

Q: How do I keep food cold while camping?

A: You can keep food cold while camping by using a cooler filled with ice or frozen gel packs. Make sure to keep the cooler in a shaded area and avoid opening it too frequently.

Q: What are some good snacks to pack for camping?

A: Some good snacks to pack for camping include trail mix, granola bars, fresh fruit, jerky, and roasted nuts.

Q: Can I make desserts while camping?

A: Yes, there are plenty of delicious dessert options for camping, including s’mores, campfire apple crisp, and grilled fruit with honey and cinnamon.

Q: How do I cook meals over a campfire?

A: You can cook meals over a campfire by using a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, or by wrapping food in foil and placing it on the coals. Make sure to keep a close eye on the food and rotate it frequently for even cooking.