Camping trips are all about enjoying nature and making memories. Food plays a big part in those outdoor adventures.
Tasty meals can make your time in the woods even better.
You can find many easy and delicious camping recipes to try on your next trip. These dishes are made to be cooked outside with basic tools.
From quick breakfasts to hearty dinners, there are lots of options. You’ll also find ideas for snacks and treats to enjoy around the campfire.

1. Campfire Chili
Campfire chili is a perfect meal for cold camping nights. You can make it easily in a Dutch oven over a fire or camp stove.
Start by heating oil in the Dutch oven. Brown ground beef, then add chopped onions and peppers.
Stir in canned tomatoes, beans, and your favorite chili spices.
Let the chili simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will blend together.
Serve your campfire chili hot, topped with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with cornbread for a filling and comforting camp dinner.

2. S’mores Nachos
S’mores nachos are a fun twist on the classic campfire treat. They’re easy to make and perfect for group camping trips.
Start by layering graham cracker pieces, marshmallows, and chocolate chips in a foil pan. Make about two layers for the best results.
You can cook these nachos over a campfire, on a grill, or in an oven.
If using a grill or campfire, place the pan on the heat for a few minutes until the marshmallows melt and turn golden.
For extra flavor, try adding different toppings like peanut butter chips or sliced fruit. Set up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own s’mores nachos.

3. Dutch Oven Pizza
You can make delicious pizza while camping using a Dutch oven. This versatile pot creates an oven-like environment, perfect for baking pizza over a campfire.
To make Dutch oven pizza, start with store-bought or homemade dough. Spread it in the bottom of your preheated pot. Add sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Place hot coals under the Dutch oven and on its lid. This creates heat from all directions, similar to a regular oven.
Cook for about 20-30 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese melts.
Dutch oven pizza is flexible. You can use different sauces, cheeses, and toppings to suit your taste. It’s a fun and tasty meal to enjoy outdoors with friends and family.

4. Grilled Salmon Foil Packets
Grilled salmon foil packets are a tasty and easy camping meal. You’ll need aluminum foil, salmon fillets, and your favorite seasonings.
Start by placing each salmon fillet on a piece of foil. Season with salt and pepper. Add lemon slices, herbs, or garlic for extra flavor.
Fold the foil around the salmon to create a sealed packet. This keeps the fish moist and flavorful while cooking.
Place the packets on the grill or over the campfire. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Your salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork. Serve right from the foil for easy cleanup.

5. Campsite Quesadillas
Quesadillas make a tasty and easy camping meal. You can prep ingredients at home to save time at the campsite.
Bring tortillas, shredded cheese, and your choice of fillings.
Chicken, beans, and bell peppers work well. Pack these in separate containers or bags.
At the campsite, assemble your quesadillas. Place cheese and fillings on half of each tortilla. Fold the other half over to close.
Cook quesadillas on a grill grate over the campfire. You can also wrap them in foil before grilling. They’ll be ready in 5-7 minutes.
Quesadillas are versatile. Try different cheese and veggie combos for variety on your camping trip.

6. Fire-Roasted Potato Skins
Fire-roasted potato skins are a tasty camping treat.
Start by cleaning and piercing whole potatoes with a fork. Wrap them in foil and place them in the campfire’s hot embers.
Cook for about 45 minutes, turning occasionally. Once tender, remove and let cool slightly.
Cut potatoes in half and scoop out most of the inside, leaving a thin layer.
Brush the skins with oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them back near the fire, skin-side down, for 5-10 minutes until crispy.
Top with cheese, bacon bits, or your favorite toppings before serving.

7. Foil Wrapped Veggie Medley
Foil wrapped veggie medleys are a tasty and simple camping meal. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables.
Popular choices include bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and onions.
Cut your veggies into bite-sized pieces. Place them on a sheet of foil and add some oil, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, try adding herbs or garlic.
Seal the foil tightly to create a packet. Cook it over the campfire or on a grill for about 20 minutes.
The veggies will steam inside, becoming tender and flavorful.
This dish is great on its own or as a side. You can even add some cheese on top for the last few minutes of cooking.

8. Cinnamon Roll Foil Packets
Cinnamon roll foil packets are a tasty camping breakfast treat. You’ll need refrigerated cinnamon rolls and aluminum foil to make them.
Wrap each cinnamon roll in foil. Place the packets on a grill over the campfire. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
For a fun twist, try cooking them inside oranges. Cut oranges in half and scoop out the fruit. Put a cinnamon roll in each orange half. Wrap in foil and cook as above.
The result is warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with a hint of citrus flavor. It’s an easy way to enjoy fresh-baked treats while camping.

9. Dutch Oven Lasagna
Dutch oven lasagna is a tasty camping meal you can make over a campfire. You’ll need a 12-inch camp Dutch oven for this recipe.
Brown sausage or ground beef in the Dutch oven first. Add onions and garlic for extra flavor. Mix in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
Layer the meat sauce with lasagna noodles and cheese. No need to pre-boil the noodles. The moisture from the sauce will cook them.
Bake the lasagna for about 40 minutes. Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set up nicely.
Your campsite lasagna will be hot, cheesy, and delicious. It’s a comforting meal after a day of outdoor activities.

10. Banana Boats
Banana boats are a fun and tasty campfire treat. You start with a whole banana, still in its peel. Cut a slit down the middle, but don’t go all the way through.
Stuff the banana with your favorite toppings. Popular choices include chocolate chips, marshmallows, and caramel bits.
You can also try peanut butter, nuts, or fruit.
Wrap the stuffed banana in foil. Place it on hot coals or a grill grate over the fire. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
When done, the banana will be soft and the fillings melted. Let it cool a bit before eating. You can add graham cracker crumbs on top for extra crunch.

11. Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast burritos are a tasty and filling camping meal. You can make them ahead of time for easy mornings outdoors.
To prepare, cook sausage or bacon in a skillet. Add scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies like peppers and onions. Wrap the mixture in tortillas.
For make-ahead burritos, let the filling cool before assembling. Wrap each burrito in foil and freeze.
At camp, reheat them over the fire or on a portable stove.
You can customize burritos with your favorite ingredients. Try adding hash browns or crispy tater tots for extra texture. Salsa and hot sauce make great toppings.

12. Campfire Burgers
Campfire burgers are a tasty treat for your outdoor adventures. You can cook them directly on a grill grate over the fire or use a cast-iron skillet.
Start by mixing ground beef with your favorite seasonings. Form the meat into patties and cook them over medium-high heat.
For extra flavor, try adding caramelized onions. Cook sliced onions in a skillet with olive oil until they’re brown and sweet.
Top your burgers with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and condiments. Serve on toasted buns for a delicious camping meal.
For a fun twist, make foil packet burgers. Wrap seasoned patties with veggies in aluminum foil and cook over the campfire for about 45 minutes.

13. Herb Grilled Corn
Herb grilled corn adds zesty flavor to your camping meals. To make it, husk ears of corn and wrap them in foil with butter and herbs.
You can use fresh herbs from your garden like rosemary, thyme, parsley, or basil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Place the foil-wrapped corn on the grill for about 15-20 minutes. Turn it a few times for even cooking.
The result is juicy, smoky corn infused with herb flavors. It’s an easy side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or fish.
For extra flair, sprinkle some grated cheese on top after grilling. Goat cheese or Parmesan work nicely with the herbs.

14. Camp One-Pot Pasta
One-pot pasta is a great camping meal. It’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup. You can cook everything in a single pot over a campfire or camp stove.
To make camp one-pot pasta, start with your favorite pasta shape.
Add water, vegetables, and seasonings to the pot. Bring it to a boil and cook until the pasta is tender.
Popular ingredients include canned tomatoes, dried herbs, and pre-cooked meats. You can also add cheese at the end for extra flavor.
Some tasty combinations are pesto with salmon or Cajun-spiced chicken.
This meal is perfect after a long day of hiking. It’s filling, quick to prepare, and uses few utensils.
One-pot pasta lets you enjoy a hot, tasty meal without much fuss at your campsite.

15. Sausage and Veggie Skewers
Sausage and veggie skewers are a tasty and simple camping meal. You can make them with precooked sausage cut into chunks and your favorite veggies.
Try bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a colorful mix. Thread the sausage and veggies onto skewers, alternating as you go.
Brush with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before grilling. Cook over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning often.
These skewers are easy to customize. You can use chicken sausage for a lighter option or add mushrooms and cherry tomatoes for more variety.

16. French Toast Sticks
French toast sticks are a fun and easy camping breakfast. You can make them quickly with just a few ingredients.
Start by cutting bread into stick shapes. Dip the sticks in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon.
Cook them in a pan over your campfire or camping stove until golden brown.
These portable treats are perfect for eating without utensils. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this handheld version of classic French toast.
Serve your French toast sticks with maple syrup for dipping. They make a tasty and filling start to your day of outdoor adventures.

17. Campfire Apple Pie
Campfire apple pie is a tasty dessert you can make while camping. It’s easy and fun to prepare over the fire.
You’ll need bread, butter, apple pie filling, and a pie iron.
Butter one side of each bread slice. Put a slice in the pie iron, butter side down.
Add a spoonful of apple filling on the bread. Top with another buttered slice, butter side up. Close the pie iron and cook over hot coals.
Turn the pie iron every few minutes. Cook until the bread is golden and crispy. The apple filling will be hot and bubbly.
Let it cool before eating. This warm, gooey treat is perfect for chilly nights around the campfire.

18. Spicy Grilled Shrimp
Spicy grilled shrimp is a perfect camping dish. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
To make it, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Add peeled and deveined shrimp, coating them well.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp before serving. This adds a bright, zesty flavor that balances the heat.
You can adjust the spice level to your liking. Add more cayenne for extra kick or reduce it for a milder taste.
Serve your spicy grilled shrimp as a main dish or appetizer. They pair well with grilled vegetables or a crisp salad.

19. Dutch Oven Mac & Cheese
Dutch oven mac and cheese is a camping favorite. You can make this comforting dish right at your campsite with just a few ingredients.
To start, cook macaroni in your Dutch oven over the campfire. Once tender, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Add butter, milk, and shredded cheese to the macaroni. Stir until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce.
For extra flavor, mix in some spices like garlic powder or paprika. Top with crushed crackers for a crunchy finish.
Cover the Dutch oven and let it cook for about 30 minutes until bubbly. Rotate the pot occasionally for even heating.
This one-pot meal is perfect for feeding a group after a long day outdoors. It’s easy to make and sure to satisfy hungry campers.

20. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and filling camping meal. You can make them at home or over a campfire using a Dutch oven.
To prepare, cut the tops off bell peppers and remove the seeds. Fill them with a mix of ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onions, and minced garlic.
Place the stuffed peppers in a Dutch oven over campfire coals. Add some coals on top of the lid too. Cook for about 20-30 minutes until the peppers soften and the filling is hot.
For a twist, try using ground pork or sausage instead of beef. You can also add canned tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor.

21. Cheesy Potato Boats
Cheesy potato boats are a tasty camping treat. To make them, you’ll need baked potatoes, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Start by wrapping potatoes in foil and cooking them in the campfire coals. Once tender, cut them in half and scoop out some of the inside.
Fill the potato skins with shredded cheese and add-ins like bacon or chives. Place them back in the foil and heat until the cheese melts.
These gooey, cheesy potatoes are perfect for a filling campfire meal. You can customize them with different cheeses and toppings to suit your taste.

22. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a camping classic. They’re easy to make and always hit the spot.
To make them, butter the outside of two bread slices. Place cheese between the slices, butter-side out.
Cook the sandwich on a griddle or in a pie iron over the campfire. Flip it to brown both sides evenly.
Try adding sliced apples for extra crunch and flavor. You can also use different cheeses or add bacon for variety.
For a Greek twist, stuff pita bread with grilled chicken and feta cheese. This makes a hearty meal after a day of outdoor activities.

23. Campfire Kabobs
Kabobs are perfect for camping. You can prep them at home and cook them easily over the fire.
Thread chunks of meat, veggies, and even fruit onto skewers.
Popular options include steak, chicken, shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Marinate your kabobs before cooking for extra flavor.
Grill the skewers over the campfire for about 10 minutes. Turn them often so they cook evenly on all sides. The meat should be cooked through and the veggies lightly charred.
Baste with sauce or marinade while cooking if desired. Serve your kabobs hot off the grill for a tasty camping meal everyone will enjoy.

24. Foil Packet Tacos
Foil packet tacos are a tasty and simple camping meal. You can make them with shrimp, chicken, or sweet potatoes.
To prepare, wrap your chosen ingredients in foil. Add spices and veggies for extra flavor. Cook the packets over a campfire or grill for about 15-20 minutes.
Once done, open the packets and serve the contents in taco shells. Top with cheese, salsa, or other taco fixings you like.
This meal is great for camping because it’s easy to make and clean up. You can prep the packets at home to save time at the campsite.

25. Dutch Oven Pot Roast
Dutch oven pot roast is a camping classic. You can make this hearty meal with just a few ingredients. Start by browning a beef roast in your Dutch oven over the campfire.
Add beef broth, onions, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and herbs for extra flavor. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid.
Let it cook for 2-3 hours over medium heat. If using a campfire, place hot coals on top of the lid for even cooking. Check the meat and vegetables after 2 hours to see if they’re tender.
This one-pot meal is perfect for feeding a hungry group of campers. The long, slow cooking process makes the beef fall-apart tender.

26. Skillet Jambalaya
Skillet jambalaya is a tasty one-pan meal perfect for camping. You can make it easily over a campfire or portable stove.
Start by heating oil in a large skillet. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until soft.
Next, add rice and cook for a few minutes. Toss in chopped sausage, chicken, and shrimp if desired.
Pour in broth and canned tomatoes. Stir in Cajun seasoning for flavor. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer.
Cook until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Your hearty jambalaya is ready to enjoy at your campsite.

27. Cowboy Caviar
Cowboy Caviar is a tasty and easy camping dish. You can make it ahead of time or at your campsite.
Mix black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, and chopped veggies in a bowl. Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions for color and crunch.
For the dressing, combine olive oil, vinegar, and a bit of sugar. Pour it over the veggie mix and stir well.
Toss in some cilantro and jalapeño for extra flavor. Serve with tortilla chips for a fresh and filling snack or side dish on your camping trip.

28. Campfire Zucchini
Campfire zucchini is a tasty and easy side dish for your outdoor meals. You can cook it in foil packets for simple prep and cleanup.
Cut zucchini into slices or chunks. Place the pieces on a sheet of foil. Add a drizzle of olive oil and your favorite seasonings.
Good options include garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Cajun spice. You can also add sliced onions for extra flavor.
Wrap up the foil to create a sealed packet. Cook it on hot campfire coals or a grill for about 15-20 minutes. Flip the packet halfway through cooking.
The zucchini will come out tender and full of smoky flavor. It’s a great way to add veggies to your camping menu.

29. Foil Pack Fajitas
Foil pack fajitas are a tasty and easy camping meal. You can make them with chicken, beef, or veggies. Cut your ingredients into strips and add fajita seasoning.
Wrap everything in foil packets. Cook them on a grill or over campfire coals for about 15-20 minutes. The foil keeps the food moist and flavorful.
When done, open the packets carefully. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings. Sour cream, cheese, and salsa are great choices.
Foil pack fajitas are perfect for camping. They’re simple to prep ahead and clean-up is a breeze.

30. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a tasty camping treat that’s easy to make. You’ll need a fresh pineapple, butter, and cinnamon.
Cut the pineapple into wedges, removing the outer part. Mix melted butter with cinnamon. Brush this mix onto the pineapple slices.
Place the pineapple on a hot grill or over a campfire. Cook for a few minutes on each side until you see grill marks.
The heat caramelizes the fruit’s natural sugars, making it extra sweet. Serve your grilled pineapple warm as a side dish or dessert.
For added flavor, try a honey glaze. Mix honey with lime juice and cinnamon. Let the pineapple soak in this mix before grilling.

31. Sweet Potato Skewers
Sweet potato skewers are a tasty and easy camping treat. To make them, cut sweet potatoes into cubes and thread onto skewers.
Grill the skewers over medium heat for about 20 minutes. Flip them every 5-6 minutes to cook evenly. They’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
For extra flavor, brush the hot skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. You can also add a sweet touch by mixing brown sugar and cinnamon to coat the potatoes before grilling.
Sweet potato skewers pair well with grilled chicken or can be enjoyed on their own as a side dish. They’re a nutritious and delicious addition to your camping menu.
Tips for Campfire Cooking
Cooking over a campfire can be fun and rewarding. With the right techniques and gear, you can make tasty meals in the great outdoors.
Managing Fire Temperature
Build your fire in a clear area away from low-hanging branches. Start with small twigs and gradually add larger pieces of wood.
Let the flames die down before cooking. Coals give more even heat than flames.
For high heat, place your pot or pan directly over the coals. For medium heat, raise it a few inches above. For low heat, move it to the edge of the fire pit.
Use a long-handled spoon or tongs to adjust food. This keeps your hands safe from the heat. Rotate pans often for even cooking.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Pack cast iron skillets and Dutch ovens. They distribute heat well and are durable.
Bring aluminum foil for easy packet meals. Use a grill grate over the fire for grilling meats and veggies.
Get long-handled utensils to keep your hands away from the flames. Bring oven mitts or thick gloves for handling hot pots.
Pack a meat thermometer to check food temps. Consider a portable camp stove as backup. It’s useful on rainy days or when fire bans are in effect.
Don’t forget matches or a lighter in a waterproof container.
Food Safety in the Outdoors
Camping trips require extra care when handling food. Proper storage and hygiene are key to avoiding foodborne illness.
Follow these tips to keep your meals safe and tasty.
Storing Ingredients Properly
Pack perishables in a cooler with ice packs. Keep raw meats separate from other foods.
Use airtight containers for dry goods to keep out moisture and critters.
Check cooler temperatures often. Replace ice as needed to keep foods cold. Discard any perishables left above 40°F for over 2 hours.
Bring a food thermometer to check meat temperatures. Cook ground beef to 160°F and chicken to 165°F.
Let cooked foods cool before packing them away. Store leftovers promptly in sealed containers and eat within 1-2 days. When in doubt, throw it out!
Avoiding Cross-Contamination
Wash hands often with soap and water.
Bring hand sanitizer as a backup.
Clean all utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces before and after use.
Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and produce.
Never put cooked food on plates that held raw meat.
Pack color-coded cutting boards to keep raw and ready-to-eat foods separate.
Bring plenty of clean cloths or paper towels for wiping surfaces.
Store raw meats on the bottom of the cooler to prevent drips.
Double-bag to contain any leaks.
Keep drinks in a separate cooler from food.