[2023] Camping Food Ideas: 27 Easy and Delicious Meals for Your Camping Adventures

I have a collection of food props and noticed that I have a disproportionate number of bowls compared to plates. Bowls make me happy.
This was shot on a white tablecloth in my studio with natural light from a south facing window and some additional light from my Westcott 2 x 2 flex mat LED light at 30% brightness. I used a c-stand positioned above the table.

Are you tired of eating bland and boring food on your camping trips? Look no further! Our team at Camping Checklist™ has compiled a list of 27 easy and delicious camping food ideas that will make your camp cooking a breeze. From hearty main courses to scrumptious desserts, we've got you covered. So grab your camping gear and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering meals under the stars.

Quick Answer
Quick Tips and Facts
Our Best Easy Camping Meals to Make Camp Cooking a Breeze
1. Campfire Nachos
2. Chicken Tzatziki Skewers
3. Shrimp Boil Foil Packets
4. Easy Chickpea Curry
5. Sausage Breakfast Sandwiches
6. Chicken Pad Thai
7. Dutch Oven Mac & Cheese
8. One Pot Pasta Primavera
9. Easy Trail Mix Recipes
10. Foil Wrapped Sweet Potatoes & Chili
11. Campfire Apple Crisp
12. Campfire Grilled Fish Tacos
13. Grilled Mexican Style Street Corn
14. Campfire Banana Boats
15. Avocado Toast Breakfast Sandwich
16. Chickpea Breakfast Hash
17. Sweet Potato Peanut Stew
18. Cheesy Asparagus One Pot Orzo
19. Camp Stove Chilaquiles
20. Lime & Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos
21. Pineapple Chicken Skewers
22. French Toast Sticks
23. Cast Iron Brats with Onions and Peppers
24. Banana Bread Pancakes
25. Pie Iron Pizzas
26. One Pot Pesto Pasta
27. Red Lentil Sloppy Joes
FAQ
Conclusion
Useful Links
Reference Links

Quick Answer

Looking for camping food ideas? We've got you covered! Check out our list of 27 easy and delicious camping meals to make your camp cooking a breeze. From campfire nachos to red lentil sloppy joes, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the mouthwatering recipes, here are some quick tips and facts to enhance your camping food experience:

Preparation is key: Plan your meals in advance and pre-cut ingredients at home to save time at the campsite.
Pack proper storage containers: Use sturdy, airtight containers to store your food and prevent any spillage or contamination.
Opt for one-pot meals: Simplify your camping cooking by preparing meals that require minimal cookware and clean-up.
Consider dietary restrictions: If you or your fellow campers have dietary restrictions, make sure to choose recipes that cater to those needs.
Don't forget the seasoning: Bring along a variety of spices and seasonings to add flavor to your meals. Compact spice containers are perfect for camping trips.
Practice Leave No Trace: Dispose of food scraps responsibly to minimize environmental impact. Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to leave the campsite as you found it.

Now that you're armed with these tips, let's jump into the delicious camping food ideas!

Our Best Easy Camping Meals to Make Camp Cooking a Breeze

We've gathered a collection of our favorite camping meals that are not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. From breakfast to dinner, and even some delightful desserts, we've got you covered. Let's get cooking!

1. Campfire Nachos

✅ Shop tortilla chips on Amazon

Starting off with a crowd-pleaser, campfire nachos are the perfect snack or light meal for your camping adventure. Layer tortilla chips, cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings in a cast-iron skillet or aluminum foil packet. Place it over the campfire or grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a fiesta in your mouth.

2. Chicken Tzatziki Skewers

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These flavorful chicken tzatziki skewers are a hit among campers. Marinate chicken breast chunks in a mixture of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill them over the campfire or a portable grill until cooked through. Serve with a side of pita bread and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean delight.

3. Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

✅ Shop shrimp on Amazon

Nothing beats a seafood feast while camping. Create flavorful shrimp boil foil packets by combining shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes in a foil pouch. Season with Old Bay seasoning or your favorite blend of spices. Place the packets on the campfire grill or directly on hot coals and let them cook until the shrimp turns pink and the vegetables are tender. It's a complete meal in one packet!

4. Easy Chickpea Curry

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For the vegetarians or those looking for a meat-free option, this easy chickpea curry is a perfect choice. Sauté onions, garlic, and spices in a pot, then add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Let it simmer until the flavors meld together. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a comforting and filling meal.

5. Sausage Breakfast Sandwiches

✅ Shop sausage on Amazon

Kickstart your camping mornings with delicious sausage breakfast sandwiches. Cook pre-cooked sausages on a camp stove or grill and toast English muffins over the fire. Assemble the sandwiches with sausage, a fried egg, and a slice of cheese. Wrap them in foil and warm them over the fire until everything is melted. A hearty and satisfying breakfast to fuel your outdoor adventures.

6. Chicken Pad Thai

✅ Shop Pad Thai noodles on Amazon

Bring the flavors of Thailand to your campsite with an easy chicken pad Thai recipe. Cook rice noodles in a pot, then stir-fry chicken, eggs, vegetables, and a tangy pad Thai sauce. Toss the noodles in the pan with the cooked ingredients and garnish with lime and crushed peanuts. Enjoy this classic Thai dish right in the great outdoors.

7. Dutch Oven Mac & Cheese

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A camping trip isn't complete without indulging in some gooey and cheesy mac & cheese. Cook the pasta in a Dutch oven, then stir in a creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Place the Dutch oven over hot coals, cover, and let the cheese melt to perfection. This comfort food will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

8. One Pot Pasta Primavera

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Simplify your camping cooking with a one-pot pasta primavera. In a large pot, combine pasta, vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, along with broth, garlic, and herbs. Bring it all to a boil and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente. This quick and flavorful dish is a crowd-pleaser.

9. Easy Trail Mix Recipes

✅ Shop nuts and dried fruits on Amazon

Trail mix is a camping essential for quick snacks on the go. You can create your own trail mix by combining a variety of nuts, dried fruits, and even some chocolate or yogurt-covered treats. Mix them together and pack them in resealable bags for a convenient and energy-packed snack during your outdoor adventures. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite mix.

10. Foil Wrapped Sweet Potatoes & Chili

✅ Shop sweet potatoes on Amazon

On a chilly evening, warm up with foil-wrapped sweet potatoes filled with chili. Wrap sweet potatoes individually in foil and place them in the hot coals or on the campfire grill. While they cook, prepare your favorite chili recipe on the camp stove or grill. Once the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili is ready, split the potatoes open and spoon the chili on top. It's a hearty and comforting meal that's perfect for cool nights.

11. Campfire Apple Crisp

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End your camping day on a sweet note with a campfire apple crisp. Core and slice apples, then toss them with cinnamon, sugar, and lemon juice. Top the apples with a mixture of oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter. Wrap the apple crisp in foil and place it over the campfire or grill until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crispy. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert.

12. Campfire Grilled Fish Tacos

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Enjoy fresh and flavorful fish tacos right at your campsite. Season your favorite fish fillets with spices or a marinade of your choice, then grill them over the campfire or portable grill until cooked through. Assemble the fish in warm tortillas and top with shredded cabbage, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. These tacos will transport you to a beachfront paradise.

13. Grilled Mexican Style Street Corn

✅ Shop corn on Amazon

Add a touch of Mexican street food to your camping menu with grilled corn on the cob. Soak the corn in water, then place it on the campfire grill or directly on hot coals. Rotate the corn occasionally until the kernels are charred. Brush the corn with mayonnaise, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice. It's a delightful and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course.

14. Campfire Banana Boats

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For a fun and easy dessert, make campfire banana boats. Slit a banana lengthwise, keeping the peel intact. Stuff the banana with your choice of fillings such as chocolate chips, marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers. Wrap the banana in foil and place it on the campfire or grill until the chocolate and marshmallows are melted. It's a gooey and delicious treat that both kids and adults will love.

15. Avocado Toast Breakfast Sandwich

✅ Shop bread on Amazon

Elevate your camping breakfast with an avocado toast breakfast sandwich. Toast slices of bread over the campfire or camp stove, then spread mashed avocado on each slice. Top with a fried or scrambled egg and garnish with your choice of toppings such as sliced tomatoes or crumbled feta cheese. It's a simple yet flavorful way to start your day in the great outdoors.

16. Chickpea Breakfast Hash

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Fuel up for your outdoor adventures with a hearty chickpea breakfast hash. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and diced potatoes in a skillet until golden and crispy. Add cooked chickpeas, spices, and herbs, and let it cook until flavors are well combined. Serve with a side of fried eggs for a protein-packed breakfast that will keep you energized throughout the day.

17. Sweet Potato Peanut Stew

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Warm up on cool evenings with a comforting sweet potato peanut stew. Sauté onions, garlic, and spices in a pot, then add diced sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, peanut butter, and a touch of coconut milk. Let it simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. This hearty stew is packed with nutrients and will satisfy your taste buds.

18. Cheesy Asparagus One Pot Orzo

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Indulge in a creamy and cheese-filled one-pot orzo with asparagus. Sauté onions and garlic in a pot, then add orzo pasta, diced asparagus, chicken or vegetable broth, and a splash of heavy cream. Let it cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce is creamy. Stir in shredded cheese for a gooey and delicious dish that the whole family will enjoy.

19. Camp Stove Chilaquiles

✅ Shop tortilla chips on Amazon

Spice up your camping mornings with camp stove chilaquiles. Sauté onions, garlic, and spices in a skillet, then add crushed tortilla chips and salsa. Let it cook until the chips are slightly softened. Create wells in the mixture and crack eggs into each well. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set. Top with cheese, avocado, and cilantro for a flavor-packed breakfast.

20. Lime & Cilantro Grilled Chicken Tacos

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Marinated in a zesty lime and cilantro mixture, these grilled chicken tacos are a refreshing and flavorful option for your camping trip. Grill the chicken over the campfire or portable grill until cooked through, then slice it into strips. Assemble the tacos with the grilled chicken, diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add your favorite toppings like salsa or guacamole for additional flavor.

21. Pineapple Chicken Skewers

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Bring a taste of the tropics to your campsite with pineapple chicken skewers. Marinade chicken breast chunks in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger. Thread the chicken onto skewers, alternating with pineapple chunks, and grill them over the campfire or portable grill until cooked through. Serve with a side of rice or as a filling for tacos.

22. French Toast Sticks

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Make breakfast a breeze with delicious and portable French toast sticks. Cut slices of bread into sticks, dip them into a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, then cook them on a greased griddle or skillet until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup or sprinkle some powdered sugar for a sweet start to your day.

23. Cast Iron Brats with Onions and Peppers

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Fire up the grill and cook some juicy cast iron brats with onions and peppers. Sear the bratwurst in a cast-iron skillet, then add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook until the brats are browned and the vegetables are tender. Serve them in buns with your favorite condiments and enjoy this classic camping meal.

24. Banana Bread Pancakes

✅ Shop pancake mix on Amazon

Combine two breakfast favorites with fluffy and flavorful banana bread pancakes. Prepare pancake mix as directed and stir in mashed bananas, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Cook the pancakes on a griddle or skillet and serve with maple syrup or honey. These pancakes are sure to be a hit with everyone around the campfire.

25. Pie Iron Pizzas

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Forget delivery and make your own delicious pie iron pizzas at the campsite. Butter two slices of bread, place one slice buttered side down in a pie iron, add pizza sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up. Close the pie iron and cook it over the campfire or grill until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. Enjoy a personal-sized pizza in minutes!

26. One Pot Pesto Pasta

✅ Shop pesto sauce on Amazon

Simplify your camping dinner with a one-pot pesto pasta. Cook pasta in a pot, then stir in prepared pesto sauce, cooked chicken or vegetables, and a splash of cream or broth. Let it heat through, season with salt and pepper, and top with grated parmesan cheese. This flavorful and creamy pasta dish will become a favorite at your campsite.

27. Red Lentil Sloppy Joes

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Give a vegetarian twist to the classic sloppy joes with red lentils. Cook lentils in a pot with vegetable broth, onions, garlic, and your favorite blend of spices. Once the lentils are tender, stir in tomato paste, vinegar, and a touch of sweetener. Let it simmer until thickened and serve on hamburger buns. These sloppy joes are packed with protein and bursting with flavor.

FAQ

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What is the best food to bring for camping?

When it comes to camping food, it's important to choose items that are easy to prepare, pack well, and provide the necessary energy for outdoor activities. Here are some camping food essentials:

Protein-rich foods: Pack items like canned tuna, chicken, or salmon, as well as jerky, nuts, and nut butter.
Durable fruits and vegetables: Opt for fruits like apples, oranges, and bananas that can withstand outdoor conditions. For vegetables, choose options like carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes that can be eaten raw or cooked.
Sturdy carbohydrates: Pack items like tortillas, bread, crackers, and granola bars for quick and easy meals and snacks.
Canned and dried goods: These include items like beans, soups, instant noodles, oatmeal, and dehydrated meals that require minimal cooking and can be easily transported.
Condiments and seasonings: Bring along your favorite spices, seasonings, and condiments to add flavor to your meals.
Drinks: Don't forget to pack plenty of water, as well as beverages like instant coffee, tea bags, and powdered drink mixes.

What food to bring camping for 3 days?

For a 3-day camping trip, you'll want to pack food that will stay fresh and provide enough sustenance for each day. Here's a sample food list:

Protein: Canned tuna, chicken, or salmon, jerky, nuts, nut butter.
Fruits and vegetables: Apples, oranges, bananas, carrots, bell peppers.
Carbohydrates: Tortillas, bread, crackers, granola bars.
Canned and dried goods: Canned beans, soups, instant noodles, oatmeal, dehydrated meals.
Condiments and seasonings: Spices, seasonings, condiments.
Drinks: Water, instant coffee, tea bags, powdered drink mixes.

Pro Tip: Opt for individually packaged items whenever possible, to minimize waste and make meal preparation easier.

What are classic camping meals?

Classic camping meals are usually easy to prepare, require minimal cookware, and are satisfying enough to fuel your outdoor adventures. Some classic camping meals include:

Hamburgers and hot dogs
Foil-wrapped grilled vegetables
Foil-wrapped potatoes
Chili
S'mores
Pancakes
Campfire bacon and eggs
Grilled cheese sandwiches

These meals are simple yet delicious and can be customized to suit your preferences. Don't forget to pack the essentials like condiments, seasoning, and cooking oil for the perfect camping meal.

Can you cook healthy food while camping?

Absolutely! Camping doesn't mean you have to sacrifice healthy eating. With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy nutritious and delicious meals at the campsite. Here are a few tips for cooking healthy food while camping:

Pack fresh produce: Choose fruits and vegetables that are durable and don't require refrigeration, such as apples, oranges, carrots, and bell peppers.
Opt for whole grains: Pack items like whole grain bread, tortillas, or quinoa for a healthy source of carbohydrates.
Choose lean proteins: Include items like chicken breast, fish, tofu, or canned beans for a good source of protein.
Pre-cut ingredients: Pre-cut vegetables and marinated meats at home to save time and hassle at the campsite.
Use healthy cooking methods: Grill or roast your food instead of frying to reduce the amount of added fats.
Stay hydrated: Don't forget to drink plenty of water throughout your camping trip to stay hydrated.

With these tips in mind, you can enjoy nutritious and wholesome meals that will keep you energized during your outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

With these 27 easy and delicious camping food ideas, you'll never have to settle for boring meals on your camping adventures again. From campfire nachos to red lentil sloppy joes, these recipes are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. So pack your camping gear, gather around the campfire, and indulge in some mouthwatering dishes under the stars. Happy camping and happy cooking!