There’s something magical about cooking in the great outdoors—whether it’s the smell of wood smoke, the sizzle of food over an open flame, or the joy of sharing a meal under the stars. Camping recipes don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. In fact, some of the best campfire meals are simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family adventure, or a full-on wilderness retreat, this collection of camping recipes will help you eat well and make the most of your time outside. From breakfast to dessert, we’ve rounded up easy, satisfying dishes that are perfect for cooking over a fire, on a camp stove, or even ahead of time.
Kielbasa and Potatoes
Foil packet recipes might just be the best camping food there is! They’re fun to make and use zero dishes, plus, they’re always so good. This recipe combine potatoes and Kielbasa sausage with spicy mustard, butter, and seasonings for a rib-sticking, super easy camping meal. Recipe: Kielbasa and Potatoes
Tex Mex White Bean Chicken
Here’s another great foil packet recipe. With lean chicken and navy beans, these foil packets are perfect for a healthier meal. Customize the spice level however you like–less for the kids and/or more sensitive palates, and more for everyone else. We love the shredded Mexican cheese for a melty topper. Recipe: Tex Mex White Bean Chicken
Camping Chilaquiles
This camping breakfast or dinner chilaquiles recipe is so simple and comes together in a snap. Everyone we know who has tried this recipe is hooked for life. Recipe: Camping Chilaquiles
Pickle Cheeseburger Bites
Forget squished burger buns. Stack your favorite cheeseburger ingredients on skewers instead, and you’ve got the perfect campsite bite. Recipe: Pickle Cheeseburger Bites
Jambalaya
Why not have some Cajun influence on your summer camp menu? Include this jambalaya foil packet campfire meal to give the kids some spicy deliciousness this summer. Prepare these foil packs ahead of time, complete with sausage, instant rice, veggies, and some chicken broth to steam it all up. Set the packs in the hot coals and check one or two for doneness after 15-20 minutes. If you’ve got picky eaters, consider making a few packs without veggies or with sausage to make sure all the kids get full. Recipe: Jambalaya
Grilled Flank Steak
When you’re camping, quick recipes are key. Flank steak cooks fast and tastes great with minimal huffing and fussing in the summer heat. Grill each side for a few minutes and pair it with beans for an easy camp dinner. Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak
Campfire Lasagna
Cheesy, bubbly lasagna is a universal crowd-pleaser and sure to hit the spot after a long day. This recipe does require some layering, but with the help of pre-made sauce and no-boil lasagna noodles, it comes together in no time and bakes right in the coals of a roaring fire. Recipe: Campfire Lasagna
Campfire Taco in a Bag
Tacos are not only the perfect way to keep kids involved, but they’re also a great way to sneak in some veggies under the guise of creativity. First, get some individual chip corn chip bags–one for each camper. Then grab an aluminum foil pan and use it to brown the ground beef. You might have to drain some of the oil out once it’s cooked, then sprinkle on some taco seasoning. Meanwhile, crush the chips and cut off the top of each chip bag. Scoop some of your grown taco meat into each bag and top with any fixings you want. Every kid gets his or her own taco bag, and good times are had by all. Recipe: Campfire Taco in a Bag
Breakfast Burritos
Camping Breakfast burritos are easy to put together and full of delicious sausage, eggs, crispy fried potatoes, and melted shredded cheese. It’s the ultimate lazy camping breakfast if you put them together at home and toss them on the fire in foil. They are also perfect for dinner. Recipe: Breakfast Burritos
Skillet Mocha Brownie
And of course, no camping meal is finished without dessert. Most desserts you can make in a cast-iron skillet you can throw on a grill or cook over a campfire, like this ooey gooey giant brownie. Just make sure to watch carefully as they bake, since the temperatures might vary. Eat with or without ice cream. Recipe: Skillet Mocha Brownie
Final Thoughts
Camping is all about keeping things simple, savoring the moment, and making memories around the fire—and that includes the food you share. Whether you’re flipping foil packets, toasting marshmallows, or trying your hand at Dutch oven cooking, these camping recipes are sure to bring warmth and flavor to your next outdoor adventure. We’d love to hear what you’re cooking up in the wild! If you have a favorite camping recipe, tip, or twist on a classic, drop it in the comments below. Let’s keep the campfire cooking inspiration going.