Camping is all about adventure, fresh air, and, of course, delicious food! Forget boring hot dogs and beans.
These 21 dinner ideas will elevate your campsite cooking game, and they’re simple enough for even novice chefs to tackle.
1. Foil Packet Fiesta
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? Toss chopped veggies, protein (chicken, sausage, or tofu work great), and your favorite seasonings into foil packets.
Let them sizzle over the campfire until everything is tender and flavorful.
2. Campfire Pizza Party
Pizza in the wilderness? You bet! Grab pre-made pizza dough, sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Grill the dough directly over the flames for a crispy crust, add your toppings, and melt that cheese to gooey perfection.
3. One-Pot Wonder: Campfire Chili
A hearty chili is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly night. Brown your ground beef (or veggie crumbles) in a pot over the fire, then add beans, tomatoes, spices, and a bit of campfire magic.
Let it simmer until it’s thick and bubbly, then serve with crusty bread or cornbread.
4. Skewer Spectacular: Campfire Kabobs
Kabobs are fun to assemble and even more fun to eat! Thread your favorite meats, veggies, and fruits onto skewers.
Cook them over the fire, turning occasionally, until everything is lightly charred and delicious.
5. Dutch Oven Delight: Campfire Cobbler
End your meal on a sweet note with a cobbler cooked in a Dutch oven. Layer fruit, a simple batter, and maybe a sprinkle of streusel topping.
Nestle the pot in the coals of your campfire and let the heat work its magic. The result? A warm, gooey dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
6. Breakfast for Dinner: Campfire Hash
Who says breakfast food is just for mornings? Dice up potatoes, onions, peppers, and any other veggies you like.
Sauté them in a skillet over the fire, then add in some cooked breakfast sausage or bacon. Top with a fried egg for a satisfying meal that’s ready in a flash.
7. Taco Tuesday… in the Woods!
Tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, and they’re surprisingly easy to make while camping.
Warm tortillas over the fire, then fill them with seasoned ground beef (or your favorite protein), shredded cheese, salsa, and all your favorite fixings.
8. Pasta Primavera: Campfire Style
Bring a pot of water to a boil over the campfire and cook your favorite pasta. Meanwhile, sauté chopped veggies like broccoli, carrots, and zucchini in a skillet.
Toss the cooked pasta with veggies, some olive oil, and your favorite herbs and spices for a fresh and flavorful meal.
9. Campfire Quesadillas
Quesadillas are quick, easy, and infinitely customizable. Spread tortillas with cheese, beans, or cooked meat, then fold them in half and grill them over the fire until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. The Classic S’mores Upgrade
S’mores are a camping staple, but why not get creative? Add a layer of peanut butter, Nutella, or fruit to your graham cracker sandwich for a tasty twist on the classic.
11. Campfire Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with beans, cheese, and your favorite nacho toppings in a foil pan. Heat it over the fire until the cheese is melted and gooey, then dig in!
12. Tin Foil Salmon with Lemon and Dill
Wrap salmon fillets in foil with lemon slices, fresh dill, and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook them over the campfire until the salmon is flaky and cooked through. It’s a light and healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor.
13. Campfire Banana Boats
Slice bananas lengthwise and fill them with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and any other treats you like.
Wrap them in foil and cook them over the fire until the bananas are soft and the fillings are melted. It’s a fun and easy dessert that kids will love.
14. Campfire French Toast
Soak bread slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla. Cook them in a skillet over the fire until they’re golden brown and delicious.
Top with maple syrup, fruit, or whipped cream for a sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
15. Walking Tacos
Crush up individual bags of Fritos or Doritos and add all your favorite taco toppings—ground beef, cheese, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
It’s a mess-free way to enjoy tacos on the go.
16. Grilled Cheese with a Twist
Grilled cheese is a camping classic, but why not try adding some sliced apples, bacon, or avocado for an extra flavor boost?
17. Campfire Popcorn
Pop popcorn over the campfire in a foil-lined skillet or a special popcorn popper. Drizzle it with melted butter and your favorite seasonings for a salty, crunchy snack.
18. Campfire Stew
A hearty stew is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly night.
Combine beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and any other veggies you like in a Dutch oven. Add broth, and seasonings, and let it simmer over the fire until everything is tender and flavorful.
19. Campfire Jambalaya
This Cajun-inspired dish is full of flavor and easy to make in a single pot. Sauté sausage, chicken, or shrimp with onions, peppers, and celery.
Add rice, tomatoes, broth, and spices like cayenne pepper and paprika. Let it simmer until the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded together.
20. Campfire Frittata
Whisk together eggs, milk, and your favorite veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and onions. Pour the mixture into a cast-iron skillet and cook it over the fire until the eggs are set. Top with cheese and let it melt for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
21. Campfire Hot Dogs… Gourmet Style!
Hot dogs are a camping staple, but why not elevate them? Wrap them in bacon, grill them over the fire, and top them with gourmet toppings like caramelized onions, sauerkraut, and spicy mustard.