There’s nothing better than the smell of sizzling burgers at a campsite, but we’ve all experienced the other side: trying to cook on an unstable stove or an unpredictable campfire. A meal that should be the highlight of the day can quickly become a frustrating chore. A great portable grill changes all of that, transforming your campsite into a functional outdoor kitchen and giving you the power and control to cook fantastic meals with ease.
Finding the right grill can be overwhelming, which is why I’ve done the hard work for you. After spending hours analyzing specifications, sifting through hundreds of real-world user reviews, and separating the durable performers from the duds, I’ve compiled the definitive list for 2025. This guide will break down the top 10 best camping grills on the market, helping you choose the perfect model to elevate your next outdoor adventure.
Editor’s Picks: The Best Camping Grills of 2025
In a hurry? Here are our top picks across four key categories. These grills represent the best combination of performance, portability, and value available today.
| Category | Grill | Why It Wins |
| Best Overall | Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill | The gold standard. It offers unmatched build quality, fantastic cooking performance, and perfect portability for almost any camper. |
| Best for Large Groups | Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill | A full-size grill experience in a brilliantly portable package. Its one-handed setup and large cooking area are perfect for families. |
| Best Value | Coleman RoadTrip 225 Tabletop Grill | This grill packs two independent burners and solid performance into a compact, affordable package. It’s versatile and budget-friendly. |
| Best Charcoal Grill | PK Grills Portable Charcoal Grill | For the charcoal purist, this cast aluminum grill is a masterpiece of durability and heat control, perfect for both grilling and smoking. |
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Camping Grill
Focus on these key factors to find the right grill for you.
- Fuel Type: Propane is convenient and offers instant temperature control. Charcoal provides superior flavor but requires more time and cleanup.
- Size & Portability: Consider your camping style. Car campers can handle larger, heavier grills, while those tight on space should look for compact, lightweight models. Check the folded dimensions and weight.
- Cooking Area & BTUs: A cooking area of 150-200 sq. in. is good for 2-3 people; families should look for 280+ sq. in. BTUs measure heat, but efficiency is key. A range of 8,500 to 20,000 BTUs is a good benchmark depending on grill size.
- Build Materials: Look for a rust-proof cast aluminum body and porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates. These materials offer the best performance and durability.
Top 10 Camping Grills – Ranked by Quality & Performance
After careful evaluation, we’ve selected the 10 best models from a list of top contenders. These grills are ranked based on their overall performance, build quality, feature set, and value for money.
1. Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
- Best For: The camper who wants the best all-around performance and reliability.
- My Rating: 5/5
🔍 Overview:
The Weber Q1200 is, in my opinion, the closest thing to a perfect camping grill. It features a durable cast aluminum body, porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, and a powerful 8,500 BTU burner across a 189 sq. in. cooking area. It’s compact and light enough (around 30 lbs) for easy transport but cooks like a much larger grill. Key features include an easy-start electronic ignition, a built-in lid thermometer for precise temperature control, and two convenient folding side tables. It heats up fast, cooks evenly, and is built to last for years. It offers a better, more consistent cooking experience than almost any other portable grill on the market.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Exceptional build quality (cast aluminum/iron) | A bit heavier than ultra-lightweight models |
| Heats evenly and holds temperature well | Single burner limits two-zone cooking |
| Built-in thermometer and folding side tables | |
| Legendary Weber reliability and performance |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Owners consistently praise its “set it and forget it” reliability. One review noted, “It just works, every time. It gets hot enough to sear a steak perfectly but can hold a low temp for chicken.” Another user commented on its durability: “I’ve had mine for 5 years, taken it on dozens of trips, and it still fires up on the first click. It’s worth every penny.”
2. Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill
Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill
- Best For: Families and large groups who need a full-size grilling experience.
- My Rating: 4.8/5
🔍 Overview:
The Weber Traveler solves the biggest problem with large-format camping grills: portability. This grill is a beast, offering a massive 320 sq. in. cooking area and a 13,000 BTU burner, enough to cook for a big crew. Its genius lies in its integrated cart design. It folds down flat for transport and can be set up or taken down with one hand. The grill is attached to the cart, so there’s no separate stand to worry about. With rugged wheels, a large side table, and the same high-quality cast-iron grates as other Webers, it brings true backyard performance to the campground.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Huge 320 sq. in. cooking surface | Heavy (around 47 lbs) and bulky for small cars |
| Brilliant one-hand setup and fold-down cart | High price point |
| Powerful burner for excellent heat | |
| Large side table and built-in thermometer |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Users are blown away by the convenience. “The one-handed setup is a game-changer,” one reviewer stated. “I can be ready to grill in less than a minute.” Its cooking ability is also a major highlight: “I cooked 15 burgers at once for a family reunion, and they all came out perfect. This isn’t just a camping grill; it’s our main grill now.”
3. Coleman RoadTrip 225 Portable Tabletop Propane Grill
Coleman RoadTrip 225 Portable Tabletop Propane Grill
- Best For: Campers seeking versatility and value.
- My Rating: 4.6/5
🔍 Overview:
The Coleman RoadTrip 225 offers a fantastic feature set at an unbeatable price. Its key advantage is the two independently adjustable burners, with a total output of 11,000 BTUs across a 225 sq. in. cooking area. This allows you to create two different heat zones—perfect for searing on one side and warming on the other. It has an instant push-button ignition and porcelain-coated cast iron grates. While it’s designed as a tabletop grill, an optional stand is available. It’s a versatile, reliable workhorse that provides features usually found on more expensive models.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Two independently controlled burners | Build quality is good but not on par with Weber |
| Excellent value for the features offered | Can be prone to flare-ups if not kept clean |
| Good-sized cooking area | |
| Reliable push-button ignition |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Owners love the dual-burner functionality. “Being able to cook veggies on low on one side while I sear steaks on the other is incredible for a portable grill,” one user commented. Another highlighted its practicality: “It’s the perfect size for our family of three. Heats up fast, cooks evenly, and doesn’t break the bank.”
4. PK Grills Portable Charcoal Grill (PK200-SFL)
PK Grills Portable Charcoal Grill (PK200-SFL)
- Best For: Charcoal purists and those who want a grill that will last a lifetime.
- My Rating: 4.8/5
🔍 Overview:
The PK Grill is a modern classic. Its iconic shape isn’t just for looks; the thick cast aluminum construction is incredibly efficient at retaining and radiating heat. This makes it fantastic for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking. It features a 200 sq. in. cooking surface and a unique 4-point venting system that gives you surgical precision over your airflow and temperature. This grill is built like a tank and will likely be the last portable charcoal grill you ever buy. While it requires the effort of charcoal, it rewards you with unparalleled flavor and durability.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Thick cast aluminum build is incredibly durable | Requires the time and effort of using charcoal |
| Excellent heat retention and control for smoking | Heavier than typical steel kettle grills |
| 4-point venting system for precision | |
| Will not rust |
📣 Real-World Insights:
The PK has a cult-like following. “This isn’t a grill, it’s an heirloom,” one owner proclaimed. “The temperature control is amazing. I can sear steaks at 600 degrees or smoke a pork shoulder for hours.” Another noted, “It’s heavy, but that’s because it’s built to last. The flavor you get from this thing is something no gas grill can replicate.”
5. Coleman Gas Grill Portable Propane Grill (RoadTrip Series)
Coleman Gas Grill Portable Propane Grill (RoadTrip Series)
- Best For: Car campers who value convenience and swappable cooktops.
- My Rating: 4.4/5
🔍 Overview:
This is the iconic, full-size Coleman RoadTrip grill that has dominated campsites for years. It features a large 285 sq. in. cooking area with two powerful burners putting out a combined 20,000 BTUs. Its main selling points are the quick-folding legs and wheels for easy transport and the Swaptop™ interchangeable cooktops. You can swap out the grill grates for griddles or stove grates (sold separately), making it an incredibly versatile outdoor cooking station. With two side tables and push-button ignition, it’s a complete and proven system for any car camping trip.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Large cooking area and powerful burners | Heavy and takes up significant space |
| Swappable cooktops for ultimate versatility | Water pan for grease management can be messy |
| Folds down compactly for its size | |
| Two large side tables |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Users love its all-in-one nature. “I bought the griddle plates, and now I can cook bacon and eggs in the morning and grill steaks at night, all on the same unit,” one review reads. Another camper said, “It’s the centerpiece of our camp kitchen. It’s sturdy, gets plenty hot, and the side tables are essential.”
6. Weber Go-Anywhere Gas Grill
Weber Go-Anywhere Gas Grill
- Best For: Solo campers, couples, and those with limited storage space.
- My Rating: 4.5/5
🔍 Overview:
The Weber Go-Anywhere lives up to its name. This is the ultimate grill for portability. Its clever design features steel legs that pivot to lock the lid in place, creating a compact, briefcase-style package that is incredibly easy to transport and store. Despite its small size, it boasts a 160 sq. in. cooking area and a 6,500 BTU burner that heats the space surprisingly well. The porcelain-enameled steel grate is easy to clean, and the push-button ignition is reliable. For tailgating, beach trips, or simple camping for two, the Go-Anywhere is a classic for a reason.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Extremely portable and compact design | Small cooking surface isn’t ideal for groups |
| Legs lock the lid for easy carrying | Lower BTU output requires patience to preheat |
| Lightweight and easy to store | |
| Surprisingly even cooking for its size |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Portability is its most praised feature. “I can slide this grill behind the seat of my truck and it takes up almost no space,” one user reported. “It’s perfect for a quick lunch at a roadside park.” Another said, “Don’t let the size fool you. I can easily fit 4-5 burgers on here, and it cooks them perfectly. It’s my go-to for simple trips.”
7. Cuisinart Grillster Portable Gas Grill
Cuisinart Grillster Portable Gas Grill
- Best For: Picnics, beach days, and budget-minded campers.
- My Rating: 4.2/5
🔍 Overview:
The Cuisinart Grillster is a simple, no-frills, ultra-portable grill that gets the job done. It’s incredibly lightweight (around 10 lbs) and compact, making it a breeze to carry from the car to the campsite. It offers a 146 sq. in. cooking surface and an 8,000 BTU burner, which is plenty of power for its size. The lid latches securely for transport, and the legs fold away for storage. It doesn’t have fancy features like a thermometer or side tables, but for someone who just needs a basic, reliable, and affordable grill for burgers and dogs, the Grillster is an excellent choice.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Very lightweight and portable | No built-in thermometer |
| Affordable price point | Build quality is not as robust as premium models |
| Heats up quickly | |
| Simple to use and clean |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Owners appreciate its simplicity and portability. “It’s the perfect little grill to keep in the trunk of my car for impromptu picnics,” one review states. “It’s light enough to carry to the beach without any hassle.” Another adds, “For the price, you can’t beat it. It cooks hot dogs and burgers for my kids perfectly.”
8. Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared Grill
Solaire SOL-EV17A Everywhere Portable Infrared Grill
- Best For: Campers who demand steakhouse-quality searing power.
- My Rating: 4.4/5
🔍 Overview:
The Solaire Everywhere brings a unique technology to the campsite: infrared grilling. Instead of just heating the air, the powerful 14,000 BTU infrared burner heats food directly, allowing it to reach scorching temperatures in minutes. This is the secret to achieving a perfect steakhouse sear. Made from durable 304 stainless steel, this grill is built for high performance. The “V-grate” grilling surface helps reduce flare-ups and enhances flavor. While its focus on high-heat searing makes it less of an all-rounder, for grill masters who prioritize a perfect crust on their meat, the Solaire is in a class of its own.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Intense infrared heat for incredible searing | High price for its size |
| Heats up in just 3 minutes | Not ideal for low-and-slow cooking |
| High-quality stainless steel construction | |
| Reduces flare-ups and vaporizes drippings |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Steak lovers are obsessed with this grill. “This thing is a flamethrower! It puts the best crust on a steak I’ve ever achieved at home or camping,” one user raved. Another noted, “It’s a specialized tool, but if you love grilling meat, it’s a game-changer. The speed and heat are just on another level compared to conventional grills.”
9. Cuisinart Venture Portable Gas Grill
Cuisinart Venture Portable Gas Grill
- Best For: Style-conscious campers and gourmet picnickers.
- My Rating: 4.1/5
🔍 Overview:
The Cuisinart Venture stands out with its unique and stylish design. It looks less like a grill and more like a modern picnic basket. The stackable design features the grill on the bottom and a lid that doubles as a wooden cutting board. It’s incredibly clever and convenient. The 9,000 BTU burner heats a 154 sq. in. porcelain-enameled cast-iron grate. A built-in propane tank storage base keeps everything tidy. While it’s more focused on aesthetics than raw power, its unique form factor and included cutting board make it a fantastic and fun grill for a gourmet outing.
| ✅ What We Loved | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Unique, stylish, and compact stackable design | A bit bulky and awkward to carry |
| Lid doubles as a wooden cutting board | Not as powerful as other grills in its class |
| Cast iron grate for good searing | |
| Integrated propane storage |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Owners love the design. “I get compliments on this grill every time I take it out. The cutting board lid is genius,” one person wrote. Another commented on its practicality for small meals: “It’s perfect for a wine and cheese picnic. I can grill up some sausages and slice up the cheese and bread all in one little package.”
10. Cuisinart Chef’s Style Tabletop Portable Propane Gas Grill
Cuisinart Chef's Style Tabletop Portable Propane Gas Grill
- Best For: Campers who want to cook more complex meals.
- My Rating: 4.3/5
🔍 Overview:
This Cuisinart tabletop grill brings serious power and control. It features two independent stainless steel burners that combine for a powerful 20,000 BTUs—an incredible amount of heat for a portable unit. This power heats a 277 sq. in. stainless steel grate, providing plenty of space for larger meals. The dual burners allow for true two-zone cooking, a feature typically reserved for backyard grills. It includes a built-in thermometer and a twist-start ignition. If you want the ability to boil water on one side while grilling on the other, this is one of the most powerful and capable tabletop models you can buy.
| ✅ Pros | ❌ What to Watch Out For |
| Very powerful with 20,000 BTUs | Stainless steel grates don’t sear as well as cast iron |
| Two independent burners for heat control | Can use fuel quickly on high settings |
| Large 277 sq. in. cooking surface | |
| Durable stainless steel construction |
📣 Real-World Insights:
Users are impressed by its power. “This thing gets HOT. It’s like having a real backyard grill in a portable size,” one review states. The versatility is another key point: “I love being able to have two different temperatures going. I can keep cooked food warm on one side while I finish grilling on the other. It makes cooking for a group so much easier.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is propane or charcoal better for camping?
Propane is best for convenience and control. Charcoal is best for authentic smoky flavor. Choose based on your priority.
How many BTUs do I need for a camping grill?
Don’t just focus on BTUs. A well-made grill with 8,000-10,000 BTUs can easily outperform a poorly-made one with more. Grill efficiency and quality materials matter most.
Can I use a large 20lb propane tank with a camping grill?
Yes, most portable grills can connect to a 20lb tank using a separate adapter hose. This is great for longer trips and saves money.
How do I clean my camping grill?
After cooking, close the lid and turn the grill on high for 10-15 minutes to burn off residue. Once cool, scrub the grates with a grill brush.