After a long day of hiking, swimming, or just soaking in the outdoors, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. You need easy camping dinners—recipes that deliver big on flavor, require minimal prep, and leave you with more time to relax by the campfire. What if your next meal could be ready in minutes, with just a handful of ingredients, and still impress everyone at your site? Let’s dig in.
One-Pot & Foil Packet Favorites
Why juggle multiple pans when you can make a hearty meal in one pot or a foil packet? These easy camping dinners keep cleanup to a minimum and flavor to the max.
One-Pot Chili Mac
Combine ground beef (or veggie crumbles), canned chili beans, elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese in a single pot. Simmer until the pasta is tender and everything’s bubbling. Serve hot for a classic camp comfort food.
Dutch Oven Nachos
Layer tortilla chips, shredded cheese, black beans, jalapeños, and any other toppings you love in a Dutch oven. Cover and heat over the fire until the cheese melts. Top with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for a shareable feast.
Foil Packet Kielbasa & Potatoes
Slice kielbasa, potatoes, and onions. Toss with olive oil, honey mustard, salt, and pepper. Wrap in heavy-duty foil and grill over the fire until everything’s cooked through. Open carefully and enjoy straight from the packet—no plates needed.
Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Thread chunks of chicken and pineapple onto skewers. Grill over the fire for a sweet and savory dinner that’s ready in minutes. Marinate the chicken in advance for extra flavor.
Five-Ingredient Wonders
You don’t need a long grocery list to eat well at camp. These dinners use five ingredients or less and still taste amazing.
Veggie Wraps
Spread hummus on a tortilla, add sliced bell peppers, cucumber, and spinach, then roll it up. It’s refreshing, filling, and packs well for any adventure.
Classic PB&J
Never underestimate the power of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It’s quick, kid-friendly, and doesn’t need refrigeration.
Camp Quesadillas
Place cheese between two tortillas and heat on a skillet or over the fire until melted. Add beans, cooked chicken, or veggies if you want to mix it up.
Chili Dogs
Top grilled hot dogs with canned chili and shredded cheese. Serve in buns with your favorite toppings for a nostalgic, satisfying meal.
Make-Ahead & No-Cook Dinners
Sometimes, the best easy camping dinners are the ones you prep at home. These ideas save you time and effort at the campsite.
Rotisserie Chicken & Salad
Grab a rotisserie chicken from the store, pack some rolls and a bagged salad, and dinner is served. It’s filling, protein-rich, and requires zero cooking.
Pasta Salad
Make a big batch of pasta salad before your trip. Toss cooked pasta with veggies, cheese, and Italian dressing. It keeps well in the cooler and is ready whenever you are.
Charcuterie Board
Arrange cured meats, cheeses, crackers, and dried fruit on a cutting board. Add nuts or fresh fruit for variety. It’s a no-cook dinner that feels like a treat.
Kid-Approved Camp Meals
Keep the little campers happy with these easy camping dinners that are fun to make and eat.
Walking Tacos
Open a bag of corn chips, spoon in seasoned ground beef or beans, and top with cheese, lettuce, and salsa. Eat straight from the bag for zero cleanup and lots of smiles.
Pie Iron Pizza Pockets
Fill bread or pizza dough with sauce, cheese, and toppings. Cook in a pie iron over the fire until golden and gooey. Kids love assembling their own creations.
Mac and Cheese
Make ahead and reheat, or cook at camp with just pasta, cheese, and milk. For extra protein, stir in cooked sausage or bacon.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
Plant-based campers don’t have to settle for boring meals. These easy camping dinners are hearty and full of flavor.
Lentil Sloppy Joes
Simmer lentils with tomato sauce, onions, and spices. Serve on buns for a satisfying, protein-packed dinner that’s easy to make in one pot.
Sweet Potato Peanut Stew
Combine diced sweet potatoes, peanut butter, tomatoes, and spices in a pot. Simmer until thick and creamy. It’s comforting and perfect for cool evenings.
Grilled Veggie Skewers
Thread bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Brush with olive oil and grill until tender. Serve with rice or pita bread.
Pro Tips for Stress-Free Camp Cooking
- Prep at Home: Chop veggies, marinate proteins, and pre-cook grains before you leave.
- Pack Smart: Bring multi-use ingredients and tools, like tortillas and a cast iron skillet.
- Keep It Simple: Choose recipes with minimal steps and ingredients.
- Clean as You Go: Use foil packets and one-pot meals to reduce dishwashing.
- Plan for Leftovers: Make extra for lunch the next day.
Read more: Best Hiking Snacks to Keep You Energized on the Trail
FAQ: Easy Camping Dinners
What are the easiest camping dinners to make?
One-pot meals, foil packet dinners, and pre-made salads are the easiest. Try chili mac, foil packet kielbasa, or rotisserie chicken with salad for quick and tasty options.
How can I eat well while camping with minimal gear?
Focus on recipes that use a single pot, skillet, or grill. Pre-chop ingredients and use canned or pre-cooked proteins to save time.
What are some make-ahead camping dinners?
Pasta salad, mac and cheese, and chili can all be made ahead and reheated at camp. Rotisserie chicken and charcuterie boards are great no-cook options.
Are there easy camping dinners for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Lentil sloppy joes, veggie wraps, and grilled veggie skewers are all simple, filling, and delicious.
How do I keep camp cooking stress-free?
Prep as much as possible at home, pack versatile ingredients, and stick to tried-and-true recipes. Clean up as you go and use disposable or reusable containers for easy storage.
With these easy camping dinners, you’ll spend less time cooking and cleaning—and more time enjoying the great outdoors. Try a few on your next trip, and see how simple (and tasty) camp cooking can be.