Imagine this: the crackling campfire, the scent of pine needles, and the promise of a delicious meal cooked under the open sky. But what if your campfire cooking dreams are being held back by a rusty, wobbly grill that just won’t cooperate? Choosing the right camp grill can feel like a big challenge. There are so many kinds, and it’s tricky to know which one will be your best buddy on your next adventure.
This is where we come in! We know the frustration of a grill that’s too heavy, too small, or just plain difficult to use. That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of camp grills. By reading on, you’ll discover what makes a great camp grill, learn about the different types available, and find out how to pick the perfect one for your camping style. Get ready to upgrade your outdoor cooking game!
Our Top 5 Camp Grills Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Camp Grills Detailed Reviews
1. Coleman Triton 2-Burner Propane Stove
Rating: 9.0/10
Planning your next outdoor adventure? The Coleman Triton 2-Burner Propane Stove is your go-to for delicious meals wherever you roam. This portable cooktop packs a punch with 22,000 BTUs of power, making it ideal for everything from camping trips and tailgating parties to backyard BBQs. Its sturdy design and smart features ensure you can cook up a storm with ease.
What We Like:
- It’s super portable, making it easy to take camping, to picnics, or even on road trips.
- The two wind guards are a lifesaver, keeping your flames steady even when it’s breezy.
- The heavy-duty latch securely closes the stove when you’re done, so it’s easy to carry.
- Cleaning up is a breeze thanks to the removable, chrome-plated grate.
- You get precise heat control with the improved knobs, perfect for simmering or high-heat cooking on two separate burners.
- It’s powerful, with 22,000 total BTUs to get your food cooking fast.
- It fits pans as large as 12 inches, giving you plenty of room to cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- A single 16 oz. propane cylinder only lasts about an hour on high heat, so you might need extras for longer cooking.
This Coleman stove is a reliable and powerful companion for all your outdoor cooking needs. Get ready to enjoy fantastic meals cooked right in the great outdoors!
2. Coleman Tabletop 2-in-1 Camping Grill/Stove
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for your next outdoor adventure with the Coleman Tabletop 2-in-1 Camping Grill/Stove! This handy gadget lets you grill and cook at the same time. It’s perfect for camping trips, tailgating parties, or just grilling in your backyard. You get a powerful cooking setup that’s easy to use and carry.
What We Like:
- You can grill and use the stove at the same time. This is super convenient!
- It has two burners that give you a total of 20,000 BTUs of cooking power. That’s a lot of heat!
- The adjustable burners let you control the temperature exactly how you want it.
- WindBlock panels protect your flames from the wind, or you can fold them down to use as extra tables.
- It’s made of strong, rust-resistant material, so it will last a long time.
- Cleaning up is simple with the removable grease tray.
- The PerfectFlow regulator makes sure the heat stays steady, even when it’s cold or windy.
What Could Be Improved:
- One propane cylinder only lasts about 2 hours on high heat. You’ll need extras for longer cooking.
- The grilling area is 130 square inches, which might be a bit small for feeding a large group.
This grill/stove is a fantastic addition to your outdoor gear. It makes cooking delicious meals in the great outdoors much easier and more fun.
3. Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo with Lid
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for amazing outdoor cooking with the Royal Gourmet PD1305H 3 Burner Propane Gas Grill and Griddle Combo. This grill is designed for adventure, letting you cook up a storm wherever you go. It’s a smart choice for anyone who loves to grill, griddle, or even boil something on the side.
What We Like:
- It’s a 3-in-1 cooking machine! You can use the griddle, the grill, or even a pot on the handy pot rack.
- It’s super portable, making it ideal for camping trips, tailgates, or just backyard fun.
- You get a lot of cooking space with 364 square inches, enough for a good-sized crowd.
- It’s powerful, with 29,000 BTUs, and heats up quickly.
- The built-in lid for the side burner can also be used as a small shelf, which is really handy.
- Cleaning up is easy thanks to removable grease cups.
- It starts up easily with battery-free piezo ignition.
- It cooks food evenly with its stainless steel burners and flame tamers.
What Could Be Improved:
- While portable, it might still be a bit heavy for some to carry long distances.
- The side burner lid has a weight limit of 10 lbs, so you can’t put very heavy pots on it.
The Royal Gourmet PD1305H offers fantastic versatility and power for any outdoor cooking adventure. It’s a great way to enjoy delicious meals outside.
4. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill with 3 Adjustable Burners & Instastart Ignition
Rating: 8.9/10
Ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level? The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill is your new go-to for delicious meals anywhere. This grill packs a punch with 20,000 BTUs of power, enough to cook up a feast for friends and family. Its stand-up design makes grilling comfortable, and the InstaStart ignition means you’re cooking in seconds. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just enjoying a backyard BBQ, this grill handles it all.
What We Like:
- It delivers a powerful 20,000 BTUs for quick and efficient grilling.
- Three adjustable burners give you great control over your cooking temperatures.
- The 285 square inch grilling area is spacious enough for burgers, steaks, and veggies.
- Setup is a breeze with its sturdy, quick-fold legs and two wheels for easy transport.
- An integrated thermometer helps you keep an eye on the heat.
- Push-button ignition makes lighting the grill simple and safe.
- It comes with a 3-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- A propane cylinder is not included and must be purchased separately.
- While portable, it can be a bit heavy for some to carry long distances.
Overall, the Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a versatile and powerful grill that makes outdoor cooking convenient and enjoyable. It’s a solid choice for anyone who loves to grill on the go.
5. Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Grill
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready for some serious grilling on the go with the Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Grill. This grill packs a punch with its 10,000 BTU U-shaped burner, ensuring your food cooks fast and even. Its sleek silver design looks great on any deck, at a campsite, or cheering on your favorite team at a tailgate. Setting it up is a breeze, and cleaning it up afterwards is just as simple.
What We Like:
- It’s super portable! The folding legs and lockable lid with a handle make it easy to take anywhere, from your patio to the great outdoors.
- You get a good amount of cooking space: 285 square inches total, with a 214 sq. in. grate for your main grilling and a 71 sq. in. warming rack for keeping things toasty.
- The U-shaped burner heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly, giving you great results every time.
- Cleanup is no big deal. The big stainless steel grease tray catches all the mess and is easy to remove and clean.
- Assembly is quick and simple, so you can start grilling sooner.
What Could Be Improved:
- You’ll need to buy a 1 lb propane tank separately, as it’s not included with the grill.
- While it’s great for portable use, the 10,000 BTU might not be enough for extremely large cookouts or thicker cuts of meat that require very high heat for a long time.
The Royal Gourmet GT1001 is a fantastic option for anyone who loves to grill but needs portability. It’s a reliable and easy-to-use grill that makes outdoor cooking enjoyable.
Choosing the Best Camp Grill: Your Outdoor Cooking Companion
Planning your next camping trip? A good camp grill makes cooking outdoors a breeze. It lets you enjoy delicious meals under the stars. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide helps you find the perfect camp grill for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
Size and Portability
- Compactness: Does it fold down small?
- Weight: Is it easy to carry?
- Handles: Does it have sturdy handles for carrying?
A small, lightweight grill is best for hikers and car campers. If you have more space, a larger grill might be better.
Cooking Surface
- Grates: Are they durable and easy to clean?
- Size: Is there enough space for your food?
Stainless steel grates last longer. A larger cooking area lets you cook for more people at once.
Fuel Type
- Propane: Easy to use, heats up fast.
- Charcoal: Gives smoky flavor, can take longer to heat.
- Wood: Natural flavor, requires more skill.
Propane grills are popular for their convenience. Charcoal offers a classic smoky taste. Wood adds a unique flavor.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
- Setup: Does it set up quickly?
- Ignition: Does it have an easy start button?
- Cleaning: Are the parts removable for cleaning?
A grill that’s simple to set up and clean means more time for fun. Look for removable grates and drip pans.
Important Materials
The materials of your camp grill affect its durability and performance.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is strong and resists rust. It’s great for grates and the grill body. It heats evenly and is easy to clean.
Cast Iron
Cast iron heats very well and holds its temperature. It can be heavy. It needs to be seasoned and cared for to prevent rust.
Aluminum
Aluminum is lightweight. It heats up quickly. It might not be as durable as stainless steel or cast iron.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality
- Sturdy Construction: A grill that feels solid and well-built will last longer.
- Even Heat Distribution: This ensures your food cooks uniformly.
- Wind Baffles: These protect the flame from wind, keeping your cooking consistent.
- Drip Pans: These catch grease, making cleanup easier and reducing flare-ups.
Reducing Quality
- Thin Metal: Thin metal can warp or rust easily.
- Flimsy Parts: Weak hinges or legs make the grill less stable.
- Poor Design: A grill that’s hard to light or clean is frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your camp grill. This helps you choose the right features.
Backpacking and Hiking
For these activities, you need a grill that is extremely lightweight and compact. Small, foldable grills that fit in a backpack are ideal. They often use small propane canisters.
Car Camping
Car campers have more flexibility. You can choose larger, more powerful grills. These can have multiple burners and larger cooking surfaces. They offer more features for preparing elaborate meals.
Tailgating and Picnics
Portability is key here. Grills that set up quickly and are easy to transport are best. Some have built-in tables or storage for convenience.
A good camp grill enhances your outdoor dining experience. By considering these features, materials, and your specific needs, you can find a grill that serves you well on many adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best fuel type for a camp grill?
A: The best fuel type depends on your needs. Propane is convenient and easy to use. Charcoal offers a smoky flavor. Wood provides a unique taste.
Q: How important is the grill’s weight?
A: Weight is very important if you plan to hike or carry the grill long distances. For car camping, weight is less of a concern.
Q: Are stainless steel grates better than cast iron?
A: Stainless steel is lighter, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. Cast iron heats very well and holds heat but is heavier and requires more maintenance.
Q: How do I clean my camp grill?
A: Most camp grills have removable grates and drip pans. Use a grill brush to clean the grates. Wash removable parts with soap and water. Wipe down the exterior.
Q: Can I cook more than just burgers and hot dogs?
A: Yes! You can cook vegetables, fish, and even pizzas on a camp grill. Some grills come with accessories like griddles.
Q: What makes a camp grill easy to use?
A: Easy setup, a reliable ignition system, and simple cleaning make a grill user-friendly.
Q: Should I worry about wind when grilling outdoors?
A: Yes. Wind can affect cooking temperature. Look for grills with wind baffles or set up your grill in a sheltered spot.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a camp grill?
A: Prices vary widely. Basic portable grills can cost $30-$50. More advanced models can range from $100-$300 or more.
Q: Are there camp grills powered by electricity?
A: Yes, electric camp grills exist, but they require a power source, which can limit their use in remote areas.
Q: What is the most important feature for a beginner camper?
A: For beginners, ease of use, quick setup, and simple cleaning are the most important features. Propane grills are often recommended.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.