Camping Grilling Tips for the Great Outdoors

Make Every Campout Delicious with Char-Griller

Whether you're pitching a tent in the woods or parking your RV by the lake, camping meals are more than just sustenance; they're memories in the making. With the right grilling tools, you can turn any campsite into your own open-air kitchen. From sizzling breakfasts to fire-kissed dinners, Char-Griller has portable grills and smokers to keep your camp crew well-fed and fired up.

Nothing brings the campsite together like a hot meal straight off the grill.

Your next camping trip deserves more than granola bars and PB&J sandwiches. With our Portable Flat Iron® Gas Griddle, AKORN Jr.® Kamado, and Side Fire Box, you have everything you need to whip up chef-level meals, even if you're miles from the nearest kitchen.

Outdoor Grilling Tips

Before you hit the road, make sure you're prepared for grilling success with these essential outdoor tips.

1. Prep at Home: Pre-chop veggies, marinate meats, and pack them in leak-proof containers or zip-top bags to reduce mess and prep time at camp.
2. Pack Smart: Use stackable containers and label ingredients clearly to stay organized.
3. Bring Extra Fuel: Whether it's charcoal, propane, or wood chunks, always bring more fuel than you think you'll need—weather and wind can make cooks last longer.
4. Coolers Matter: Keep meats in a separate cooler from drinks and veggies to avoid cross-contamination.
5. Clean As You Go: Bring biodegradable soap, paper towels, and trash bags to make cleanup easy and eco-friendly.

Checklist for Bringing Your Grill Camping

Use this checklist as a guide to make sure you bring all your grilling essentials.

1. Portable Grill (Flat Iron Griddle, AKORN Jr., or Side Fire Box/Table Top Grill Charcoal Grill)
2. Fuel (Lump charcoal, propane, or wood)
3. Seasonings & Marinades
4. Tongs, Spatula, Grill Brush
5. Knife & Cutting Board
6. Prep Bowls or Containers
7. Paper Towels / Wet Wipes
8. Cooler with Ice Packs
9. Plates, Utensils, Napkins
10. Headlamp or Lantern (for late-night grilling)
11. Fire Extinguisher
12. Trash Bags
13. Heat-Resistant Gloves
14. Hand Sanitizer

Safety First: Grilling in the Wild

Grilling in the wild can attract different wildlife and may be banned in some areas. We recommend going to the official website of where you are camping for their rules and regulations. These are some tips we found useful.

1. Set Up on Stable Ground: Make sure your grill is level and positioned away from dry grass, tents, or anything flammable.
2. Mind the Flames: Always monitor your grill—never leave it unattended.
3. Cool Down Completely: Let coals or griddle surfaces cool entirely before packing them up.
4. Dispose Responsibly: Use designated fire-safe containers or douse coals with water until cold to the touch.
5. Keep the Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Just in case of flare-ups or fire hazards.

Portable Griddle: All-Day Outdoor Cooking

Don't let the compact size fool you, the Char-Griller Portable Flat Iron® Gas Griddle delivers big flavor in a small footprint. With 264 square inches of cooking space, this griddle is perfect for campers who want the versatility of an indoor kitchen while exploring the outdoors.

What You Can Make:

• Breakfast: Pancakes, bacon, eggs, and breakfast burritos.
• Lunch: Smash burgers, quesadillas, or Philly cheesesteaks.
• Dinner: Stir-fry, fajitas, or even seared steaks.

AKORN Jr.® Kamado Charcoal Grill: Big Flavor, Small Footprint

The AKORN Jr. Kamado Charcoal Grill is your go-to charcoal grill for authentic smoky flavor on the go. With triple-wall insulation and easy temperature control, it's ideal for low-and-slow cooks or high-heat searing—all from your campsite.

What You Can Make:

• Low & Slow: Baby back ribs or smoked chicken thighs.
• Hot & Fast: Lamb chops, grilled veggies, or kebabs.
• Creative Sides: Charred corn, sweet potato wedges, or grilled pineapple.

Pro tip: You can add the AKORN Jr. Smokin' Stone that turns your AKORN Jr. into a low and slow smoker.

Side Fire Box: Portable Grilling Power

The Portable Grill and Side Fire Box isn't just for adding smoke to your backyard grill, it's also a powerful standalone portable smoker. Whether you're tailgating or parked at a scenic overlook, the Side Fire Box lets you enjoy true smoky flavor without hauling a full-size rig.

What You Can Make:

• Classic BBQ: 3-2-1 smoked ribs, pulled pork, or brisket.
• Campfire Favorites: Smoked sausage, hot dogs, or chili in a Dutch oven.
• Snack Time: Smoked nuts, jerky, or queso dip.

Pro Tip: Use wood chunks (like hickory or apple) for deeper flavor, and pack a water pan to keep proteins moist during long cooks.

Whether you're deep in the woods, parked at a tailgate, or just grilling curbside, Char-Griller's portable lineup—the Portable Flat Iron® Griddle, AKORN Jr.®, and Side Fire Box, makes it easy to bring bold, smoky flavor wherever the road takes you.

No matter your adventure, you don't have to compromise on taste. Load up your gear, pick your grill, and fire it up, because great barbecue isn't just for the backyard. It's for every trail, campsite, and roadside stop in between.