Someone using 2 long metal spatulas tosses sliced onions, bell peppers, and meat while making fajitas on a small Flat iron griddle.

Easy Campfire Grilling

Grilling Made Simple, Even Off the Grid

Benefits of Grilling While Camping

Grilling while camping isn't just convenient—it's a great way to make the most of your surroundings. If you're near the coast or a lake, fresh-caught fish or seafood can go straight from the water to the grill. Out in the woods? Wild game or foraged vegetables can become part of the meal with just a little prep. Cooking over charcoal gives you a simple, reliable heat source and brings out rich, smoky flavors that you just can't replicate on a stove. It also minimizes dishes, which means less time cleaning and more time relaxing around the fire. Whether you're cooking store-bought staples or something you harvested that day, grilling adds both flexibility and flavor to your outdoor meals.

Whether it's fresh-caught fish or something you packed ahead, grilling adds both flexibility and flavor to your outdoor meals.

Start with the right charcoal

The type of charcoal you use can make a real difference, especially when cooking outdoors. Lump charcoal is a solid choice for camping—it's made from natural hardwood, which means it burns hotter and cleaner than traditional briquets. You'll get a steady, reliable heat source and that unmistakable wood-fired flavor without a lot of ash to deal with afterward. When space and supplies are limited, choosing quality lump charcoal helps you cook more efficiently and enjoy a better overall grilling experience at camp.

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Why the Char-Griller Portable Pro™ Is Perfect for Camping

Whether you're deep in the woods or hanging out by the lake, the Portable Pro™ Charcoal Grill is built for life outdoors. Here's what makes it a top choice for campers:

  • Portable and Lightweight: This grill is compact enough to fit in your car or truck bed without sacrificing cooking space.
  • Dual Functionality: Use it as a standalone charcoal grill or attach it as a Side Fire Box to any Char-Griller barrel-style grill.
  • Cast Iron Grates: Durable and perfect for searing burgers, brats, or veggies over an open flame.
  • Easy Clean-Up: The convenient ash pan makes disposal a breeze so you can spend less time cleaning and more time exploring.
"The Portable Pro Charcoal Grill is worth every penny—solid construction, great heat control, and plenty of space whether you're grilling pork chops at camp or smoking low and slow at home." - actual reviewer

Charcoal Grill vs. Gas Griddle: Which Is Best for Camping?

When it comes to camp cooking, choosing between a portable charcoal grill and a camping gas griddle depends on your style and menu. A charcoal grill delivers that classic smoky flavor and is great for searing steaks, grilling burgers, or cooking over direct heat. It's especially ideal if you enjoy traditional BBQ while camping. A gas griddle, on the other hand, heats up quickly and offers a flat cooking surface—perfect for making breakfast, stir-fries, or delicate foods like fish and veggies. If you're comparing a griddle vs. grill for camping, think about what you'll be cooking most and how much setup time you want. Both are solid options—it just comes down to whether you prioritize smoky flavor or quick, even heat.

Recipe Roundup

Cooking outdoors doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor. With just a little planning, you can make some seriously good meals right at your campsite. Below, we've rounded up a few recipes that are simple, satisfying, and made for the open fire—perfect for your next weekend away.