If you're an outdoor enthusiast who loves to immerse yourself in the wilderness, then you're likely familiar with the joys of camping. The fresh air, the sound of birds chirping, the crackling of the campfire – all these elements make camping a favored activity for many. But let's face it, cooking while camping can be a daunting task. However, with the advent of portable camping grills, this challenge has been simplified.
Portable grills have revolutionized the way we cook outdoors. They are compact and lightweight, designed for easy transportation. Some models even come with a carrying case, making them the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures. In this blog post, we'll explore the many benefits of these innovative cooking tools and why they're a must-have for your next camping trip.
Portability and Convenience
One of the most significant advantages of portable grill is their convenience. These grills are specifically designed to be lightweight and compact1. This makes them incredibly easy to transport, whether you're hiking to a remote campsite or driving to a local park. Some models even include a convenient carry case, ensuring that your grill is protected during travel and easy to pack.
Versatility
Another major benefit of portable camping grills is their versatility. These grills can be set up virtually anywhere - from the back of your truck at camp to a small patio or even a parking lot for a quick dinner. This flexibility means you can enjoy a hot meal no matter where your adventures take you. Imagine enjoying a freshly grilled steak under the stars – it doesn't get much better than that!
Fuel Efficiency
In addition to being portable and versatile, camping grills are also fuel-efficient. This means they use less fuel than traditional grills, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Plus, many models use propane or charcoal, both of which are readily available and easy to carry. This fuel efficiency not only helps protect the environment but also saves you money in the long run.
Ease of Use
Camping grills are designed with ease of use in mind. They often feature easy-to-use controls and a simple setup process, making them perfect for all levels of grillers – from beginners to seasoned pros. So, even if you're new to grilling, you'll be able to whip up a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Enhanced Camping Experience
Finally, a camping grill can significantly enhance your overall camping experience. There's something special about preparing a meal outdoors while surrounded by nature. With a camping grill, you can easily cook a variety of foods, from burgers and hot dogs to fish and vegetables. This means you can enjoy a diverse menu of delicious meals, all while appreciating the great outdoors.
Conclusion
A portable camping grill is a game-changer for outdoor cooking. It offers convenience, versatility, and efficiency, making it a must-have tool for any camping trip. So, when planning your next outdoor adventure, don't forget to pack your camping grill!
Need help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Camping Grill on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Best Camping Grill - Reviews
The Best
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A Grill Designed for the Outdoors
Camping and outdoor adventures call for equipment that is specifically tailored to meet the unique demands of the wild. The Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill is a prime example of such equipment that is also an easy assembly when camping. This grill is engineered for a bonfire fire pit or campfire cooking, promising an authentic outdoor culinary experience. To prevent food such as hot dogs from rolling or falling off, the grate features upturned edges. Additionally, it boasts a wire handle designed to insulate from heat. The grill comes with a nylon bag, making it easy to pack up and carry along on your adventures.
Adjustable Locking Wire Handle for Easy Use
The Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill stands out with its adjustable locking handle. This feature allows you to easily alter the heat level of your meal. The 15" x 22" grill can be adjusted up and down the 36" long stake to achieve the perfect temperature. Moreover, it can rotate 360 degrees, providing straightforward access when placing or removing food from the fire.
Maintenance and Cleaning Made Easy
This grill grate is not just easy to use but also simple to maintain. It comes with a chrome finish that facilitates easy cleaning. While it's designed for multiple seasons of use, proper maintenance is crucial. To keep food from sticking to the grate, use cooking spray before placing it over the fire. For maintaining the grill's finish, opt for a scouring pad instead of a wire brush.
Multipurpose and Versatile
The versatility of the Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill is a key selling point. Whether you're using it as a camping grill grate or a backyard fire pit grill, it delivers excellent performance. It's perfect for cooking a wide range of foods, from meats to corn and sweet potatoes. More so, it's sturdy enough to hold your pot of coffee, making it a truly multipurpose tool.
Versatile Cooking Options: One of the main advantages of the Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill is its versatility. It functions both as a support for your camping cookware and as a grill for hot dogs and other foods.
Up-Turned Edges: The grill grate features up-turned edges. This thoughtful design prevents food from rolling or slipping into the open fire. You won't have to worry about losing your hotdogs to the flames below.
Adjustable Heat Control: This grill comes with a locking handle that easily slides up and down the stake. This feature allows you to adjust the heat on your meal, providing better control over your cooking.
Sturdy Construction: The heavy-duty grill is made to withstand the rigors of open-fire cooking. It offers durability and long-lasting use, making it a reliable companion for your camping adventures.
Size Limitations: The grill measures 15" W x 22" L, which might not be sufficient for larger gatherings or for those who prefer more cooking space.
Portability: The 36" long stake, while providing stability and ample height for heat control, might pose challenges in terms of portability. It could be cumbersome to transport, especially for backpackers or those with limited storage space.
Requires Open Fire: This grill is specifically designed for open-fire cooking. If your camping site doesn't allow open fires or if you prefer a more controlled heat source like a gas stove, this might not be the best choice.
Our Thoughts - The Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill offers an authentic outdoor cooking experience with its unique design and practical features. However, its size and the need for an open fire may limit its appeal to some users. As with any purchase, it's important to weigh these pros and cons against your specific needs and preferences.
Very Good
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A Portable Cooking Station for Every Adventure
When it comes to outdoor cooking, portability is key. The Blackstone 17-inch tabletop griddle is an ideal companion for your camping, hunting, or tailgating escapades, or truck bed. Its lightweight design, coupled with its ready-to-use nature, makes it a reliable and convenient cooking station. You can carry it with ease, and it's always prepared to serve your culinary needs, no prior setup is required!
A Spacious Platform for Varied Cooking
Despite its compact size, the Blackstone griddle surprises with its generous cooking surface. It is perfect for preparing a wide array of foods - be it pizza, hamburgers, fish, hash browns, pancakes, eggs, bacon, or vegetables. With a cooking area of 267 square inches, it has the capacity to comfortably cater to 2-4 people, making it perfect for small group outings.
Compact and Steady for Outdoor Use
The Blackstone 17" camp griddle is not just portable but also designed for stability during outdoor use. Its compact size and weight allow for easy packing and transportation for camping, tailgating, and other outdoor activities. Moreover, its sturdy feet ensure that the griddle remains stable on a variety of surfaces, from grassy landscapes to uneven, muddy terrains.
Powerful Burner for Consistent Heating
One of the standout features of this stainless steel griddle is its powerful gas burner. Capable of producing 12500 BTUs of heat, it ensures the cooking surface stays consistently hot, even when loaded with food. This uniform heating eliminates any hot or cold spots, ensuring your food cooks evenly every time.
An Innovative Approach to Grease Management
Cooking bacon or other juicy meats often means messy clean-ups. However, the Blackstone griddle comes with an innovative solution - a rear grease trap. This feature collects all the excess grease, simplifying the cleaning process post-cooking. It's just another way this griddle makes outdoor cooking a breeze.
Portability: One of the standout features of the Blackstone 1971 Grill Station is its portability. Compact in size, this grill is designed to be easily transported, making it perfect for camping or tailgating.
Spacious Cooking Surface: Despite its compact size, this grill boasts a 267-square-inch cooking surface. This allows you to cook a large amount of food simultaneously, which is especially useful when serving large groups.
Versatility: From scrambled eggs to ribs to tripe tacos, this grill can handle it all. Its flat-top design makes it ideal for cooking various types of food, offering a restaurant-quality grilling experience.
Updated Knobs & Ignition: The Blackstone 1971 Grill Station features updated knobs and ignition for enhanced usability and safety.
Maintenance: One of the main issues users report with this grill is maintenance. Regular cleaning and upkeep are required to keep it in optimal condition, which might be a drawback for some users.
Accessory Requirements: While not necessarily a con, it's worth noting that you might need to invest in some additional accessories to enhance your grilling experience.
Heat Output: While the grill has 3 round, stainless-steel burners, some users might find the total 27,000 BTUs output insufficient for their cooking needs.
Our Thoughts - The Blackstone 1971 Heavy Duty Flat Top Grill Station offers a blend of portability and versatility, making it a great option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. However, potential buyers should also consider maintenance requirements and other minor drawbacks before making a purchase.
Good Value
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The Cooking Surface Is Bigger than it looks
Introducing a cooking rack that stands out with its unique design and high functionality. The 196-square-inch chrome-plated grate offers a generous cooking surface, capable of accommodating a large volume of food all at once. But that's not all; it also ensures even and efficient heat distribution. This feature is a game-changer, making the cooking process smoother and more effective.
Ultimate Temperature Control with Dual Venting System
Our grill is designed with a dual venting system that offers superior charcoal management and temperature control. This feature allows you to adjust the heat level to your preference, ensuring perfectly grilled food every time. Whether you're grilling tender chicken or juicy steaks, this grill gives you the control you need.
Safe and Easy Transport with Three Secure Lid Locks
Safety during transport is a priority in our grill design. It features three secure lid locks that ensure the grill is safely sealed when on the move. Whether you're taking it to a picnic, a camping trip, or just moving it around in your backyard, these lid locks offer peace of mind.
Compact Design for Maximum Portability
Measuring 14 x 14 x 15 inches and weighing only 2 lbs., our grill stands out for its compactness. Its lightweight and small dimensions make it easy to carry around, making it an ideal choice for various outdoor settings. From decks, patios, and balconies to camping trips and tailgating events, this grill is ready to go wherever you go.
Durable Firebox and Convenient Ash Catcher
Our charcoal models aren't just compact and convenient; it's also built to last. It features a durable enamel-coated firebox that can withstand high temperatures and harsh conditions. Plus, it comes with a mess-free ash catcher that makes cleaning up after your barbecue a breeze. This combination of durability and convenience ensures a safe and hassle-free grilling experience.
Compact and Portable: One of the biggest advantages of the Cuisinart CCG190RB Grill is its portability1. It's lightweight and easy to transport, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities such as camping and tailgating[^5^].
Spacious Grilling Surface: Despite its compact design, this grill provides ample grilling space. With over 150 square inches of cooking surface, you can easily prepare a meal for the entire family.
Versatility: The Cuisinart CCG190RB Grill is not just limited to your backyard. Its size and design make it perfect for decks, patios, balconies, and even indoor use.
Easy to Use: This grill is user-friendly with its simple setup and operation. Even if you're new to grilling, you'll find it easy to use.
Limited Heat Control: Unlike some larger grills, this model does not offer much control over the heat, which could be a drawback for some users.
No Lid Thermometer: The grill does not come with a built-in lid thermometer. This means you'll have to monitor the cooking process more closely or invest in a separate thermometer.
Durability Concerns: Some users have raised concerns about the durability of the grill, especially when frequently transported.
Our Thoughts - The Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill offers a blend of portability and ample cooking space, making it a great option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. However, potential buyers should also consider the lack of heat control.
Very Good
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Portable Design for Versatile Use
Our propane stove is designed with portability in mind, making it an excellent addition to various outdoor settings. Whether you're at a campsite, a picnic, or on the roadside, this stove offers an easy and convenient solution to meet your cooking needs. Its compact design makes it easy to carry around, ensuring you can enjoy a warm meal wherever you are.
Shielded Burners for Wind Protection
The stove comes with two wind guards that serve an essential function - protecting the burners from wind. These shields ensure that your flame stays consistent and your cooking isn't disrupted by wind gusts. Whether you're cooking in gentle breezes or gusty winds, these guards help maintain optimal cooking conditions.
Heavy-Duty Latch for Safe Storage
The stove features a heavy-duty latch that's easy to operate and provides secure closure when the stove isn't in use. This feature ensures the stove stays compact and safe during transport, adding to its overall portability. So, whether you're moving between campsites or storing it away for the season, the latch keeps your stove safely tucked away.
Easy Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your cooking equipment clean can be a hassle, but not with our portable propane stove. It features a durable, chrome-plated grate that is easily removable, making cleanup a breeze. After your meal, simply remove the grate and clean it at your convenience, ensuring your stove is always ready for your next cooking adventure.
Precise Control and Powerful Performance
What sets this stove apart is its improved knob rotation, allowing precise temperature control and simmering capabilities. The stove features two independently adjustable burners, offering flexibility in cooking. Moreover, with 22,000 total BTUs of cooking power, it's a robust choice for outdoor cooking. It can accommodate a 12-inch and 10-inch pan and offers a burn time of up to 1 hour on high using a single 16 oz. propane cylinder (sold separately).
Powerful Performance: The Coleman Triton Camping Stove provides 11,000 BTUs per burner, offering powerful and consistent heat for all your cooking needs.
Easy to Use: The stove sets up in seconds, ignites with ease, and its flame adjustments are simple to control.
Versatility: Whether you're camping in the great outdoors, tailgating at a sports event, or simply enjoying a backyard BBQ, this stove is a reliable and versatile cooking solution.
Wind Guards: Built-in wind blockers ensure that the flame remains consistent, even in windy conditions.
Ignition Button Design: Some users have reported that the ignition button is not well designed, requiring a firm push to ignite.
Durability Concerns: While generally seen as durable, some users have raised concerns about the stove's durability when frequently transported.
Our Thoughts - The Coleman Triton 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove offers a powerful and versatile solution for your outdoor cooking needs. Its easy-to-use design, coupled with its built-in wind guards, make it a reliable choice. However, potential buyers should also consider the ignition button design.
Good
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Powerful Grilling Experience
Our grill stands out for its exceptional grilling power. It offers up to 20,000 total BTUs, ensuring your food cooks quickly and evenly. Whether you're preparing juicy steaks, succulent chicken, or grilled veggies, this grill delivers the heat you need for perfect results every time.
Precise Temperature Control with Adjustable Burners
The grill features three adjustable burners that give you more control over your cooking temperature. This improved burner technology allows for precision in heat adjustment, ensuring your food is cooked just how you like it. From searing high-heat temperatures to low-heat and slow simmering, these burners offer the flexibility you need in a grill.
Spacious Grilling Area for Varied Cookingsquare-inch
With a spacious 285-square-inch grilling area, our grill provides ample space to cook a variety of foods at once. This large grilling surface ensures you can cater to a crowd or cook different types of food simultaneously. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or a family dinner, this grill has got you covered.
Hassle-Free Setup and Takedown
One of the highlights of our grill is its easy setup and takedown. The grill comes equipped with sturdy quick-fold legs and two wheels, making it easy to set up when you're ready to grill and just as easy to pack away when you're done. This feature adds to the overall convenience and portability of the grill, making it ideal for various outdoor settings.
Built-in thermometer and Comprehensive Components
Our grill comes with an integrated thermometer built into its design for accurate temperature monitoring. This feature ensures you can keep track of the heat level without opening the lid, and retain heat and flavor inside. Additionally, the grill includes a grease tray, side tables, folding legs, and wheels, providing everything you need for a convenient grilling experience.
Versatility at Its Best
This grill truly shines in its versatility. It's perfect for various outdoor settings, from backyard and beach grilling to camping and glamping. It's also a great companion for sports events and tailgating parties. Wherever you want to enjoy delicious grilled food, our grill is ready to deliver.
High Performance: The Coleman Roadtrip 285 excels in cooking performance. With three independently adjustable burners, you can easily manage the cooking process.
Portability: The grill features sturdy quick-fold legs and wheels, offering hassle-free setup and takedown. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities.
Instastart Ignition: The grill comes with an Instastart push-button ignition for matchless lighting, making it easy to use.
Versatility: Whether you're camping, tailgating, hosting a BBQ party, or just enjoying a backyard cookout, this grill serves as a reliable cooking companion.
Size: Some users have mentioned that the grill is a bit larger than expected, which might pose storage issues.
Cleaning: Cleaning the grill could be a bit challenging, especially after heavy use.
Our Thoughts - The Coleman Roadtrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill offers a powerful and versatile solution for your outdoor cooking needs. Its high performance, coupled with its portability and easy ignition, make it a reliable choice. However, potential buyers should also consider the size and cleaning requirements.
Good
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Multi-Faceted Cooking Options
Our 4-in-1 stove is a versatile cooking solution that comes with three unique inserts - a stove, a wok, and a reversible griddle/grill. These inserts offer multiple cooking options, allowing you to switch between different cooking styles with ease. Whether you want to stir-fry, grill, or cook in a traditional stove setting, our 4-in-1 stove has got you covered.
Robust Cooking Power and Area
Despite the compact size of this small grill, our 4-in-1 stove doesn't compromise on power. It offers up to 7,000 total BTUs of heat, ensuring your food cooks quickly and evenly. Additionally, with a 100-square-inch cooking area, it provides ample space to cook a variety of dishes simultaneously, making it a great choice for small gatherings and family meals.
Portable Design for Easy Setup and Storage
One of the standout features of our 4-in-1 stove is its portable design. The stove's legs and cooktop inserts are removable, fitting conveniently inside an inverted wok for easy storage. Moreover, the stove comes with locking latches that secure the contents during transit, making it perfect for camping trips, picnics, and other outdoor adventures.
Easy Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning up after cooking can be a chore, but not with our 4-in-1 stove. It features a water tray that catches cooking grease, making cleanup a breeze. This feature not only simplifies maintenance but also ensures a healthier cooking environment by reducing excess grease and oil.
Convenient Ignition and Fuel Supply
Our 4-in-1 stove comes with a push-button ignition system for matchless lighting, making it safe and easy to use. The stove operates on a 16.4 oz. propane cylinder (sold separately), providing a convenient and efficient fuel source for your outdoor cooking needs.
Unmatched Warranty
We believe in the quality and durability of our products, which is why we offer a 3-year limited warranty on our 4-in-1 stove. This warranty further assures you of our commitment to providing a reliable and high-quality cooking solution.
Versatility: The most significant advantage of the Coleman 4-in-1 Camping Stove is its versatility1. It comes with four different inserts which can be used interchangeably, providing multiple cooking options.
Ease of Use: Users have praised the ease of use and functionality of this camping stove. Its Instastart ignition allows for matchless lighting, making it convenient for outdoor use.
Easy to Clean: The non-stick surface of the griddle makes cooking eggs and other foods a breeze, and also simplifies the cleanup process.
High Performance: With 7000 BTUs of power, this camping stove offers impressive heat output and cooking efficiency.
No Integrated Lighter: Unlike some models, this camping stove does not come with an integrated lighter. This means you'll need a separate ignitor or matches to light it up.
Size: Some users might find the size of the stove a bit large for their specific needs or storage capabilities.
Our Thoughts - The Coleman 4-in-1 Portable Propane Camping Stove offers a versatile and high-performing solution for your outdoor cooking needs. Its easy-to-use design, coupled with its multiple cooking options, make it a reliable choice. However, potential buyers should also consider the lack of an integrated lighter and size considerations.
FAQs
Are camping grills worth it?
Based on the information gathered from various sources, it can be concluded that camping grills are generally considered to be worth it. They are praised for their versatility, being able to grill a variety of foods from chicken and steaks to burgers and hot dogs.
Portable grills, which are often used for camping, are not just suitable for outdoor adventures but are also perfect for those with limited space or budget. Reviews suggest that some models, such as the Weber portable gas grill, are superior in almost every category.
However, it's important to note that not all camping grills may meet your specific needs. For example, the Camp Chef Portable Pellet was found to be quite heavy compared to other grills, and some grills may be more suited to urban environments.
In terms of value, quality, price, and ease of use, several camping grills have been tested and reviewed positively. The Nomad portable grill, despite being expensive, has been described as "worth it", offering low-tech, compact, and phenomenal cooking.
Is it OK to grill under a tent?
Based on the information from various sources, it's generally not recommended to grill under a tent. There are several reasons for this advice:
Open grills with exposed flames pose a high risk when used under a canopy or tent.
Enclosed spaces, like canopy tents with walls, can increase the potential risks of grilling.
The heat from a grill can melt some canopy materials or cause them to burst into flame, even without any parts of the grill actually touching the material.
Most canopy covers are made of polyester, vinyl, or polyethylene material, which can be hazardous when exposed to heat from a grill.
However, some sources suggest that grilling under an open canopy that's at least eight feet tall can be possible, and it's recommended to keep a minimum of 10 feet of clearance between the grill and the tent to reduce the risk of fire. Regardless, it's crucial to have good ventilation when using any gas under canvas due to the danger it can present.
Should a grill be covered after use?
Yes, a grill should be covered after use. Covering your grill can extend its life by protecting it from elements such as moisture, which can cause rust over time. A cover can also keep your grill clean and free of things like water spots, dust, dirt, pollen, tree sap, and other unwanted substances.
Covering your grill is particularly beneficial if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or if the grill is not in use for an extended period. A grill cover can prevent fading, water spots, dings, scratches, and other cosmetic damage to a grill's exterior.
However, it's important to note that the grill should only be covered by the cooking lid once it has cooled down completely. Covering a hot grill can pose a fire risk. Additionally, using the lid of the grill while cooking can turn your grill into an oven, trapping the heat and allowing it to surround your food, which can result in a more uniform doneness.
