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Easy Camping Food: A Guide to Simple and Delicious Meals

Looking for easy camping food that won’t be a hassle?

You’ve landed in the perfect spot.

We’re sharing our go-to easy camping meals that make life on the road healthy and fulfilling.

From quick campfire breakfasts and filling one-pot dinners to easy camping food ideas under the stars, we’ve got meals that are sure to satisfy without eating into your exploration time.

And the cherry on top?

These camping dishes don’t need a bunch of ingredients.

Chances are, you’ve already got several of the things you need to whip up some simple camping meals right away.

What To Cook Camping?

Planning camping recipes can be overwhelming, but don’t worry!

We understand the stress of figuring out what recipes to prepare and what kitchen camping gear to include.

With our helpful easy camping meal ideas below, You’ll feel confident and at ease planning your camping meals.

And don’t forget to check out our amazing camping cocktail recipes to add some extra fun to your outdoor dining experience!

Our Favorite Camping Food Ideas No Cooking Required

🙌🏼 Be sure to check out all of our favorite no cook camping meals for inspiration on your next camping trip.

Our Top 5 Easy Foods For Camping

Hard-boiled eggs.
Cold Quinoa Salad: With bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black beans. Dress with lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and cilantro.
Charcuterie Board: Cheese, hard salami, olives, pickles, hummus, nuts, crackers.
Wraps (hummus, meat, cheese and lots of veggies).
Cottage Cheese.

Best Camping Recipes For Breakfast

Kickstart your morning in the great outdoors with easy camping breakfasts that are quick to make and packed with energy to fuel your adventures.

8 No Cook Easy Camping Foods For Breakfast

We have a tendency to sway towards super easy breakfasts in the morning.

These no cook camping breakfast ideas are our go to’s most days.

Granola and Yogurt

Mix granola with yogurt and fresh fruits.

Cottage Cheese and Pineapple

Mix cottage cheese with chopped pineapple for a refreshing and protein-packed breakfast

Bagels with Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon

Top bagels with your choice of cream cheese and store bought salmon

Fruit Smoothies

If you have a portable blender, blend up some fresh fruits with yogurt or juice.

Greek Yogurt with Honey and Almonds

Greek yogurt, honey, and a sprinkle of almonds.

Chia Seed Pudding

Chia seeds, almond milk, and a touch of maple syrup, refrigerated overnight.

Fruit Yogurt Parfait

Layered Greek yogurt, granola, and mixed berries.

Cottage Cheese with Peach Slices

Cottage cheese topped with fresh or canned peach slices.

9 (2-3) Ingredient Easy Camping Meals For Breakfast

These ideas for easy camping meals are still focused on minimal cooking and minimals ingredients, however you’ll find a couple of these require some sort of portable stove to heat.

Oatmeal with Fresh Fruit

We prefer steel cut oats but pick any oatmeal and your favorite fruit.

Pancakes

Using a simple mix that requires just water makes for an easy and enjoyable breakfast.

Avocado Toast

Top hearty bread with smashed avocado, salt, and pepper. Add a poached egg if you’re feeling fancy.

Almond Butter and Banana Toast

Toasted bread with almond butter and sliced banana.

Egg in Bell Pepper Ring

Sliced bell pepper rings on a skillet, crack an egg into each ring, and cook.

Toast with Ricotta and Berries

Toasted bread, ricotta cheese, and fresh berries on top.

Scrambled Eggs with Spinach:

Eggs, a splash of milk, and a handful of spinach scrambled together.

Oatmeal with Banana and Peanut Butter:

Cooked oatmeal, sliced banana, and a dollop of peanut butter.

Tomato Basil Mozzarella Toast:

Toasted bread, sliced tomato, and mozzarella, with fresh basil leaves.

9 Additional Breakfast Camping Food Ideas With Recipes

breakfast

Breakfast Skillet Delight

A combination of bacon, egg, potato, and cheddar cheese served crispy from a skillet. Perfect for those chilly mornings.

breakfast
Photo Credit: Love Bakes Good Cakes

Omelets in a Bag

Sooo easy. Pre-make these at home with your favorite ingredients and submerge the bag in boiling water.

breakfast
Photo Credit: The Spicy Apron

French Toast

 Dip slices of bread in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Cook on a griddle until golden brown on both sides. Serve with syrup or powdered sugar.

breakfast
Crockpot Camping Overnight Oats
Photo Credit: Crockpot.com

Overnight Oats

Overnight oatmeal is a convenient and hearty option for camping trips and can be easily customized with different toppings and flavors.

breakfast
Photo Credit: Girl Carnivore

Make Ahead Campfire Breakfast Burritos:

Cook scrambled eggs and your choice of breakfast meat (bacon, sausage, etc.) on a skillet. Place on a tortilla, add cheese, wrap it up, and warm over the campfire.

breakfast
Photo Credit: Backpacker

Hashbrowns and Eggs

Using good ole Idahoan dehydrated hashbrowns makes this a super easy camping meal. Just add water to the hashbrowns and fry these babies up. Top your potatoes with cheese and you’ll have yourself a restaurant style breakfast while camping

breakfast
Photo Credit: Haute and Healthy

Make Ahead Pumpkin Breakfast Cookies

 Loaded with oats, seeds, and pumpkin these cookies are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast.

breakfast
Photo Credit: Camp Kitchen

Easy Campfire Cinnamon Rolls

Sometimes you just need a good ole cinnamon roll for breakfast. These ready to bake cinnamon rolls use premade dough making these quick and easy in your cast iron dutch oven.

If you’re up for it, why not try making cinnamon rolls from scratch? We’ve got our favorite recipe right here for you to enjoy!

breakfast
Photo Credit: Modern Honey

Sausage and Potato Foil Packet

Whipping up a Sausage and Potato Foil Packet for breakfast is a deliciously simple way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

Easy Camping Food Ideas For Lunch

Enjoy hassle-free midday meals with easy camping lunches that are both delicious and quick to prepare, perfect for refueling between adventures.

8 No Cook Easy Camping Food Ideas For Lunch

Tuna Salad

Canned or packaged tuna mixed with mayonnaise, served on crackers or bread.

Peanut Butter & Honey Sandwich

Peanut butter and honey on your choice of bread.

Avocado Chicken Wrap

Canned chicken and sliced avocado wrapped in a tortilla.

Hummus and Deli Meat Lunch Wrap

Spread hummus, your favorite deli meat and cheese on a tortilaa and top with sprouts.

Rice Cake with Avocado and Smoked Salmon

Top a rice cake with mashed avocado, a slice of smoked salmon, and a sprinkle of dill and lemon juice for a quick, no-cook meal.

Chickpea Salad

Combine canned chickpeas, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a hearty, refreshing salad.

Salami and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups

Salami slices spread with cream cheese and rolled up.

Chicken Salad

We like to use canned chicken mixed with may salt and pepper and diced up walnuts, apples and grapes. Serve this on on bread or lettuce

2-3 Ingredient Easy Camping Lunch Ideas

Here are simple 2-3 ingredient lunch ideas perfect for camping, focusing on ease of preparation and minimal ingredients:

Quesadillas

Easy to make over a camp stove with cheese, and pre-chopped veggies.

Egg and Avocado Sandwich

Sliced hard-boiled eggs and avocado on bread.

Grilled Cheese

A comfort food classic, easily made in a pan over the camp stove.

Bean and Cheese Burritos

Refried beans and shredded cheese wrapped in a tortilla.

Instant Ramen Upgrade

Cook instant ramen in a pot of boiling water over the campfire. Add in fresh vegetables and pre-cooked meat to elevate this simple meal.

Turkey and Swiss Roll-Ups

Sliced turkey and Swiss cheese rolled up with lettuce and cream cheese

Pita Bread and Hummus

Pita bread served with hummus for dipping.

Hot Dogs or Sausages

Grilled over the campfire, we like to add all the fixing like sauerkraut, relish, and cream cheese

Rice and Black Beans

Pre-cooked rice mixed with canned black beans, seasoned with a pinch of salt or taco seasoning. If you’d like you can roll this up in a tortilla or top it with an egg.

Egg Salad Sandwiches

Make egg salad in advance and bring it along in your cooler. Serve on fresh bread or rolls for a quick, no-cook lunch.

5 Additional Easy Camping Recipes For Lunch

lunch
Photo Credit: Peppers And Pennies

Campfire Nachos

Campfire nachos are a deliciously simple and customizable camping favorite, layering chips, cheese, meat, and your choice of toppings, all cooked to melty perfection over an open fire.

Lunch
Photo Credit: Kathleen Flinn

Lentil Soup

Swapping dried lentils for canned lentils can significantly cut down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, offering a convenient and quick alternative for a hearty, warming meal.

Lunch
Photo Credit: Lets Camp More

Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli favorite, featuring layers of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Russian dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread to create a melt-in-your-mouth combination of flavors and textures.

Lunch
Photo Credit: Beyond The Tent

Pie Iron Pizza Calzone

The Pie Iron Pizza Calzone is a campfire treat, stuffing pizza fillings into dough, then crisped in a pie iron over the fire for a gooey, crunchy snack.

Lunch

Easy Pasta Salad

Combining cooked pasta with a mix of fresh vegetables, cheese, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics and car camping, offering a refreshing, no-fuss meal.

Easy Dinner Camping Recipes

Easy dinner camping recipes, like foil packet meals and one-pot dishes, offer us delicious, fuss-free options for enjoying hearty meals with minimal cleanup.

The best thing about these easy camping foods is that they require minimal cleanup, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy some campfire games after eating.

🔥 Don’t Miss 🔥

Are you an overlander looking for the best ideas for a camp kitchen setup? Be sure to check out our overlanding cooking article to get you started.

Easy Camping Meal Ideas For Dinner (2-3 Ingredients)

  1. Campfire Tacos: Tortillas, pre-cooked meat or beans, cheese, and any available fresh toppings.
  2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A timeless comfort food, with buttery bread and gooey, melted cheese for a simple meal.
  3. Pasta with Pesto: Cook your pasta then toss it with homemade or store-bought basil pesto sauce.
  4. Bean and Rice Burritos: Warm up pre-cooked rice pouches, mix with canned beans, spoon onto tortillas, add your favorite toppings, roll up, and enjoy.
  5. Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups: Wrap ham and cheese inside a tortilla and melt over campfire
  6. Campfire Chili: Simply heat the canned chili over the campfire and top with cheese and onions
  7. Couscous with Chickpeas: Boil water or broth, add couscous, and let it sit covered until it’s fluffy. Sauté chickpeas with spices, then mix them into the couscous, adding veggies if you like, for an easy, tasty dish.

9 Additional Camping Food Ideas For Dinner With Recipes

Dinner
Photo Credit: Lodge

Campfire Pita Pizzas

Spread tomato sauce on pita breads. Top with cheese, bell peppers, and olives. Grill until crispy.

DINNER

Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese

This ooey and gooey campfire mac has all the flavors of a comfort food

DINNER
Photo Credit: Champagne-Tastes

Campfire Fish Tacos

These easy campfire fish tacos are made with grilled fish, avocado, red onion, sauerkraut, tomatoes, and lime yogurt sauce!

Dinner
Photo Credit: REI

Campfire Tofu Stir Fry:

Fried tofu, sautéed veggies and hearty rice all in one skillet. This dish is the epitome of a one-pot wonder.

Dinner
Photo Credit: No 2 Pencil

One Pot Chicken Burrito Bowl

A simple, flavorful dish, layering seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and vegetables in one pot for an easy, customizable meal packed with all your favorite burrito fillings.

Dinner
Photo Credit: Camping For Foodies

Dutch Oven Curry

Simmer canned coconut milk with curry paste. Add veggies like bell peppers, bamboo shoots, and zucchini. Add pre-cooked chicken or tofu. Serve with pre-cooked rice packets.

Dinner
Photo Credit: Chelseas Messy Apron

Foil Packet Italian Sausage And Veggie

Foil Packet Italian Sausage and Veggies combines sliced Italian sausage and your choice of vegetables, seasoned and sealed in foil, then cooked over a campfire for a flavorful, no-mess meal.

Dinner

One Pot Puttanesca

One Pot Puttanesca is one of our favorite delicious camping foods that combines tomatoes, olives, capers, and garlic in a single pot, creating a bold, aromatic sauce that clings to pasta for a simple yet intensely flavorful meal.

Dinner
Photo Credit: Recipes From A Pantry

Shrimp and Veggie Foil Packets

Shrimp and Veggie Foil Packets are a light and healthy meal option, where shrimp and a variety of vegetables are seasoned, wrapped in foil, and cooked over a grill or campfire, resulting in a steamy, flavorful packet full of tender shrimp and crisp veggies.

Easy Camping Sides

Whip up simple and tasty camping side dishes that complement any meal, adding flavor without the extra fuss.

  • Instant potatoes
  • Prepackaged salad kits
  • Canned beans (just heat and season)
  • Corn on the cob (wrap in foil and grill)
  • Pre-cut veggies with dip
  • Packaged rice mixes (quick and easy to cook)
  • Pre-cooked quinoa packets
  • Bean salads in cans or jars
  • Pre-packed noodle salads (rice or soba noodles)

Easy Camping Desserts

Here’s a list of simple camping desserts that are easy to prepare and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

  • S’mores (the classic campfire treat)
  • Banana boats (bananas stuffed with chocolate and marshmallows, wrapped in foil, and heated over the fire)
  • Instant pudding cups
  • Fruit skewers (can be enjoyed fresh or grilled over the campfire)
  • Pre-made rice crispy treats
  • Pre-made cookies or brownies
  • Apple slices with caramel dip

Easy Camping Snacks

Easy camping snacks, like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit, offer quick, nutritious energy boosts without the fuss, perfect for on-the-go adventurers.

  • Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
  • Energy Bars: Homemade or store-bought, they’re perfect for a quick boost.
  • Fresh Fruits: Apples, bananas, and oranges are our go-tos.
  • Nut Butter Packs: Great for a quick protein fix.
  • Popcorn: Popped over the campfire for a cozy snack.
  • Cheese Sticks: For a dose of calcium and protein.
  • Veggie Sticks: With hummus or dip.
  • Hard-Boiled Eggs: Made in advance and stored in the cooler.
  • Yogurt: Paired with granola or fruit.
  • Jerky: Beef or turkey for a savory snack.
  • Crackers and Cheese: A simple and satisfying option.
  • Roasted Nuts: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts, seasoned and roasted.
  • Fruit Leather: Homemade or store-bought for a sweet treat.
  • Granola Bars: Packed with oats, nuts, and honey.
  • Chocolate: Because a little indulgence is always necessary.

Easy Camping Meals for Kids

These easy camping meals for kids meals not only satisfy young appetites but also introduce them to the joy of outdoor cooking with family-friendly favorites.

  • DIY Pizza Pockets: Using bread, tomato sauce, cheese, and their favorite toppings, kids can make their own pizza pockets over the campfire.
  • Campfire Hot Dogs: Let them roast their hot dogs over the fire for a fun and interactive meal.
  • Foil Packet Nachos: Kids love layering chips, cheese, and beans in foil packets to melt over the campfire.
  • Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches: A classic and easy option for picky eaters.
  • Mac and Cheese Cups: Pre-made at home and reheated at the campsite for a quick and comforting meal.
  • Fruit and Marshmallow Skewers: Let them create their own dessert skewers to roast over the fire.
  • Mini Pancake Stacks: With a variety of toppings like chocolate chips and strawberries for them to customize their stack.
  • Cheese Quesadillas: Simple and quick to make, with the option to add in chicken or veggies.
  • Vegetable Sticks with Dip: A healthy snack option that’s easy to prepare and pack.
  • Trail Mix: Let them mix their own combination of nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate for a personalized snack.

3 Day Camping Meal Plan

With our 3-day camping meal plan, we’re keeping it simple yet satisfying with sandwiches, foil packet dinners, and dutch oven recipes.

It’s all about enjoying delicious meals with minimal prep and cleanup, so we can focus on soaking in the great outdoors.

FAQ ABOUT EASY CAMPING FOODS

How to Keep Food Fresh While Camping?

Use a high-quality cooler and freeze items before placing them inside. Organize with ice packs and consume perishables early in the trip.

Best Ways to Cook Food at a Campsite?

Utilize a mix of cooking methods: portable gas stoves for quick meals, a grill for meats and veggies, and a campfire for boiling water and simmering dishes.

How to Plan Meals for a Camping Trip?

Start by planning each meal and snack. Prep as much as you can at home, and pack ingredients in meal-specific bags or containers. Consider the cooking tools you’ll have available and choose recipes accordingly.

Wrapping Up Simple Camping food

We hope our guide on easy camping foods helps you enjoy your adventures without the hassle of complicated meals.

We’ve focused on recipes that require minimal ingredients and preparation time, perfect for life on the road. From one-pan dishes to no-cook meals, we aim to make your culinary experience as effortless as possible.

Remember, the goal is to spend less time cooking and more time exploring. Let’s make your journey deliciously simple

outside nomad jill wheeler author bio
Written by Jill Wheeler

Hi there! I’m Jill, a full-time travel blogger and passionate adventurer. I left the 9-to-5 grind to embrace the nomadic travel lifestyle and have never looked back. I love immersing myself in diverse cultures, and through my stories, photos, and tips, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own adventures. When I’m not exploring the world, you’ll find me skiing, mountain biking, or tasting the culture of breathtaking locations.

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