One of the important parts of camping is the cooking, and having one of the best camping grills along for the trip can make all the difference. When it comes to camping grills, there are a variety of options to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits.
» You might also like these 6 Best Portable Gas Grills.
We have researched and tested several camping grills to identify the best options for your next outdoor gathering. We have considered factors such as portability, ease of use, and cooking performance to provide you with the most comprehensive and unbiased recommendations.
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Best Camping Grills
Whether you prefer charcoal or propane, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs. From compact and portable to larger models with plenty of cooking space, these grills are sure to make your next camping trip a success.
Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill
If you’re in the market for a portable camping grill, the Royal Gourmet PD1301S is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Portable and easy to carry
- Fast heating with three separately controlled burners
- Spacious cooking surface
Cons
- Uneven heat distribution on the griddle bed
- Regulator may stop working after a few uses
- Heavy and awkward to store in small spaces
This tabletop grill is perfect for small outdoor cooking events, like camping and tailgating, fueled by a 20 lb. propane tank (not included) with hose and regulator (included). With sturdy feet for enhanced stability, it’s easy to set up and start cooking in no time. The integrated piezo ignitor provides instant ignition featuring by the simple push of a button.
The Royal Gourmet PD1301S offers an overall of 25,500 BTU cooking power, thanks to three separately controlled burners. The 312 sq. in. cooking surface is spacious enough to cook for a small group of people. The slide-out grease cup collects oil residue while cooking, and is easy to clean up after use. The griddle top is also detachable for washing.
However, the griddle bed is uneven in its heat distribution, with the middle 1/3 strip of the bed being the hottest. Additionally, the regulator may stop working after a few uses. Finally, the grill is a little heavy and awkward to store in closely contained RV cupboards, as the tabletop grill is 25″D x 16.3″W x 7.9″H.
Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
If you’re looking for a portable grill for camping or outdoor cooking, the Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is a great option.
Pros
- The high lid is perfect for grilling large pieces of meat like thicker steaks and ribs.
- With 207 sq.in of total cooking area, there’s plenty of space for grilling.
- The two main burners with a total of 15,000 BTUs deliver fast and even heat for a great grilling experience.
Cons
- The distance between the grates is a little large, making it easy for narrow food like asparagus to fall through.
- Some assembly is required, but it comes mostly complete.
- The advertising can be considered a bit misleading.
This grill is designed for fast and even cooking, with stainless steel cooking grates and two burners. The built-in center mounted thermometer monitors the temperature inside the grill, so you can cook your food to perfection.
The high lid is a great feature for cooking large pieces of meat like thicker steaks and ribs. With a total cooking area of 207 sq.in, there’s plenty of space for grilling. The two main burners with a total of 15,000 BTUs deliver fast and even heat for a great grilling experience.
One downside is that the distance between the grates is a little large, making it easy for narrow food like asparagus to fall through. Some assembly is required, but it comes mostly complete. Additionally, the advertising can be considered a bit misleading.
Pit Boss Grills 75275 Stainless Steel Two-Burner Portable Grill
If you’re looking for a portable camping grill, the Pit Boss 200P might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The grill offers 275 sq. inches of cooking surface and 20,000 BTU, which is more than enough for most camping trips.
- The 430 stainless steel body and lid construction and 304 stainless steel grid construction make it durable and long-lasting.
- The portable design features folding legs and a latching hood for easy carrying.
Cons
- The grill tends to run hot, so you might need to adjust the propane flow to compensate.
- Some users have reported issues with the heat deflectors being cheap and flimsy.
- The bolts that hold on the legs can work themselves loose, which can be a hassle.
The Pit Boss 200P is a great option for those who want a portable camping grill that can still deliver a lot of power. It’s durable and well-built, so you can expect it to last for many camping trips to come.
The grill is easy to carry, thanks to its folding legs and latching hood, and it offers plenty of cooking space for a small grill. The 430 stainless steel body and lid construction and 304 stainless steel grid construction make it durable and long-lasting, so you can use it for many years to come.
One downside is that the grill tends to run hot, so you might need to adjust the propane flow to compensate. Some users have also reported issues with the heat deflectors being cheap and flimsy, so you might need to be careful when using them.
Monument Grills Portable Propane Gas Grill
If you’re looking for a portable and efficient camping grill, Monument Grills Portable Propane Gas Grill is the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- With two main stainless-steel burners, it delivers fast and even heat, making your grilling experience great.
- The clear view lid is made of high heat tested, tempered glass that allows you to keep an eye on what you’re cooking without letting heat out by opening the lid.
- With a total cooking area of 200 sq. in, it offers plenty of grilling space for camping or outdoor cooking.
Cons
- The grates are not as durable as expected.
- The propane tank is not included.
- The heat is not great with the lid up.
This grill is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around and store. It’s also versatile, as it includes a 40-inch hose to connect to a 20lb Propane Tank (tank not included) and can also connect to a 1lb tank with the purchase of the 1lb tank adapter 99000 (sold separately). It’s easy to assemble and clean, and the removable drip tray and stainless-steel body make cleaning after a barbecue a breeze.
The double-sided enamelled cast iron grates are designed for even cooking, using the front of the grates to produce beautiful burn marks for added flavor and the back to increase the grilling contact area. The size of the grill is 18.8″ L x 18.1″ H x 13.5″ W inches, and it weighs 23.8 lbs, making it small in size and easy to put in the trunk of a car, ideal for outdoor cooking, camping, or traveling.
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
If you are looking for a portable camping grill that offers high performance and versatility, you should definitely consider the Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill.
Pros
- With up to 20,000 total BTUs, this grill offers impressive grilling power for its size.
- The improved burner technology allows for more precise temperature control, making it easier to cook a variety of foods to perfection.
- The spacious 285 sq. in. grilling area can accommodate a variety of foods at once, making it perfect for family camping trips or tailgating parties.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the quality of the hinges on the hood, which can break easily.
- The price point is a bit higher than some other portable camping grills on the market.
- The grill requires assembly upon arrival, which may be a bit challenging for some users.
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill is a great choice for anyone who wants a portable, high-performance camping grill that is easy to use and transport. With its quick-fold legs and 2 wheels, this grill is a breeze to set up and take down, making it perfect for camping trips, tailgating events, or backyard cookouts.
One of the standout features of this grill is its impressive grilling power. With up to 20,000 total BTUs, it can deliver a lot of heat quickly and efficiently, allowing you to cook your food to perfection every time. The improved burner technology also makes it easier to control the temperature, so you can cook a variety of foods with precision and ease.
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill also offers a spacious 285 sq. in. grilling area, which can accommodate a variety of foods at once. This makes it perfect for family camping trips or tailgating parties, where you need to cook for a large group of people.
Despite its many advantages, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider before purchasing this grill. Some users have reported issues with the quality of the hinges on the hood, which can break easily. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than some other portable camping grills on the market. Finally, the grill requires assembly upon arrival, which may be a bit challenging for some users.
Camp Chef Deluxe BBQ Grill Box
If you’re looking for a portable grill that is easy to set up and use, then the Camp Chef Deluxe BBQ Grill Box may be just what you need. With its specially designed heat diffuser plates, this grill turns the flame into infrared heat, which instantly vaporizes grease drippings, leaving you with perfectly cooked food every time.
Pros
- Fits all Camp Chef 14 in. cook systems + Sidekick pellet grill attachment
- Specially designed heat diffuser plates turn flame into infrared heat and instantly vaporizes grease drippings, Built-in temperature gauge
- Hinged lid and lid handle for convenient opening and latch locks lid and grates down for transportation, Out of the box ready to cook in seconds
Cons
- Paint may bubble and rust over time
- Not as heavy-duty as some other products
- Handle may come off after a few uses
This grill is compatible with all Camp Chef 14 in. cook systems, as well as the Sidekick pellet grill attachment, making it a versatile addition to your outdoor cooking setup. The heat diffuser plates are specially designed to turn the flame into infrared heat, which instantly vaporizes grease drippings, leaving you with perfectly cooked food every time. The built-in temperature gauge makes it easy to monitor the heat, so you can cook your food to perfection every time.
One downside of this grill is that the paint may bubble and rust over time, especially if it is exposed to the elements. Additionally, it is not as heavy-duty as some other products, which may be a concern for some users. Finally, the handle may come off after a few uses, which can be a safety hazard.
Buying Guide
There are several types of camping grills to choose from, including propane, charcoal, and electric.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the game, we’ve got you covered with the best camping grills on the market.
- Propane grills are a popular choice because they are easy to use and provide consistent heat.
- Charcoal grills, on the other hand, offer a smoky flavor that many people prefer, but they can be more challenging to use.
- Electric grills are a convenient option for those who have access to electricity, but they may not provide the same level of heat as propane or charcoal grills.
When choosing a camping grill, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
- Size – Consider the size of the grill you need based on the number of people you will be cooking for. A small grill may be sufficient for a few people, but a larger grill will be necessary for a larger group.
- Portability – If you plan to take your grill on camping trips, portability is essential. Look for a grill that is lightweight and compact enough to fit in your car or backpack.
- Durability – Camping grills are exposed to the elements and can take a beating. Look for a grill that is made from durable materials, such as stainless steel or cast iron.
- Cooking surface – Consider the size and material of the cooking surface. A larger surface area will allow you to cook more food at once, while a non-stick surface will make clean-up easier.
- Temperature control – Look for a grill with adjustable temperature control, which will allow you to cook a variety of foods at different temperatures.
- Accessories – Some camping grills come with accessories such as side tables, warming racks, and utensil hooks. Consider which accessories are important to you and choose a grill that includes them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a gas camping grill be used with charcoal?
No, a gas camping grill cannot be used with charcoal. Gas camping grills are designed to use propane or butane gas as fuel, while charcoal grills are designed to use charcoal. Attempting to use charcoal in a gas grill can be dangerous and damage the grill.
What are the advantages of a propane camping grill?
Propane camping grills offer several advantages over other types of camping grills. Propane is a clean-burning fuel that produces fewer emissions than charcoal or wood. Propane is also easy to use and provides consistent heat, making it ideal for cooking a variety of foods. Propane camping grills are also portable and easy to transport, making them a popular choice for camping and outdoor activities.
Is a griddle or grill better suited for camping cooking?
It depends on the type of food you plan to cook. Grills are ideal for cooking meats, vegetables, and other foods that require direct heat. Griddles are better suited for cooking foods that require a flat surface, such as pancakes, eggs, and bacon. If you plan to cook a variety of foods while camping, it may be best to bring both a grill and a griddle to meet all your cooking needs.
Are tabletop grills practical for camping?
Yes, tabletop grills are practical for camping. Tabletop grills are small and lightweight, making them easy to transport and set up at a campsite. They are also easy to use and provide consistent heat for cooking a variety of foods. Tabletop grills are a popular choice for camping because they are small enough to fit in a backpack or car trunk, but large enough to cook a meal for several people.
Laura is a passionate home cook and grill enthusiast who has spent years perfecting her culinary skills, with a particular focus on grilling techniques and flavor combinations. Her fascination with the grill, smoke, and the mouthwatering results they produce has led her on an exciting journey to discover the best methods for grilling delicious and unforgettable meals.