Imagine this: You’re sitting by the campfire, the smell of pine in the air, and your stomach rumbles. You brought all your favorite camping foods, but how will you cook them perfectly for everyone? Many campers face this exact problem. Finding the best camping griddle can feel like a quest with so many brands and features to sort through. You want something that cooks evenly, is easy to clean, and won’t weigh down your gear, but the choices are overwhelming.
That’s where we come in! This post is your secret weapon to finding the ideal camping griddle. We’ll break down what really matters, helping you avoid common mistakes and discover the griddle that will make your outdoor meals amazing. Get ready to learn how to cook up flapjacks, burgers, and more like a pro, no matter where your adventures take you.
So, let’s dive in and find the perfect partner for your next wilderness culinary adventure!
Our Top 5 Camping Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Camping Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Faceplate
Rating: 9.1/10
The Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle is your ultimate companion for delicious outdoor cooking. Its sleek black powder-coated steel design, accented with a stainless steel faceplate, looks great anywhere. This griddle is built tough for all your adventures, from camping trips to backyard BBQs.
What We Like:
- It’s super portable and compact, making it easy to take camping or tailgating.
- You can cook all sorts of food on it, like burgers, pancakes, and veggies.
- It has a surprising amount of cooking space, fitting up to 14 burgers.
- Two burners let you cook different foods at different temperatures at the same time.
- The grease management system makes cleanup quick and mess-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, it might not be enough for very large gatherings.
- The initial setup might require a little learning for some users.
This Blackstone griddle is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to enjoy great food outdoors. Its portability and versatility make it a winner for any occasion.
2. Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface – Flat & Ribbed Sides – Use on Stove
Rating: 9.3/10
The Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle is a cooking tool that can do a lot. It’s made of strong cast iron and is seasoned, so it’s ready to use right away. You can use it on both sides, one for grilling and one for griddling. It works on your stove, outside on a grill, or even over a campfire.
What We Like:
- It’s safe to use because it’s made without harmful chemicals like PFOA and PTFE.
- It’s big enough to cook for a family, covering two burners on your stove.
- You can flip it over to grill meats or make pancakes and eggs.
- It works on any kind of stove, including induction, and can also go in the oven, on a grill, or in a campfire.
- It’s made in the USA by a family that’s been making cookware since 1896, so it’s built to last.
- The cast iron heats up evenly and stays hot, making your food cook better.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so it might be a little hard to move around.
- It needs to be seasoned and cared for properly to prevent rust.
This Lodge grill/griddle is a really useful addition to any kitchen. It’s a sturdy, versatile piece of cookware that will help you make many delicious meals.
3. Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle with Cover
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready for delicious outdoor meals with the Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle. This griddle is your new best friend for camping, tailgating, or just cooking in your backyard. It heats up fast and gives you plenty of space to cook all your favorite foods. Plus, it comes with a cover to keep it protected.
What We Like:
- It’s portable and easy to store, making it great for adventures.
- The included PVC cover keeps your griddle safe from the weather.
- You get a big 319 square inch cooking surface, enough for about 15 burgers at once.
- Three burners let you control the heat for different foods, and they add up to 25,500 BTUs for quick cooking.
- Starting it is simple with the push-button igniter.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable grease cup and detachable griddle top.
What Could Be Improved:
- A 20 lb. LP tank is needed but not included, so you have to buy that separately.
This Royal Gourmet griddle offers a fantastic way to enjoy cooking outside with its user-friendly design and powerful performance. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and portable cooking solution.
4. Coghlan’s Camp Griddle
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your outdoor cooking game with the Coghlan’s Camp Griddle. This 17.5 x 10-inch griddle is made for camping. It fits right over most two-burner camp stoves. The best part? It has a PFAS-free ceramic non-stick coating. This makes cooking and cleaning super easy. You can cook a whole breakfast at once, like eggs, bacon, and pancakes. It’s built tough for all your adventures.
What We Like:
- The non-stick ceramic surface means food slides right off. Cleanup is a breeze!
- It’s designed to fit perfectly on most two-burner camp stoves.
- Heavy-gauge aluminum heats up fast and cooks food evenly. No more burnt spots!
- It’s durable and dependable for all your outdoor cooking needs.
- It’s strong but lightweight, so it’s easy to pack and carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it fits most stoves, some users might find it slightly large for very compact stoves.
- The non-stick coating, while great, may require careful cleaning to maintain its longevity.
This griddle makes outdoor cooking simple and enjoyable. It’s a must-have for any camper who loves a good meal in the great outdoors.
5. Chefman XL Electric Griddle with Removable Temperature Control
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to cook like a pro with the Chefman XL Electric Griddle! This griddle is a game-changer for anyone who loves to cook for a crowd or just wants more cooking space. Its huge 10×20 inch surface means you can fry up a whole batch of pancakes or grill several burgers at once. You can easily control the heat from a low 200°F to a hot 420°F, perfect for anything from keeping food warm to searing steaks. Plus, it helps you cook healthier meals because the non-stick surface means you need less oil, and a handy drip tray catches extra grease.
What We Like:
- The extra-large 10×20 inch cooking surface is fantastic for feeding families or guests.
- Adjustable temperature control (200-420°F) makes it super versatile for different foods.
- The non-stick surface and drip tray help you make healthier meals with less oil.
- Cleaning is a breeze since the griddle is fully immersible and dishwasher safe (just remember to remove the temperature control first!).
- It’s a convenient way to add extra cooking space to your kitchen, especially for holidays or big dinners.
- It comes with advanced safety features and a 1-year warranty from Chefman for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 10×20 inch size is great for cooking, it does take up a good amount of counter space when in use.
- It might be a bit bulky for very small kitchens or for storage in tight spaces.
This Chefman griddle is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, making meal prep easier and more enjoyable. It’s a reliable tool for creating delicious meals for any occasion.
Your Guide to the Perfect Camping Griddle
Camping trips are always better with delicious food. A camping griddle can help you cook up breakfast, lunch, and dinner outdoors. This guide will help you choose the best griddle for your adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out a camping griddle, think about these important things:
- Size: How many people will you be cooking for? Griddles come in different sizes. A bigger griddle is great for families or groups. A smaller one is good for solo campers or couples.
- Portability: You need to carry your griddle to your campsite. Look for griddles that are lightweight and have handles or a carrying case. Some griddles fold up neatly.
- Heat Control: Good heat control means you can cook different foods evenly. Some griddles have adjustable heat settings. This helps prevent burning your pancakes or undercooking your burgers.
- Ease of Cleaning: After a yummy meal, cleaning up is important. Non-stick surfaces make cleaning much easier. Removable parts can also be helpful for washing.
- Fuel Source: Most camping griddles use propane. Some might use charcoal or even electricity. Propane is common and easy to find. Make sure you have the right fuel for your griddle.
2. Important Materials
The materials a griddle is made from affect how well it cooks and how long it lasts.
- Cast Iron: This is a classic choice. Cast iron heats up evenly and holds heat well. It’s super durable. However, it can be heavy and needs to be seasoned and cared for to prevent rust.
- Steel: Steel griddles are lighter than cast iron. They heat up quickly. Stainless steel is a good option because it won’t rust easily and is easy to clean.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is very lightweight. It heats up fast. Griddles with non-stick coatings often use aluminum.
- Non-Stick Coatings: Many griddles have non-stick surfaces. This makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. Make sure the coating is durable so it doesn’t scratch off easily.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all griddles are made the same. Here’s what makes a griddle great or not so great:
- Heat Distribution: A good griddle spreads heat evenly across the entire surface. This means your food cooks at the same rate everywhere. Poor heat distribution can lead to hot spots and cold spots.
- Durability: A quality griddle will last for many camping trips. Strong materials and good construction mean it won’t break or warp easily.
- Stability: The griddle needs to sit firmly on its stand or surface. A wobbly griddle can be dangerous and make cooking difficult.
- Wind Resistance: Griddles that have wind guards or a design that shields the flame from wind will cook more consistently.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your griddle. This will help you make the right choice.
- Campground Cooking: Griddles are perfect for cooking breakfast classics like pancakes and bacon. They’re also great for searing burgers, cooking fajitas, or even stir-frying vegetables.
- Tailgating and Picnics: A portable griddle is fantastic for cooking at sporting events or outdoor gatherings.
- Backyard Grilling Alternative: If you don’t have a full grill, a camping griddle can be a fun way to enjoy outdoor cooking in your backyard.
- Ease of Use: A griddle that lights easily and has simple controls will make your cooking experience much more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best material for a camping griddle?
A: Cast iron is very durable and heats evenly, but it’s heavy. Stainless steel is lighter and resists rust, making it a popular choice. Non-stick coatings on aluminum or steel griddles make cooking and cleaning easy.
Q: How do I clean a camping griddle?
A: For most griddles, wait for them to cool slightly. Use a spatula or scraper to remove food bits. Then, wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge. For stubborn messes, you might need a grill brush. Always dry it thoroughly, especially if it’s cast iron, to prevent rust.
Q: Can I use a camping griddle on any surface?
A: Most camping griddles are designed to be used on a level, stable surface, like a picnic table or a sturdy camping stove. Some griddles come with their own legs for freestanding use.
Q: How much propane do I need for a camping griddle?
A: This depends on the size of your griddle and how long you plan to cook. A standard 1-pound propane cylinder usually lasts for 1-2 hours of continuous cooking on a medium-sized griddle.
Q: Are camping griddles portable?
A: Yes, portability is a key feature. Many camping griddles are designed to be lightweight and fold up or come with carrying cases for easy transport.
Q: What kind of food can I cook on a camping griddle?
A: You can cook almost anything! Pancakes, eggs, bacon, burgers, steaks, chicken, fish, fajitas, stir-fries, and even grilled cheese sandwiches are all great options.
Q: Do I need to season a new camping griddle?
A: If your griddle is made of cast iron or carbon steel, you will likely need to season it before the first use and periodically afterward. This creates a natural non-stick surface and protects it from rust. Griddles with factory non-stick coatings usually don’t need seasoning.
Q: How does wind affect cooking on a griddle?
A: Wind can blow the heat away from the cooking surface, making it harder to maintain a consistent temperature. This can lead to longer cooking times and unevenly cooked food. Griddles with wind guards help with this problem.
Q: What is the difference between a griddle and a grill?
A: A grill has grates that allow heat to come up and cook food. This gives food those nice grill marks. A griddle is a flat, solid surface. Food cooks directly on this surface, which is great for smaller items like eggs or pancakes that might fall through grill grates.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good camping griddle?
A: Prices can vary widely. Basic, smaller griddles might cost $30-$50. Mid-range griddles with more features can range from $60-$150. High-end, larger, or cast iron griddles can cost $200 or more.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.