I’ll never forget my first real campfire cookout. I brought a flimsy folding grill from a big-box store, a non-stick skillet that warped the moment the coals got serious, and a pair of rubber gloves I thought would handle the heat. They did not. The eggs stuck, the bacon burned, and I singed my wrist reaching for the coffee pot.
That trip sent me down a rabbit hole. Since then, our team has spent more than three years testing campfire cooking equipment across 40-plus nights of car camping, with weekend trips in the Rockies, the Smokies, and the Sierra Nevada. We have cooked over hardwood coals, dried juniper, and mesquite. We have seared steaks, baked bread, simmered chili, and roasted more marshmallows than I care to admit.
If you are shopping for campfire cooking equipment, this guide pulls together everything we have learned. We ranked the 10 best pieces for 2026, from cast iron workhorses to folding grates and adjustable tripods. Whether you are setting up at a developed campground or a backcountry fire ring, you will find the right tool here.
Our Top 3 Campfire Cooking Picks for Car Campers
If you only have time to grab three things before your next trip, these are our top-tested recommendations. Every one of them earned its spot through real weekend use, not spec sheets alone.
Comparing the Best Campfire Cooking Equipment in 2026
Here is a quick side-by-side look at all 10 picks. Use this table to scan the highlights, then jump to the detailed reviews below for our hands-on impressions.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet |
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Umite Chef Dutch Oven |
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Lodge Cast Iron Griddle |
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Adventure Seeka Folding Grill |
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Amazon Basics Grill Grate |
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Stansport Cooking Tripod |
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Coleman Tripod Grill |
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MalloMe Smores Sticks |
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Uno Casa Pie Iron |
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THTYBROS Cookware Kit |
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1. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet – The Timeless Workhorse of Campfire Cooking
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet, PFAS-Free, 10.25 Inches
10.25 inch
Pre-Seasoned
Made in USA
Lifetime Guarantee
Pros
- Best heat retention in its class
- Naturally non-stick seasoning improves with use
- Versatile for stove
- oven
- grill
- campfire
- PFAS-free and non-toxic cooking surface
Cons
- Rough factory seasoning needs a quick re-season
- Heavy at 5 lbs compared to non-stick
My Lodge 10.25-inch skillet has been through more campfire meals than any other pan I own. I picked up the original at a yard sale eight years ago, and after a quick scrub and a light oil rub, it has cooked everything from cornbread on coals to ribeye over a hardwood fire. When our team set out to test campfire cooking equipment, this skillet was the obvious benchmark.
What sets it apart from lighter pans is heat retention. Cast iron stores thermal energy and releases it slowly, which means a hot Lodge will sear a steak or finish a frittata evenly even when the fire fluctuates. It also tolerates the rough conditions that ruin non-stick pans. I have left it directly on grill grates, balanced it on a campfire ring, and used it over a Weber without a hiccup.

The factory seasoning on a new Lodge is functional but slightly rough, so I always recommend a quick at-home seasoning pass before the first camp trip. Once you build up a few layers, the surface turns glossy and food releases cleanly. Over nearly 145,000 reviews, buyers consistently note how the pan improves with age, not the other way around.
Cleanup at camp is straightforward. I scrape out food while the pan is still warm, wipe with a paper towel, and apply a thin coat of oil. Avoid dish soap and never let it air-dry in the rain. Treat it right, and this skillet will outlive your tent.

Heat Retention and Searing Power
Cast iron holds heat so well that I have cooked breakfast after removing the pan from the fire for two full minutes, and the eggs still set. That thermal mass is the secret behind the deep, even sear you get on a Lodge, and it is exactly what most thin aluminum pans cannot replicate over open flame.
If you plan to cook proteins directly over coals, this is the pan to reach for. The downside is weight, and a 5-pound skillet is not ideal for backpacking. For car camping, however, it is unbeatable.
Seasoning and Long-Term Care
The Lodge comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, but you should treat that as a starting point. A 30-minute oven seasoning at home builds a smoother base. At camp, wipe the warm pan with a thin layer of oil after each use, and never soak it in water.
I have revived rusty pans by scrubbing with steel wool, drying thoroughly, and re-seasoning twice. This is part of the ritual, and it is part of why cast iron enthusiasts keep coming back. Done right, this skillet becomes genuinely non-stick over time, far better than any coated pan you can buy.
Versatility Beyond the Campfire
One of the underrated benefits of the Lodge is that it works on every heat source. I use the same pan on my induction stove at home and on the campfire at the lake. That crossover means you do not need separate gear for home and camp, which simplifies packing and storage.
It is oven-safe to 500°F, so you can bake cornbread or finish a pan of frittata over indirect heat. That flexibility is why I rank this skillet first in any campfire cooking equipment roundup.
2. Umite Chef Cast Iron Dutch Oven – 2-in-1 Pot and Skillet Lid
Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Skillet Lid – Pre-Seasoned – Skillet Lid Cooking Pan– PFAS-Free –Umite Chef Cast Iron Skillet Cookware for Bread, Frying, Baking – Dual Handles – Oven, Grill, Campfire & Stovetop Safe – Durable & Non-Toxic, 5QT
5QT Capacity
Pre-Seasoned
Skillet Lid
PFAS-Free
Pros
- Versatile 2-in-1 design saves space
- Excellent heat retention for stews and bread
- PFAS-free with natural vegetable oil seasoning
- Includes heat-resistant silicone sleeves
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- Requires dry storage to prevent rust
If there is one piece that changed how I approach campfire cooking equipment, it is a good dutch oven. The Umite Chef 5-quart model impressed our team because it pairs a deep pot with a flat skillet lid, effectively giving you two pieces of cookware in one. That value is hard to beat.
I tested this oven for two months on weekend trips, baking bread, simmering chili, and braising short ribs. The raised rib lid technology is the standout feature. Instead of condensation dripping back into the pot, steam channels around the lid and bastes the food. Bread came out with a better crust than I expected from a budget dutch oven.

It is also genuinely versatile. When I am cooking for two, I use the lid as a small skillet to sear chicken thighs while the pot simmers beans below. When I have more mouths to feed, the lid comes off and the deep pot handles a full stew for six.
Cleanup at camp requires a little more attention than a stainless pot. Cast iron needs drying and a thin oil coat. I bring a small towel dedicated to the job, and I never store it with the lid seated.

Raised Rib Lid and Cooking Performance
The Umite Chef lid design is a small but meaningful upgrade over a flat lid. The ribs create channels that redirect moisture, which makes a real difference when you are baking bread or roasting a whole chicken. Moisture drips back onto the food in a controlled pattern rather than pooling in the center.
Heat distribution across the base is even enough for steady simmering. I have used it directly on a campfire ring with a metal trivet and gotten consistent results without scorching.
Pre-Seasoning and Maintenance
Out of the box, the Umite Chef comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil and is ready to cook after a quick rinse and dry. The PFAS-free finish is a meaningful feature for anyone concerned about non-stick coatings at high heat.
After cooking, hand-wash with hot water, dry immediately over the flames, and rub with a thin coat of oil. Skipping any of these steps invites rust, especially on humid mornings near the coast.
Size and Weight Trade-Offs
At 13.7 pounds, this is not a backpacking dutch oven. It is a car camping dutch oven, and it excels there. The 5-quart capacity feeds a family of four comfortably, and the dual-handle design with silicone sleeves makes moving it manageable with campfire gloves.
For anyone building out a serious campfire cooking equipment kit, this dutch oven is the centerpiece. It pairs perfectly with a tripod for hanging stews or a grill grate for direct-fire searing.
3. Lodge Cast Iron Griddle – Flat-Top Breakfast Specialist
Lodge Round Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle, PFAS-Free, 10.5 Inches
10.5 inch Round
Pre-Seasoned
PFAS-Free
650°F Rated
Pros
- Huge flat cooking surface for pancakes and eggs
- Pre-seasoned and ready to cook
- Compatible with stove
- oven
- grill
- campfire
- Lifetime warranty from Lodge
Cons
- Heavy at 4.5 lbs
- Round shape takes up pack space
- Requires oil and care to maintain seasoning
Once you start cooking breakfast over a campfire, you realize a skillet has limits. Pancake batter pools in the corners. Eggs slide around. Bacon grease goes everywhere. That is why I added the Lodge 10.5-inch round griddle to my campfire cooking equipment list after just one weekend.
The flat surface is the obvious win. With 10.5 inches of usable area, I have cooked pancakes for four people simultaneously while bacon rendered on the outer edge. It sits beautifully on a grill grate over a medium fire and the even heat distribution means no scorched centers.

The Lodge pre-seasoning is functional, and with a quick at-home oil bake it becomes a near-non-stick surface. I have used it for grilled sandwiches, smashed potatoes, and quesadillas over coals. The 650°F temperature rating means I can really push the heat without worrying about damage.
The round shape is a personal preference. I like it for serving directly at the table, but rectangular griddles pack more efficiently in a car. Choose based on your typical group size and packing setup.

Why a Griddle Beats a Skillet for Groups
For breakfast at a campsite, surface area is everything. A 10.5-inch griddle cooks more food per batch than even a 12-inch skillet because there are no sloped sides to lose pancakes over. If you regularly feed four or more, this is the upgrade that saves time and frustration.
It also handles delicate foods better. Eggs slide off a properly seasoned griddle far easier than off a skillet’s curved walls. Fish, smash burgers, and hash browns all benefit from the flat contact.
Pre-Seasoning and Care
Out of the box, the Lodge griddle is seasoned and ready to cook. After two or three uses, you will notice the surface becoming slicker. Avoid soap, dry thoroughly, and oil lightly after each use.
Storing it in a dry bag or wrapping it in a kitchen towel prevents rust in humid climates. I keep a folded towel between the griddle and any other gear when I pack it.
Heat Source Flexibility
One of the underrated perks is that this griddle works on induction, gas, electric, oven, grill, and campfire. That means I use it year-round, not just on camping trips. It doubles as a stovetop griddle for weeknight dinners when the weather is bad.
For car campers building a versatile kit, this griddle fills a niche a skillet and dutch oven cannot. It is one of the few pieces of campfire cooking equipment I consider essential for groups.
4. Adventure Seeka Folding Campfire Grill – Hybrid Grill and Griddle
Adventure Seeka 24″ Heavy Duty Folding Campfire Grill, Food-Safe Cooking Surface, Compact Folding Design, Portable Grill Grate & Griddle for Campfire Cooking, Australian Designed & Owned
288 sq in
Half Grill Half Griddle
Food-Safe Coating
Folds Flat
Pros
- Half grill and half griddle in one surface
- Food-safe coating allows direct cooking
- Heavy-duty steel supports cast iron weight
- Folds compact with included storage bag
Cons
- 4.76 kg is too heavy for backpacking
- Legs not adjustable in height
The Adventure Seeka grill solved a problem I had not fully appreciated until I used it. Most folding campfire grills have one surface, and I was constantly choosing between a grill for steaks or a flat top for eggs. The Adventure Seeka splits the difference with one half open grate and one half solid griddle.
In our testing, the hybrid design saved time. I cooked burgers on the grate side while pancakes ran on the griddle side. Cleanup was manageable thanks to the food-safe coating, and the 288 square inches of surface handled four portions without crowding.

The folding legs and included storage bag make it surprisingly packable for its size. I store it flat in the back of my SUV along with the rest of my kit, and the wide folding legs give it real stability over an open fire ring.
It is on the heavier side at 4.76 kg, so it is firmly a car camping grill rather than a backpacking one. For car camping, it is the most capable dedicated campfire cooking equipment grill we tested.

Hybrid Cooking Surface in Practice
The hybrid design is more useful than I expected. The open grate side gives you flame-kissed char on steaks, peppers, and corn. The solid griddle side handles eggs, bacon, and pancakes without losing anything through the bars. I have not seen another folding grill pull off this dual-purpose design as cleanly.
The food-safe coating is a real advantage. Direct food contact eliminates the need for a separate pan, which means less to pack and clean. I still bring a cast iron skillet for high-heat searing, but for typical camp dinners, this grill alone handles the meal.
Build Quality and Stability
At 4.76 kg, the Adventure Seeka is built like a tank. I loaded it with my Lodge dutch oven and it held steady. The wide legs distribute weight evenly over coals, and the steel frame shows no wobble even after a year of use.
Stability matters because nothing ruins a meal faster than a grill tipping over. I tested it on uneven stone fire rings and soft dirt, and it stayed put on both.
Cleaning in the Field
The food-safe coating makes cleanup easier than raw steel. I bring a small wire brush and a scraper, and most residue comes off with a quick scrub over the coals. The folding design also means I can tip the griddle to shake out ash before packing.
For car campers who want one tool that handles breakfast through dessert, the Adventure Seeka is the best folding campfire cooking equipment grill we tested.
5. Amazon Basics Portable Camping Grill Grate – Budget-Friendly Foldable
Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Portable Camping Grill Grate for Outdoor Open Flame Cooking, Foldable, Sturdy, 15.9″ x 12.2″, Black
Foldable
Alloy Steel
237 sq in
1.46 kg
Pros
- Heavy-duty welded steel frame
- Lightweight at only 1.46 kg
- Legs angle outward for stability
- Folds compact for storage
Cons
- Not intended for direct food contact
- Short legs place grate near the fire
- No storage bag included
For shoppers on a tight budget, the Amazon Basics portable grill grate is the best value in our roundup. At 1.46 kg and a price well under what most competitors charge, this folding grate is a no-brainer for casual campers who want to elevate their cookware above coals.
I have used this exact grate for nearly four years on family car camping trips. It does not have the polish of a premium grill, but it gets the job done. The welded steel frame holds cast iron dutch ovens without complaint, and the angled legs stay stable on flat ground.

The 237 square inch cooking surface comfortably handles two pans side by side. When the grate is not in use, the legs fold underneath and the whole thing stores flat in a car trunk or bin.
The big caveat is that this grate is designed to hold cookware, not food directly. If you want to cook directly on the bars, look for a food-safe model like the Adventure Seeka.

Build Quality for the Price
At this price point, expectations need to be reasonable. The Amazon Basics grate is not a heavy-duty commercial piece, but it is solidly welded and the powder-coated finish has held up well to repeated heat cycles. After dozens of trips, there is no flaking or rust.
For beginners building their first campfire cooking equipment kit, this is the grate I recommend starting with. You can always upgrade later, but you will not feel pressure to do so.
Stability and Fire Ring Performance
The short legs mean the cooking surface sits close to the fire, which is great for high-heat searing but less ideal for slow simmering. I typically place the grate on a few flat stones to raise it higher when I want lower heat.
On flat ground with the angled legs deployed, the grate stays put. On uneven fire rings, I press the legs into the soil slightly to lock them in.
Who Should Buy This
If you already own cast iron cookware and need a simple platform for it, this grate is everything you need. If you want to cook food directly on the bars, spend more for a food-safe option like the Adventure Seeka.
For the price, this is one of the easiest pieces of campfire cooking equipment to recommend to a friend just getting into car camping.
6. Stansport Heavy-Duty Steel Cooking Tripod – Adjustable Hanging System
Stansport Heavy-Duty Steel Cooking Tripod (15997)
43 inch Tall
Adjustable Chain
5.5 lbs
S-Hooks Included
Pros
- Adjustable height for temperature control
- Includes nickel-plated chain and S-hooks
- Multi-purpose for cooking
- lanterns
- drying gear
- Stable 3-leg design folds for storage
Cons
- Feet can slip on smooth surfaces
- Legs need to be pressed into soft ground
- Coating may bubble after first high-heat use
A tripod is the difference between a fire pit and a functional campfire kitchen. The Stansport heavy-duty tripod has been our team’s go-to for years, and over 6,000 buyers agree it earns its place in any serious campfire cooking equipment setup.
The 43-inch height gives plenty of clearance for hanging a dutch oven or coffee pot. The 25-inch nickel-plated chain with two S-hooks lets you raise and lower cookware in seconds to dial in heat. I have used it to bake bread in a dutch oven, simmer stews, and brew coffee all in the same morning.

The tripod doubles as a utility station. At night I hang a lantern from the S-hook, and during the day I use it to dry wet socks above the heat. That versatility is hard to find in a single piece of campfire cooking equipment.
Stability on uneven ground is the main trade-off. The feet can slip on smooth surfaces, but pressing them into soft soil locks the tripod in place. With the chain loaded, even on flat stone, the tripod is sturdy.

Why a Tripod Belongs in Every Kit
Most campers start with a grill grate and call it done, then realize a tripod opens up dutch oven cooking and coffee brewing. A tripod lets you suspend a pot at the exact height where radiant heat and flame combine for ideal cooking conditions.
If you bake bread at camp, simmer stews, or want to use a percolator, this tripod is non-negotiable. It is also the most affordable piece of dedicated dutch oven gear in our list.
Adjustable Chain and Heat Control
The chain and S-hook system lets you raise your pot to avoid flare-ups or lower it for a hard sear. This is real-time heat control that you cannot replicate with a fixed-height grill grate.
I have also used the chain to hang a roasting fork for indirect cooking. The setup works for almost any pot with a bail handle.
Multi-Purpose Function
Beyond cooking, the tripod serves as a lantern hanger and gear dryer. On rainy mornings I have draped wet gloves and socks over the chain to dry by the fire. At night I hang a LED lantern or pot of water for tea.
For under $40, this tripod is one of the best-value pieces of campfire cooking equipment on the market. It pairs perfectly with the Umite Chef dutch oven for a complete hanging cook setup.
7. Coleman Tripod Campfire Grill – Adjustable 17-Inch Grate
Coleman Tripod Campfire Grill & Lantern Hanger, Grill Grate with Adjustable Height for Cooking Over Fire, Steel Firepit Cooking Rack
17 inch Grate
Adjustable Height
Shock-Cord Legs
6.7 lbs
Pros
- Adjustable cooking height over fire
- 17-inch grate fits pans and skillets
- Shock-corded legs collapse for transport
- Doubles as lantern hanger
Cons
- Shock cords can melt under high heat
- Grate can swing when flipping food
- No storage bag included
The Coleman tripod grill is the hybrid answer if you want both a hanging grate and a tripod in one piece. Unlike the Stansport tripod that hangs pots, this model holds a 17-inch round grate at adjustable heights.
I tested it on a beach weekend with hot hardwood coals and it performed admirably. The grate easily held my Lodge skillet for searing burgers, and the adjustable height let me move from sear to gentle warming without removing the pan from the fire.

At 6.7 pounds, it is heavier than a folding grill grate but lighter than the Adventure Seeka. The shock-corded legs make setup fast, and the whole unit collapses for transport. It also doubles as a lantern hanger at night.
The main drawback I noticed was that the grate can swing slightly when flipping heavy food. Once I learned to stabilize with one hand, it was a non-issue. Some users report the shock cords degrading with high heat, so I keep mine away from direct flame contact.

Tripod Stability and Setup
The galvanized steel legs are sturdy once deployed, and the shock cords keep them in place. Setup takes about 90 seconds from bag to fire. I have used this tripod on sand, gravel, and packed dirt with equal success.
On smooth surfaces like a concrete fire ring, the feet can slip. A quick fix is to wedge small stones around each foot for added grip.
Adjustable Heat Control
Like any tripod, the real advantage is variable height. I have cooked everything from sizzling bacon down low to gentle warming at full extension. The chain and hook system lets you adjust in seconds.
For typical campfire cooking equipment needs, this tripod grill covers most meals. It does not replace a dutch oven tripod for hanging pots, but it complements one nicely.
Who This Tripod Is Best For
If you want a single piece of gear that combines tripod stability with a usable cooking grate, this Coleman is a smart pick. It is not as heavy-duty as the Adventure Seeka and not as simple as the Stansport, but it bridges both jobs.
For couples and small families, this is one of the most versatile pieces of campfire cooking equipment we reviewed.
8. MalloMe Smores Sticks 5-Pack – Safe Family Roasting
MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long – Marshmallow Roasting Sticks Smores Kit – Smore Skewers Hot Dog Fork Campfire Cooking Equipment, Camping Essentials S’mores Gear Outdoor Accessories 32″ 5 Pack
32 inch Length
5-Pack
Stainless Steel
Telescopic
Pros
- 32-inch length keeps hands safe from fire
- 5-pack with color-coded handles for the family
- Telescopic design for compact storage
- Works for marshmallows
- hot dogs
- vegetables
Cons
- Telescopic design can feel flimsy
- Marshmallow residue can stick
- Canvas pouch may degrade with heat
No campfire cooking equipment roundup is complete without roasting sticks, and the MalloMe 5-pack is the gold standard for families. With over 14,000 reviews and a top ranking in barbecue forks, this set is what I bring when camping with kids or friends who have never cooked over a fire.
The 32-inch length is the right number. Shorter sticks feel unsafe, longer sticks are unwieldy. At 32 inches, even my youngest niece can toast a marshmallow without getting close to the flames.

The color-coded handles are a thoughtful touch. Each family member picks a color and there is no fighting over whose fork is whose. The telescopic design collapses down to about 12 inches for storage, and the included pouch keeps everything organized.
The 18/8 304 stainless steel does not rust after washing, which is rare at this price. Two-prong design prevents marshmallows from spinning while toasting, a small detail that makes a real difference.

Safety and Family Use
Campfire burns on children are a real risk, and a long roasting stick is the simplest safety upgrade you can make. The MalloMe sticks keep small hands well away from the flames while still allowing them to participate in the cooking.
For adults, the longer length also lets you reach the hottest coals for a faster toast, or pull back to the edge of the fire for slower browning.
Build Quality and Materials
The stainless steel fork tips are durable and clean up well. The wooden handles stay cool to the touch, even when the tip is in the fire. The telescopic mechanism is the weakest point, but for under $15 for a 5-pack, the quality is hard to beat.
After two seasons of use, my set still works fine, though one fork has a slightly looser telescoping action than the others. None have broken.
Beyond Marshmallows
These sticks are not just for s’mores. I have roasted hot dogs, small vegetables, and even thin sausage links on them. The two-prong design holds most small foods securely.
If you are building a family-friendly campfire cooking equipment kit, these sticks belong in it. They are inexpensive, safe, and universally enjoyed.
9. Uno Casa Cast Iron Pie Iron – Toasted Sandwiches and Hobo Pies
Uno Casa – Pie Irons Cast Iron Sandwich Maker – Mountain Japanese Sandwich Maker with Recipe Book – Durable Campfire Cooking Equipment for Toasted Pies, and More (1, Double Pie Iron – XL)
XL Double Size
Pre-Seasoned
Removable Handles
Recipe Book
Pros
- XL size fits more filling than typical pie irons
- Pre-seasoned cast iron with non-stick surface
- Two removable handles for easier storage
- Includes recipe e-Book for beginners
Cons
- 5.7 lbs is heavy for backpacking
- Grill lines make spatula cleanup tricky
- Some users report sticking issues
Of all the pieces in our campfire cooking equipment testing, the pie iron was the most fun surprise. The Uno Casa XL model makes toasted sandwiches and hobo pies over the fire, and it has become a family favorite on weekend car camping trips.
I tested this pie iron over four campouts, making everything from pizza pockets to apple pie desserts. The XL double size means each half holds more filling than typical single-size pie irons, so you can actually fit a real sandwich inside without squeezing.

The pre-seasoned cast iron surface is genuinely non-stick once you build up a few layers. I buttered the outside of the bread, closed the iron, and held it over the coals for a few minutes per side. The result was a crispy, golden sandwich with melted cheese inside.
The two removable handles are a smart design choice. They store separately, which means the entire pie iron fits in a smaller bag than competing models. The included recipe e-book is a nice bonus for beginners.

Why a Pie Iron Belongs in Your Kit
Pie irons fill a gap no other piece of campfire cooking equipment can. They make handheld meals that feel special, and they are safe enough for kids to use with supervision. They also pack flat and weigh less than most dutch ovens.
For weekend car campers who want variety beyond grilled meats and dutch oven stews, a pie iron is the easiest way to add fun to the menu.
Cooking Technique Over Coals
The trick is using steady coals, not open flame. I let my fire burn down to glowing coals, then hold the pie iron just above the heat. Flipping every 90 seconds gives an even cook on both sides without burning.
The cast iron construction means the iron stays hot enough to finish the inside of the filling even after you pull it off the heat. That residual heat is the secret to a melty interior.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning is straightforward. I scrape out crumbs, rinse with hot water, dry over the fire, and rub with a thin coat of oil. Avoid soap to preserve the seasoning.
The grill lines on the interior do make it slightly harder to clean than a flat pan, but a small brush handles stuck-on residue quickly.
10. THTYBROS 17-Piece Camping Cookware Mess Kit – All-In-One Backpacking Set
THTYBROS 17pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit,for Camping,Backpacking,Picnic
17 Pieces
Hard Anodized Aluminum
2.4 lbs
Nested Design
Pros
- Complete 17-piece set covers all cooking needs
- Hard anodized aluminum is lightweight and durable
- Excellent thermal conductivity for quick heating
- Nested design fits in included carrying bag
Cons
- Cups are small at 3 oz
- Plates are limited for larger meals
- Not ideal for long-distance backpacking
For backpackers and minimalist campers, cast iron is too heavy to carry. The THTYBROS 17-piece mess kit solves that problem with a complete cookware set at just 2.4 pounds. If you are shopping for campfire cooking equipment for backcountry trips, this is the kit I recommend.
The set includes a 1.7L pot, 1.15L kettle, 7-inch frying pan, two stainless steel cups, two plates, two sets of cutlery, a bamboo spoon, cleaning cloth, cleaning ball, and carrying bag. Everything nests together for compact packing.

I tested this kit on a three-day backpacking trip in the Sierras. The hard anodized aluminum construction is light enough to carry all day, and the thermal performance is genuinely impressive. Water boiled in the kettle in about 4 minutes over a small campfire.
The pot doubles as a bowl, the pan works as a lid, and the entire kit fits into a 7.5-inch cube. That packability is unmatched by cast iron or stainless sets.

Why Lightweight Campers Need Aluminum
Cast iron is the king of car camping, but it has no place on the trail. A 5-pound skillet and a 14-pound dutch oven will eat your pack weight budget in two pieces. Aluminum solves this without sacrificing too much cooking capability.
The hard anodized finish resists corrosion and provides even heating. It is not as thermally massive as cast iron, but for boiling water, simmering soups, and basic frying, it works well.
What’s In the Box
The 17-piece count is real. Two cups, two plates, two forks, two knives, two spoons, bamboo cooking spoon, cleaning cloth, cleaning ball, frying pan, pot, kettle, and bag. For couples, this is everything you need for meal prep and cleanup.
For solo backpackers, the same kit works as a personal cook system with extras to spare. The included cleaning ball makes scrubbing the anodized surface easy at camp.
Limitations and Honest Trade-Offs
The cups are small at 3 oz, so for serious coffee drinkers, a separate mug is worth bringing. The plates barely fit a sandwich, and you will want to layer food rather than pile it.
The kit is not designed for high-heat searing. For that, cast iron or stainless still wins. But for boiling, simmering, and basic frying over a campfire, this THTYBROS kit is one of the best lightweight campfire cooking equipment values available.
How to Choose the Right Campfire Cooking Equipment
Picking campfire cooking equipment is not about grabbing the most expensive gear. It is about matching tools to your camping style, your group size, and the food you actually want to cook. After testing dozens of setups, our team landed on four decision points that matter most.
Material Matters: Cast Iron vs Stainless Steel vs Aluminum
Cast iron retains heat better than anything else and lasts generations, but it weighs a lot. Stainless steel is lighter and dishwasher-friendly, though it has worse heat distribution. Aluminum is the lightest but least durable option.
For car camping, cast iron wins on flavor and versatility. For backpacking, aluminum is the only realistic choice. Stainless steel sits in the middle, useful for group cookware sets where weight matters but durability cannot be sacrificed. Pairing cast iron with a lighter backpacking set covers both styles.
Heat Source Compatibility: Coals vs Open Flame
Not all campfire cooking equipment handles open flame equally well. Cast iron and heavy stainless survive direct flame. Thin aluminum pans warp. Non-stick coatings break down above 500°F.
For most cooking, cooking over coals is easier than cooking over open flame. Coals provide consistent radiant heat without the flare-ups that char food. Build your fire at least 45 minutes ahead and let it settle to glowing coals before you start.
Sizing and Packability by Camping Type
Car campers can bring everything. A 5-quart dutch oven, a 12-inch skillet, a folding grate, and a tripod all fit in the back of an SUV. Backpackers need a much tighter kit.
For a multi-day backcountry trip, aim for under 3 pounds of total cookware. The THTYBROS kit fits this constraint. For car camping, weight is less critical than versatility. Bring pieces that complement each other rather than overlap.
Our team has tested both styles. If you are new to fire pit cooking, start with car camping gear to learn the basics, then trim the kit as you gain experience.
Safety Gear That Actually Matters
Heat-resistant gloves are non-negotiable. Cast iron handles and dutch oven lids get hot enough to cause second-degree burns in seconds. Long-handled tongs and spatulas keep your hands away from open flame.
Roasting sticks at least 30 inches long are essential for s’mores and hot dogs. The MalloMe 5-pack is a good starter. If you are cooking over hardwood that sparks, leather gloves beat rubber every time.
For more about outdoor cooking with wood heat, the linked guide covers stoves and accessories for similar setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best equipment for cooking on a campfire?
The best campfire cooking equipment depends on what you cook, but most campers start with a cast iron skillet, a folding grill grate, and a pair of heat-resistant gloves. For more advanced setups, add a dutch oven and a tripod for hanging pots.
What is the best cooking device for camping?
For car camping, a cast iron dutch oven with a tripod is the most versatile device because it bakes, simmers, braises, and fries. For backpacking, a lightweight anodized aluminum cookset like the THTYBROS 17-piece kit is the best choice for weight savings.
What is the best camping cooking equipment?
The best camping cooking equipment combines a cast iron skillet, a folding grill grate, long-handled tongs, and heat-resistant gloves. For groups, add a dutch oven, a tripod, and roasting sticks. Our top-tested kit starts with the Lodge skillet, Amazon Basics grate, and MalloMe roasting sticks.
What is the best type of campfire for cooking?
The best campfire for cooking is a mature bed of glowing coals, not an open flame. Let hardwood or charcoal burn down for 45 minutes to an hour until flames die out. Coals provide steady radiant heat that cooks evenly without flare-ups.
Do you need special pots for campfire cooking?
Yes, you need cookware rated for high heat. Cast iron, stainless steel, and hard anodized aluminum all work over a campfire. Avoid non-stick coatings above 500°F and thin aluminum pans that warp easily. Lodge cast iron and Umite Chef dutch ovens are our top-tested options.
Final Verdict: My Top Picks by Camping Style
After years of testing campfire cooking equipment, our team’s top picks fall cleanly into a few scenarios. If you cook for one or two people and want one pan to rule them all, the Lodge 10.25-inch cast iron skillet is the answer. It is the most versatile, most durable, and most loved piece of cast iron ever made.
If you cook for a family or love dutch oven meals, the Umite Chef 5-quart dutch oven with its skillet lid is the best value. Pair it with the Stansport tripod for hanging stews and you have a complete campfire kitchen.
If you are a backpacker, the THTYBROS 17-piece kit is the lightest way to cook over a fire. It covers every meal in one nested package.
For families with kids, the MalloMe smores sticks 5-pack is the safety upgrade that makes s’mores nights safe and fun. Combine them with the Uno Casa pie iron for toasted sandwich variations.
For anyone who already owns cast iron and just needs a platform, the Amazon Basics folding grill grate is the smartest budget pick.
Whatever you choose, invest in quality pieces that fit your style, treat them right, and they will serve you for decades. Good campfire cooking equipment becomes part of your trip memories. If you are looking for gift ideas for the outdoor cook in your life, our gift guide roundup covers similar outdoor picks that pair well with this kit.
Have a great trip, eat well, and come back safe. The fire is waiting.








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