Edit: Right now Lodge is offering 50% off their skillets, cookware, etc. Click Here To Take Advantage Of The Deal
In the realm of camping, possessing the appropriate equipment is key to enhancing your overall experience. A crucial piece of equipment to have with you is a skillet, providing the ability to prepare various meals over an open flame or using a camping stove. However, it’s important to note that not every skillet is of the same quality, and selecting the ideal one for your specific requirements may seem daunting. This is where our expertise comes into play.
We’ve researched and tested several skillets to help you find the best one for camping. When making a purchase, it’s important to consider factors such as size, weight, durability, and heat distribution. A good camping skillet should be compact and lightweight enough to fit in your camping gear, while still being sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. Additionally, the skillet should distribute heat evenly to ensure that your food cooks evenly.
Here are some other things to keep in mind when choosing the best skillet for camping:
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Material: Look for a skillet made from a durable material that can handle high heat and won’t warp or scratch easily. Cast iron is a popular choice for camping skillets, as it’s durable and retains heat well. However, it can be heavy and require seasoning to prevent rust. Stainless steel is another good option, as it’s lightweight and easy to clean, but it doesn’t retain heat as well as cast iron.
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Size: Consider how many people you’ll be cooking for and choose a skillet that’s the right size for your needs. A 10-12 inch skillet is a good all-purpose size for camping, but if you’re cooking for a larger group, you may want to go with a larger skillet.
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Handle: Look for a skillet with a sturdy handle that’s easy to grip and won’t get too hot to touch. Some skillets come with a detachable handle, which can be useful for packing and storage.
After testing several skillets, we’ve determined that the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is the best option for camping. Its durable cast iron construction provides even heat distribution and retains heat well, while the 10.25 inch size is perfect for cooking for one or two people. The skillet also comes pre-seasoned, so you can start using it right away. Overall, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a reliable and versatile choice for any camping trip.
Best Skillets for Camping
Looking for the best skillet to take on your next camping trip? We’ve got you covered. Our team has researched and tested various skillets to bring you a list of the top options for outdoor cooking. Whether you’re cooking over an open fire or using a camping stove, these skillets will make mealtime a breeze. Check out our list below for our top picks.
- Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
- GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Skillet
- Snow Peak Trek Titanium Skillet
- Texsport Cast Iron Skillet
- MSR Ceramic Solo Pot
Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet
We highly recommend the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet for your camping needs. This classic American skillet is made in the USA and has been a staple in kitchens around the world for over 125 years.
Pros
- The naturally seasoned cooking surface creates an easy-release and improves with use.
- Cast iron cookware is slow to heat up but retains heat longer, making it ideal for pan-frying and roasting.
- The skillet is virtually indestructible and comes with a lifetime warranty.
Cons
- The skillet is heavy, weighing in at over 5 pounds.
- The skillet requires special care, including washing with warm water and oiling the surface while warm.
- The skillet is not dishwasher safe.
The Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet is perfect for cooking up hearty breakfasts on a camping trip. The skillet can fry up eggs, pancakes, and bacon with ease, and can also be used to cook steaks, chicken, and hamburgers. The skillet’s two side spouts make it easy to pour off grease or juice, and the helper handle aids in lifting.
The skillet’s natural seasoning makes it easy to release food and improve with each use. However, it does require special care, including washing with warm water and oiling the surface while warm. The skillet is also heavy, weighing in at over 5 pounds, which may not be ideal for backpacking trips.
Overall, the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet is a durable and versatile option for camping trips. Its natural seasoning and even heat distribution make it a reliable choice for cooking up delicious meals in the great outdoors.
Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set Of 7
If you’re looking for a complete camping cooking set, then the Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set Of 7 is the perfect option for you. This set includes all the necessary pots and pans that you need for your camping trip.
Pros
- The high-quality cast iron material ensures durability and longevity.
- The non-stick feature of the Dutch Oven, Griddle Pan, Frying pan, and Kettle makes it easy to cook and clean.
- The travel bag makes it easy to carry and store the set.
Cons
- The wooden storage box is not very sturdy and needs to be handled with care.
- The set is quite heavy and may not be suitable for backpacking trips.
- The wooden box may not be able to withstand rough handling during transportation.
This camping cooking set is perfect for those who love to cook outdoors. The high-quality cast iron material ensures that the pots and pans are durable and can withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. The non-stick feature of the Dutch Oven, Griddle Pan, Frying pan, and Kettle makes it easy to cook and clean. The travel bag makes it easy to carry and store the set, making it perfect for camping trips.
The wooden storage box is a nice touch, but it is not very sturdy and needs to be handled with care. The set is quite heavy, so it may not be suitable for backpacking trips. The wooden box may not be able to withstand rough handling during transportation, so it’s important to be careful when transporting it.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a complete camping cooking set, the Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set Of 7 is a great option. It has all the necessary pots and pans that you need for your camping trip, and the high-quality cast iron material ensures durability and longevity. The non-stick feature of the Dutch Oven, Griddle Pan, Frying pan, and Kettle makes it easy to cook and clean, and the travel bag makes it easy to carry and store the set.
Fire-Maple 7.6 Inch Camping Frying Pan w/Nonstick Coating
If you’re looking for a durable and lightweight camping skillet that can cook a variety of foods, the Fire-Maple 7.6 Inch Camping Frying Pan w/Nonstick Coating is worth considering.
Pros
- Stick-free cooking experience
- Even heating with thicker bottom design
- Durable heatproof handle
Cons
- Only for stovetop use
- Not dishwasher safe
- No oven use
We recently took the Fire-Maple 7.6 Inch Camping Frying Pan w/Nonstick Coating on a camping trip and were impressed with its performance. The nonstick coating made cooking eggs, bacon, and steaks a breeze and the thicker bottom design ensured even heating. The handle was easy to grip and remained cool even when the pan was hot.
One thing to note is that this camping skillet is only for stovetop use and is not dishwasher safe. Additionally, it cannot be used in the oven. However, it’s compact and lightweight, weighing only 9.2oz and folding down to 7.87.62.2in, making it easy to pack with your camping gear.
Overall, we would recommend the Fire-Maple 7.6 Inch Camping Frying Pan w/Nonstick Coating for its durability, lightweight design, and stick-free cooking experience.
Bodkar Frying Pan Skillet
If you’re looking for a lightweight and portable skillet for camping, the Bodkar Frying Pan Skillet is worth considering.
Pros
- This skillet is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry with you on your camping trip.
- The detachable wooden handle is convenient for storage and transportation.
- The skillet is suitable for various cooktops, including gas stoves, wood burning stoves, grill tops, griddle tops, electric and ceramic cook tops.
Cons
- The wooden handle may not be as durable as other materials.
- The skillet is not oven safe.
- The nonstick coating may not last as long as other skillets.
We recently took the Bodkar Frying Pan Skillet on a camping trip and were impressed with its portability and convenience. The skillet is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry with you on your camping trip. The detachable wooden handle is also convenient for storage and transportation.
One of the best features of this skillet is its versatility. It is suitable for various cooktops, including gas stoves, wood burning stoves, grill tops, griddle tops, electric and ceramic cook tops. This makes it a great option for camping trips where you may not have access to a specific type of cooktop.
However, there are a few downsides to consider. The wooden handle may not be as durable as other materials, and the skillet is not oven safe. Additionally, the nonstick coating may not last as long as other skillets.
Overall, we would recommend the Bodkar Frying Pan Skillet for anyone looking for a lightweight and portable skillet for camping. It’s versatile and convenient, making it a great addition to any camping trip.
Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set Fry Pan Cook Set (9 Pieces)
If you’re looking for a compact and durable skillet for camping, the Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set Fry Pan Cook Set (9 Pieces) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 9-piece cook set is designed to serve two people, and includes a 3-ply frying pan, cutting board, plates, sporks, spatula with extending handle, trivet, and cover.
- The camping cooking pots and accessories nest into each other, saving on space and making it easy to transport.
- The BPA-free 18/8 stainless steel construction ensures the skillet never rusts or breaks, and is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Cons
- The lid could seal a little tighter.
- There is no bail wire to hang the skillet above a fire.
- The cutting board may not survive a sharp blade.
This skillet is perfect for those who want to go on an adventure without dealing with unnecessary bulk. The compact design makes it easy to pack and transport, and the nesting feature ensures that all the pieces stay in place. The skillet is also crafted for durability, so you can rest assured that it will last for years to come.
The Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set Fry Pan Cook Set (9 Pieces) is a great gift idea for the outdoorsman in your life. Whether it’s for Father’s Day, Christmas, or a birthday, this fry pan camp cook set is sure to be appreciated.
Overall, we highly recommend the Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set Fry Pan Cook Set (9 Pieces) for anyone who wants a compact and durable skillet for camping. It’s a great investment that will last a lifetime, and with a lifetime warranty, you can’t go wrong.
Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 20″
If you’re looking for a skillet that can handle large group cooking, then the Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 20″ is a great choice. With its large capacity, it’s perfect for cooking a feast fit for even the biggest appetite. We’ve used this skillet on several camping trips and it has never disappointed us.
Pros
- The large capacity makes it perfect for group cooking.
- It’s out of the box ready to cook in seconds.
- The true seasoned finish and heavy gauge steel make it durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- It’s quite heavy, which can make it difficult to transport.
- The size may be too large for some camping setups.
- It’s not oven safe.
The deep-dish sides and thin patina of the steel skillet make for easy, non-stick cooking. The wide handle provides extra stability and support to move the skillet as needed. We love using this skillet to cook up bacon, eggs, and pancakes for a large group of campers. It’s also great for cooking up a big pot of chili or stew.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 20″ is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to transport. However, we’ve found that the durability and large cooking surface make up for the weight. Additionally, the size of the skillet may be too large for some camping setups, so make sure to measure your cooking area before purchasing.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting skillet that can handle large group cooking, then the Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 20″ is a great choice. Its true seasoned finish and heavy gauge steel make it a reliable and sturdy addition to any camping trip.
Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 16″
If you’re looking for a skillet that can handle cooking for a large group when camping, the Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 16″ is a great option. With its large capacity and high sides, it’s perfect for cooking up a big breakfast or dinner. The true seasoned steel provides a non-stick surface that makes cooking and cleaning up a breeze.
Pros
- Large capacity for group cooking
- True seasoned finish for non-stick cooking
- High sides for better food control
Cons
- Heavy and difficult to manage with just one hand
- Handle is not riveted to the pan
- Takes up a lot of space in storage
We recently used the Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 16″ on a camping trip with a group of friends. The size of the skillet was perfect for cooking up a big breakfast for everyone. The high sides of the skillet made it easy to cook bacon and eggs without any of the food spilling over. The true seasoned steel also made cooking and cleaning up a breeze, and we didn’t have to worry about any food sticking to the surface.
However, we did find that the skillet was quite heavy and difficult to manage with just one hand. The handle on the front of the skillet provided some support, but we still had to use both hands to carry or pour the skillet. Additionally, we were disappointed to find that the handle was not riveted to the pan, which made us worry about it coming loose over time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a large skillet that can handle cooking for a group while camping, the Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 16″ is a great option. Just be prepared for its weight and size, and make sure to store it carefully so it doesn’t take up too much space.
The Pathfinder School Stainless Steel Folding Skillet and Lid
If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight skillet for your camping trips, The Pathfinder School Stainless Steel Folding Skillet and Lid might be the right choice for you. With its sturdy construction and efficient design, this skillet is perfect for outdoor cooking.
Pros
- The 8-inch diameter of the skillet is perfect for cooking small to medium-sized meals.
- The locking folding handle makes it easy to store and transport the skillet.
- The lid with D-ring allows you to cover your food and keep it warm.
Cons
- The skillet is not oven safe, so you can’t use it to bake or roast.
- The nonstick coating is not available, so you need to be careful when cooking to prevent food from sticking.
- The skillet is not suitable for large groups, as it can only hold 2 liters of food.
We recently used The Pathfinder School Stainless Steel Folding Skillet and Lid during our camping trip, and we were impressed by its performance. The skillet heated up quickly and evenly, and the food cooked to perfection. The locking folding handle made it easy to store the skillet in our backpack, and the lid with D-ring kept our food warm until we were ready to eat.
One thing to keep in mind is that the skillet is not oven safe, so you can’t use it to bake or roast. Also, the nonstick coating is not available, so you need to be careful when cooking to prevent food from sticking. However, the skillet is easy to clean, and the stainless steel construction makes it durable and long-lasting.
Overall, we would highly recommend The Pathfinder School Stainless Steel Folding Skillet and Lid to anyone looking for a compact and efficient skillet for their camping trips. It’s a great investment that will make your outdoor cooking experience more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best skillet for camping, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look out for:
Size and Weight
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a skillet for camping is the size and weight. You want something that is lightweight and easy to carry, but also large enough to cook for your group. A skillet that is too small will be frustrating to use, while one that is too large will be difficult to carry.
Material
Another important factor to consider is the material of the skillet. Cast iron is a popular choice for camping skillets because it is durable and retains heat well. However, it can be heavy and difficult to clean. Stainless steel is another good option because it is lightweight and easy to clean, but it doesn’t retain heat as well as cast iron.
Handle
The handle of the skillet is also an important consideration. Look for a skillet with a sturdy handle that is comfortable to hold and won’t get too hot to touch. Some skillets also come with a removable handle, which can be convenient for packing and storage.
Non-Stick Coating
A non-stick coating can be a helpful feature for camping skillets, as it makes them easier to clean and can prevent food from sticking. However, be sure to choose a skillet with a high-quality non-stick coating that won’t wear off easily.
Price
Finally, consider your budget when choosing a skillet for camping. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, there are plenty of affordable options available that will still meet your needs.
Overall, when choosing a skillet for camping, look for something that is lightweight, durable, and easy to use. With the right skillet, you can enjoy delicious meals in the great outdoors without sacrificing quality or convenience.