Introduction

Feeding a large group while camping can be a challenging task. Luckily, there are several handy accessories out there that can make your camping kitchen more efficient, and turn you into the campsite chef you’ve always dreamed of becoming. This post will guide you through some of the essential accessories that you should consider when cooking for a large group on a camping trip.

Benefits of Accessories for Group Cooking While Camping

Having the right accessories in your camping kitchen kit can make meal prep easier, more efficient, and even more enjoyable. You’ll be able to cook a wider variety of dishes, serve everyone more quickly, and ensure that all food is cooked evenly and thoroughly.

Essential Camping Cooking Accessories

Here are four key accessories that can enhance your group cooking experience:

A. Griddle

A griddle is a versatile addition to your camping gear. Ideal for breakfast foods like pancakes and bacon, it can also handle burgers, quesadillas, and more. Choose a cast-iron griddle for durability and excellent heat retention.

A griddle is a flat cooking surface with a large area perfect for cooking breakfast, grilling sandwiches, and even making stir-fry meals. When choosing a griddle for camping, consider these key factors:

Material: Cast iron griddles are popular due to their excellent heat retention and even heating. Aluminum griddles are also a good choice due to their lighter weight.

Size: Pick a size that suits your group and your camp stove. Griddles come in various sizes, so make sure to choose one that can accommodate your needs.

Reversible: Many griddles are reversible, with a smooth side for cooking pancakes and eggs, and a ridged side for grilling meats and vegetables.

Handles: A griddle with handles is easier to move and adjust over the fire.

Here are two top-rated griddles perfect for camping:

1. Lodge LPGI3 Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle, 20-inch x 10.44-inch, Black

This heavy-duty griddle offers a generous cooking surface and fits over two stovetop burners. One side is a griddle, the other a grill. Its slight slope directs grease into the grease gutter.

2. Camp Chef Professional Fry Griddle, 3 Burner Griddle, Cooking Dimensions: 16 in. x 38 in

This griddle comes with built-in heat diffuser plates that distribute heat evenly across the entire surface and reduce “hot spots”. It features high sides for better food containment and a convenient carry handle.

Lastly, if you are looking for a standalone griddle powered by propane, check out my article on the “Top 3 Standalone Griddles for the Ultimate Camping Experience” which reviews the top 3 and all that they have to offer

B. Collapsible Camp Kitchen

A collapsible camp kitchen gives you extra workspace and organization. Many models feature a countertop for meal prep, a rack for hanging utensils, and even a storage shelf for your cooler or camp stove.

Collapsible camp kitchens are an incredibly useful tool for group cooking. When looking for a collapsible camp kitchen, there are a few key features to consider:

Size and Stability: Consider the overall size and stability of the structure. It should be large enough to accommodate your cooking needs, but sturdy enough to handle the weight of your camp stove, pots, pans, and food supplies.

Material: Look for durable, weather-resistant materials. Polyester and aluminum are popular choices due to their lightweight and durable nature.

Storage Options: A good camp kitchen will have several compartments for storage. This might include shelves for food and cooking utensils, hooks for hanging pots and pans, and a designated space for your camp stove.

Portability: The whole purpose of a collapsible camp kitchen is to make transport and storage easy. Look for models that fold down into a compact size and have a carrying bag.

Here are three highly-rated collapsible camp kitchens:

1. GCI Outdoor Master Cook Station Portable Camp Kitchen Outdoor Folding Table

This camp kitchen offers a spacious aluminum countertop, soft-shell sink with a drain, three plastic fold-out tables, and numerous storage compartments. Its sturdy steel frame can support up to 144 pounds.

2. Coleman Pack-Away Portable Kitchen

This model features a removable sink, a side stand where you can place a camping stove, and plenty of storage space. It’s made of durable rust-resistant aluminum with a sturdy steel frame.

3. SylvanSport Outdoor Camp Kitchen System for Easy Cooking, Clean Up, Camping Meal Prep

This camp kitchen is the deluxe, glamping-style kitchen setup.  While this might set you back a little more in the price, it comes with a storage system and a collapsible sink.  The ultimate in a kitchen set up for those long camping vacays !

C. Multi-Functional Cooking Pot

A multi-functional cooking pot is a must-have for group cooking. Look for one that can be used as a pot, frying pan, and serving dish. This saves on packing space and reduces clean-up time.

A multi-functional cooking pot is truly a game-changer for camping. This versatile piece of cookware can save you a lot of space and time when preparing meals outdoors. When shopping for one, keep these considerations in mind:

Material: Look for durable materials that can withstand high temperatures and rugged use. Stainless steel and hard-anodized aluminum are popular choices.

Versatility: The pot should ideally serve multiple purposes, such as a pot, frying pan, and serving dish. Some even come with lids that can double as plates.

Capacity: Consider the size of the pot based on the number of people you typically cook for. A pot with 2-3 liters capacity is suitable for a small group, while you might need a larger one for bigger groups.

Handles: Heat-resistant and foldable handles are useful features to look for, making it easier to cook and carry the pot.

Here are three top-rated multi-functional cooking pots suitable for camping:

1. GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Cooking Set for 8-10 People

For those of you who prefer Stainless Steel over Teflon, this 3-piece Stainless Steel cook set contains one 8. 5-liter pot, one 5-liter pot, 2 lids, and a 10-inch fry pan with a folding handle and a large Stuff Sack to pack it all away.  

2. Sea to Summit X-Set 3-Piece Collapsible Camp Kitchen Cookware Set

Are you kidding it’s collapsible?  This innovative set includes 2.8-liter collapsible pot and 1.3-liter kettle and an 8 inch pan.  Both the pot and kettle have a hard-anodized aluminum base for camp stove use and silicone walls that collapse down for easy packing.

3. GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Base Camper, 8-Piece Camp Cookset

This cook set is perfect for group camping. It comes with 2 Pots, Frypan, 2 Nylon Strainer Lids, Cutting Board, Folding Handle, and a Stuff/Sink Sack. The pots and pan are coated with Teflon Classic for good non-stick performance.

D. Dutch Oven

I love bringing my Dutch oven on our camping trips – it’s super versatile! You can use it for everything from baking bread to simmering stews, making you feel like you are ‘Cowboy Cooking’.  

Material: Dutch ovens for camping are typically made of cast iron. Cast iron is durable, retains heat excellently, and can withstand the high temperatures of a campfire or camp stove.

Size: The size you choose will depend on how many people you’re cooking for. A 4-quart Dutch oven is usually sufficient for 2-3 people, while an 8-quart size would suit a larger group.

Lid: A tight-fitting lid is crucial for slow-cooking and baking in a Dutch oven. Some lids even double as a griddle.

Legs: Dutch ovens designed for camping usually have three legs to allow them to sit over campfire coals.

Here are three highly-rated Dutch ovens suitable for camping:

1. Lodge Cast Iron Serving Pot Dutch Oven with Dual Handles, Pre-Seasoned, 7-Quart

This Dutch oven has a 7-quart capacity and comes pre-seasoned, ready for immediate use. It features a lid that doubles as a skillet, providing even more cooking versatility.

2. Camp Chef Classic 10″ Dutch Oven

This large Dutch oven is perfect for group cooking. It features a thermometer notch, a deep-dish lid that increases airflow for more even cooking, and it also comes pre-seasoned.

3. Bruntmor 2-in-1, 9 Quart Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Set With Deep Fry Basket With Stainless Steel Lid

I really like the addition to this Dutch Oven that allows you to cook deep-fried foods.  With its 9 quart capacity, you can easily cook meals one night and swap over the next making fresh-cut french fries or fry up some homemade donuts for the kids.  

Additional Helpful Accessories

Expand your cooking repertoire with these additional tools:

A. Portable Campfire Grill Grate

Perfect for cooking over an open fire, a portable grill grate allows you to grill meats and vegetables easily. 

B. BBQ Tools

Long-handled BBQ tools can keep your hands safe from the heat when you’re grilling for a group. Look for a set that includes tongs, a spatula, and a BBQ fork.

Conclusion

The right cooking accessories can significantly improve your experience when cooking for large groups while camping. With these tools in your kit, you’ll be able to whip up a wider variety of dishes with less stress and more enjoyment.

FAQs

1. How do I clean and maintain my cooking accessories?

Most camping cooking accessories can be cleaned with warm soapy water. Dry them thoroughly before storing them to prevent rusting.

2. Can these accessories be used on any type of camping stove?

Most of these accessories are versatile and can be used with a variety of stoves, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines.

3. What other accessories can help with group cooking?

Other handy items include a camping coffee maker, a cooler, and a water purifier. Large serving dishes, cutlery, and collapsible tables/chairs can also greatly enhance your group cooking experience

4. How long can I expect these accessories to last?

With proper care and maintenance, these accessories can last for many years. The exact lifespan depends on the quality of the materials and the frequency of use.

5. What is the best way to organize my cooking accessories?

Keeping your cooking accessories organized can make the cooking process much smoother. Consider investing in storage solutions like stackable containers, zippered pouches, or dedicated travel organizer.