Campfire Meals Kids Will Love:
Camping with kids creates magical memories, but mealtime in the great outdoors can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between setting up tents, gathering firewood, and keeping little ones entertained, the last thing you need is complicated cooking. That's why we've gathered these kid-approved, easy camping meals that require minimal prep, simple ingredients, and quick cleanup. From breakfast to dinner (and yes, those essential s'mores), these recipes will keep hungry campers happy while giving you more time to enjoy the adventure together.
Meal Planning Tips for Camping with Kids
Before diving into specific recipes, let's talk strategy. A little preparation before your camping trip can make mealtime much smoother when you're in the great outdoors.
Pre-Trip Preparation
The key to stress-free camp cooking is doing as much prep work as possible at home. This approach saves time and reduces the mess at your campsite.
- Pre-measure ingredients and store in labeled containers or zip-top bags
- Pre-cook items that take longer (rice, pasta, potatoes) and reheat at camp
- Chop vegetables and store in containers
- Pre-cook and freeze meat to use as ice packs in your cooler
- Create a meal plan for each day of your trip
Food Storage Tips
Proper food storage is crucial for both food safety and keeping your campsite organized.
- Use a quality cooler with plenty of ice for perishables
- Pack foods in the order you'll use them (last meals at the bottom)
- Store dry goods in waterproof containers
- Keep a separate cooler for drinks to avoid frequent opening of food cooler
- Consider freezing water bottles to use as ice packs (bonus: they become drinking water as they thaw)
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Get Your Free PlannerEasy Camping Breakfast Ideas Kids Will Love
Mornings at the campsite can be magical, but hungry kids need fuel for the day's adventures. These breakfast ideas are simple to prepare while still being nutritious and delicious.
Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos
These protein-packed burritos can be prepared at home and heated over the campfire for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Ingredients:
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 12 eggs, scrambled
- 1 pound breakfast sausage or bacon, cooked
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced potatoes, cooked
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- At home: Cook and cool all ingredients
- Assemble burritos by layering ingredients on tortillas
- Wrap tightly in foil and freeze
- At camp: Place foil-wrapped burritos on grill grate over campfire for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally
French Toast Sticks
A finger-friendly breakfast that kids can dip and enjoy. Perfect for little hands!
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of thick bread, cut into strips
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Butter for cooking
- Maple syrup for dipping
Preparation:
- Beat eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon in a bowl
- Dip bread strips in mixture
- Cook in buttered skillet or on griddle until golden brown
- Serve with maple syrup for dipping
No-Cook Overnight Oats
Prepare these the night before for a ready-to-eat breakfast that requires zero morning prep.
Ingredients (per serving):
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- ¼ cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips
Preparation:
- Combine all ingredients except toppings in a mason jar or container
- Stir well, seal, and refrigerate overnight in your cooler
- In the morning, add toppings and enjoy
"The secret to happy camping with kids is simple food that feels special. My children talk about our camping pancakes all year long!"
Campfire Pancake Hack
For super-easy pancakes, pre-mix your dry ingredients at home and store in a zip-top bag. At camp, just add water, shake, and snip the corner to squeeze perfect pancakes onto your griddle. Kids love helping with the squeezing part!
Quick and Easy Camping Lunch Ideas
After a morning of hiking or swimming, kids will be hungry for a satisfying lunch. These options are perfect for midday meals that don't require much cooking time.
Walking Tacos
A camping classic that kids absolutely love - tacos in a bag with no plates required!
Ingredients:
- Individual bags of corn chips
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Preparation:
- Cook meat in a skillet, drain fat
- Add taco seasoning and water according to package directions
- Open chip bags and slightly crush chips
- Add meat and desired toppings directly to chip bags
- Eat with a fork right from the bag
Foil Packet Meals
Customizable meals that cook in their own packets - perfect for picky eaters who can choose their own ingredients.
Ingredients (per packet):
- Protein: sliced sausage, chicken strips, or ground beef patty
- Vegetables: diced potatoes, carrots, corn, bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Preparation:
- Lay out a large piece of foil for each person
- Let kids add their choice of ingredients to their foil
- Top with butter and seasonings
- Fold foil to create sealed packets
- Cook over campfire coals for 15-20 minutes, turning once
Campfire Grilled Cheese
A classic favorite made even better with the smoky flavor from cooking over a campfire.
Ingredients:
- Sliced bread
- Butter or mayonnaise
- Sliced cheese (cheddar, American, or your favorite)
- Optional add-ins: sliced ham, turkey, or tomatoes
Preparation:
- Butter the outside of bread slices
- Place cheese and any add-ins between bread slices
- Cook in a cast iron skillet over the campfire until golden and cheese is melted
- Flip halfway through cooking
Lunch Packing Tip
If you're planning a hike or day trip away from your campsite, prepare lunch before you leave. Wrap sandwiches in parchment paper rather than plastic for an eco-friendly option that won't get soggy.
Satisfying Dinner Recipes for Camping with Kids
After a day of outdoor adventure, nothing beats gathering around the campfire for a hearty, delicious dinner. These kid-friendly camping meals are simple to prepare but satisfying enough for hungry explorers.
Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
This one-pot comfort food is always a hit with kids and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups water
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 3 cups shredded cheese
- 1 package hot dogs, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- In a Dutch oven, bring water to a boil
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes
- Drain most of the water, leaving about ½ cup
- Add butter, evaporated milk, and cheese, stirring until melted
- Add sliced hot dogs and heat through
- Season with salt and pepper
Pizza Pudgy Pies
Individual pizzas cooked in pie irons are fun for kids to customize with their favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
- Bread slices or refrigerated pizza dough
- Pizza sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices
- Other toppings as desired
- Butter for greasing pie irons
Preparation:
- Butter both sides of a pie iron
- Place bread or flattened pizza dough on one side
- Add sauce, cheese, and toppings
- Top with another piece of bread or dough
- Close pie iron and trim excess bread/dough
- Cook over campfire for 3-4 minutes per side until golden
One-Pot Campfire Chili
A hearty, warming meal that's perfect for cooler camping evenings and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cans kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream
Preparation:
- In a Dutch oven, brown ground beef and onions
- Add remaining ingredients and stir well
- Simmer over campfire for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally
- Serve with toppings and cornbread
Cast Iron Cooking Tips
A good cast iron skillet or Dutch oven is invaluable for camp cooking. Here's how to make the most of yours:
- Preheat your cast iron before adding food to prevent sticking
- Use a trivet or rocks to elevate your Dutch oven for more even cooking
- Clean with hot water and a stiff brush - never soap
- Dry thoroughly and apply a thin layer of oil after each use
Kid-Friendly Camping Desserts and Snacks
No camping trip is complete without some sweet treats and easy snacks to keep energy levels up between meals. These options are simple to prepare but feel special around the campfire.
Classic S'mores with Variations
The quintessential camping dessert with some creative twists to keep things interesting.
Ingredients for Classic S'mores:
- Graham crackers
- Chocolate bars
- Marshmallows
- Roasting sticks
Fun Variations:
- Peanut Butter Cup S'mores: Replace chocolate bar with peanut butter cup
- Strawberry S'mores: Add a slice of fresh strawberry
- Banana Boat S'mores: Slice banana lengthwise, fill with chocolate and marshmallows, wrap in foil and heat
- Cookie S'mores: Use chocolate chip cookies instead of graham crackers
Campfire Cinnamon Rolls
An easy but impressive breakfast treat or dessert that will make your camping trip feel extra special.
Ingredients:
- Tubes of refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- Butter for greasing Dutch oven
Preparation:
- Butter the inside of a Dutch oven
- Arrange cinnamon rolls in the Dutch oven
- Cover and place over medium-low heat with some coals on the lid
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through
- Remove from heat and drizzle with icing
DIY Trail Mix Bar
Let kids create their own custom trail mix for a personalized snack they'll actually eat.
Suggested Ingredients:
- Base: Cheerios, pretzels, popcorn, or granola
- Nuts: Peanuts, almonds, or cashews
- Dried fruits: Raisins, cranberries, or banana chips
- Sweets: Chocolate chips, M&Ms, or yogurt-covered raisins
- Extras: Coconut flakes, sunflower seeds, or small crackers
Preparation:
- Set out ingredients in separate containers
- Give each child a small bag or container
- Let them choose their favorite mix-ins
- Store in sealed containers for snacking throughout your trip
Campfire Safety with Kids
When cooking over a campfire with children, safety must be the top priority:
- Establish a "fire safety circle" that younger children must stay outside of unless accompanied by an adult
- Teach proper stick handling for roasting marshmallows (point down when not in use)
- Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies
- Never leave the fire unattended
- Fully extinguish the fire when cooking is complete
Essential Equipment for Cooking with Kids While Camping
Having the right tools makes camp cooking with children much easier and more enjoyable. These essentials will help you prepare delicious meals without the hassle.
Basic Cooking Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or Dutch oven
- Portable camp stove
- Aluminum foil (heavy duty)
- Cooking grate for campfire
- Long-handled cooking utensils
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Pie irons for pudgy pies
Food Prep and Storage
- Quality cooler with ice packs
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zip-top bags and containers
- Paper towels and wet wipes
- Biodegradable soap
- Trash bags
Serving and Eating
- Reusable plates, bowls, and cups
- Durable utensils
- Insulated mugs for hot drinks
- Collapsible water container
- Tablecloth or picnic blanket
- Roasting sticks for marshmallows
- Portable camp table
Kid-Friendly Cooking Tools
Getting kids involved in camp cooking is easier with the right tools. Consider these kid-friendly options that make cooking safer and more fun:
- Child-sized oven mitts
- Telescoping marshmallow roasting sticks with safety handles
- Squeeze bottles for pancake batter
- Color-coded cutting boards (soft foods only for younger children)
- Measuring cups with clear markings
Tips for Making Camp Cooking Fun for Kids
Involving children in meal preparation not only helps lighten your load but creates wonderful memories and teaches valuable skills. Here's how to make cooking a highlight of your camping adventure.
Age-Appropriate Tasks
Assign cooking responsibilities based on age and ability:
Toddlers (2-3 years):
- Stirring cold ingredients
- Washing fruits and vegetables
- Adding pre-measured ingredients
- Arranging items on plates
Preschoolers (4-5 years):
- Tearing lettuce or herbs
- Assembling simple sandwiches
- Measuring dry ingredients
- Helping set the table
School-Age (6-9 years):
- Cutting soft foods with supervision
- Mixing ingredients
- Assembling foil packets
- Helping with cleanup
Older Children (10+ years):
- Supervised cooking on camp stove
- Following simple recipes
- Helping plan meals
- Washing dishes
Making Cooking Educational
Turn meal preparation into a learning opportunity:
- Teach fire safety and outdoor cooking skills
- Discuss food sources and nutrition
- Practice math through measuring and timing
- Explore local plants and foods if appropriate
- Discuss leave-no-trace principles while cooking
Making Mealtime Special
Create camping traditions around meals:
- Let each family member plan one special meal
- Create a "restaurant name" for your camp kitchen
- Use special camping-only dishes or placemats
- Share highlights of the day during dinner
- Create a special campfire dessert tradition
"Some of our most treasured family memories come from cooking together at our campsite. The kids still talk about the time we made pizza in a cast iron skillet over the fire!"
Creating Memories Through Camp Cooking
The meals you prepare while camping may not be perfect, and that's part of the charm. What matters most is the time spent together, the skills learned, and the memories created around the campfire. With these easy camping meals for kids, you can spend less time stressing about food and more time enjoying your outdoor adventure.
Remember that flexibility is key when cooking outdoors with children. Weather changes, equipment limitations, and unexpected circumstances are all part of the camping experience. Embrace the imperfections, laugh at the mishaps, and celebrate the small victories – like perfectly toasted marshmallows or a child trying a new food.
Most importantly, involve your children in the process from meal planning to cleanup. The skills they learn while camping – food preparation, fire safety, teamwork, and resourcefulness – will serve them well throughout their lives. And the memories of cooking and eating together under the open sky will last a lifetime.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Meals for Kids
How do I keep food cold while camping?
Use a high-quality cooler and pre-chill it before packing. Freeze water bottles and use them as ice packs (they'll thaw for drinking water). Pack foods in the order you'll use them, with later meals at the bottom. Keep the cooler in shade and minimize opening it. Consider bringing two coolers—one for frequently accessed items like drinks and another for meals.
What are the easiest meals to cook while camping with kids?
The easiest camping meals include foil packet meals (prepared ahead and cooked in the fire), one-pot pasta dishes, walking tacos, and pre-made breakfast burritos. Anything that requires minimal prep at the campsite and few dishes will make your life easier. Don't forget no-cook options like sandwiches and wraps for lunches.
How can I get my picky eater to try camping foods?
Involve picky eaters in meal planning and preparation. Let them choose some meals and help cook them. Keep some familiar foods on hand while gently encouraging trying new things. The outdoor setting and increased activity often make children more willing to try new foods. Consider a "one bite" rule where they try just a taste of new foods without pressure to finish.
What should I do about washing dishes at a campsite?
Bring three collapsible buckets—one for washing with biodegradable soap, one for rinsing, and one for sanitizing with a small amount of bleach in water. Scrape food waste into your trash before washing. Use minimal soap and dispose of gray water according to campground rules (usually at least 200 feet from water sources). Consider bringing paper plates for some meals to reduce washing.
How much food should I pack for a camping trip with kids?
Children typically eat more while camping due to increased activity. A good rule of thumb is to pack about 25-30% more food than you would normally consume at home. Plan for three meals plus two snacks per day per person. Don't forget extra snacks for hiking or swimming days when energy needs are higher.
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