Cast Iron Skillet for Camping Meals: Top Picks (2023-2024)

When cooking over an open flame or on a camp stove, an even heat distribution is crucial for a perfect result. A cast iron skillet can handle high heats, making it perfect for campfire cooking. Plus, its natural non-stick surface only improves with use, ensuring your meals slide right off the pan after cooking.

But to find the perfect cast iron skillet for camping, there are a few key factors to consider: size, weight, and durability. A skillet that is too large or heavy can be burdensome to carry with you on your trip. On the other hand, a smaller pan might limit your cooking options. Also, a durable skillet that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use is essential to make your investment worthwhile.

With these critical points in mind, we dove deep into the market to find the best cast iron skillets tailored for camping experiences. In our search, we put countless hours into research to identify the ones perfect for making those delicious campfire meals both easy and enjoyable.

Top Cast Iron Skillets for Camping

Discover the best cast iron skillets perfect for your camping adventures below. These reliable and durable products will elevate your outdoor cooking experience.

Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet 20″

This skillet is perfect for a group camping adventure with its large capacity and easy non-stick cooking.

Pros

• Large capacity for group cooking
• Pre-seasoned, ready to cook right away
• Sturdy construction with heavy gauge steel

Cons

• Might be too large for some camp setups
• Rust spots and scratches might occur
• Non-stick performance could be improved

If you’re headed for a weekend camping trip with a group of friends or family, this Camp Chef Lumberjack Skillet is a great addition to your outdoor cooking setup. The 20″ size allows you to cook meals for several people at once, meaning less time spent on meal prep and more time enjoying the great outdoors.

The skillet comes pre-seasoned, which means you can start cooking on it right away. With its heavy gauge steel construction, the skillet is built to last through countless camping adventures. Its large handle provides stability and support when moving the skillet around to make meal prep a breeze.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Due to its large size, it might not fit well in smaller campfires or setups, so make sure to measure your grate or cooking area to ensure the skillet will work for you. Some users have reported receiving the skillet with rust spots or scratched coatings, which could affect its non-stick performance. In addition, the non-stick performance might not be as good as advertised, so take the time to properly season it before use, and be prepared to potentially deal with some sticking.

Lodge 8 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet

A solid choice for campfire cooking with lasting durability and excellent heat retention.

Pros

• Pre-seasoned and easy to maintain
• Works well on various heat sources
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons

• Quite heavy
• May require additional seasoning
• Not completely non-stick initially

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, the Lodge 8 Inch Cast Iron Skillet offers a versatile and durable option for cooking outdoors. Its pre-seasoned surface ensures a natural, easy-release finish for your food, and it only gets better with use.

One of the key advantages of this skillet is its compatibility with various heat sources. Cook over a roaring campfire, on the camp stove, or even back home on the oven. Its excellent heat retention ensures even and consistent cooking, regardless of the environment.

However, be prepared to build some arm strength, as the skillet is quite heavy. This weight is a trade-off for the great durability it offers. Cast iron skillets, including this one, are often passed down through generations, making it a worthy investment.

Some users may find the skillet’s surface not entirely non-stick initially. If this is the case for you, don’t worry; just apply a light layer of vegetable oil and follow the care instructions to further season the skillet. This will improve its non-stick properties over time.

Bruntmor 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Pan

Elevate your camping cooking experience with this versatile and durable Bruntmor cast iron skillet.

Pros

• Pre-seasoned and ready for immediate use
• Exceptional heat retention on various cooking surfaces
• Sturdy dual handles for secure handling of large dishes

Cons

• Somewhat heavy at 5.89 pounds
• May require deeper seasoning for specific cooking needs
• Not dishwasher safe

The Bruntmor 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Pan is an excellent addition to your camping cookware collection. Its pre-seasoned surface allows you to start cooking right away, eliminating the need for initial seasoning. The exceptional heat retention capabilities of this skillet make it suitable for use on gas, electric, and induction cooktops, as well as over a campfire. Whether you’re frying up some bacon or whipping up an omelet, this skillet will evenly cook your food to perfection.

Dual loop handles provide a secure grip when handling the pan, ensuring seamless maneuvering when cooking up a feast for your fellow campers. The skillet’s heat resistance of up to 500°F also makes it great for oven roasting or cooking over an open flame. You’ll appreciate this iron skillet’s versatility in both the kitchen and the outdoors.

However, it’s worth noting that the skillet weighs 5.89 pounds, which may be a concern if you’re looking for a lightweight option for backpacking trips. Additionally, some users might find that the skillet needs deeper seasoning for specific cooking tasks. In those cases, you can simply add more seasoning layers before use. As this cast iron skillet is not dishwasher safe, cleaning will require a bit of elbow grease and the right tools but is manageable with proper care.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best cast iron skillet for camping, there are a few key factors you should consider.

Size and Weight

One of the first things you’ll want to think about is the size and weight of the skillet. Cast iron can be quite heavy, so you’ll want to find a balance between a skillet that’s large enough to cook your meals, but not too heavy for carrying around.

• Small (6-8 inches): These are great for single campers, or for smaller meals. They’re easier to carry, but may not be suitable for cooking larger dishes.
• Medium (10-12 inches): Perfect for small groups or families, this size can handle larger meals and offers more cooking space.
• Large (14+ inches): These are ideal for larger groups and outdoor gatherings, but may be more difficult to carry due to their weight.

Consider what you’ll be cooking most and how many people you’ll typically be serving, then choose a size that best fits your needs.

Handle and Lid

A good handle is essential for safe and comfortable cooking while camping. Look for a handle with a comfortable grip and enough length to keep your hand away from the heat. Some skillets even offer removable or foldable handles for easier transport and storage.

You may also want to consider a skillet with a lid, as it helps retain heat, speeds up cooking times, and can be useful for simmering or baking in your skillet. A tight-fitting lid is ideal, and you may even find a skillet with a lid that doubles as a griddle for added versatility.

Seasoning and Maintenance

Cast iron skillets require proper seasoning and maintenance to perform at their best. Skillets that come pre-seasoned are a great option, as it saves you time and effort before your first use.

Make sure you know how to care for your cast iron skillet while camping, including proper cleaning and seasoning techniques. A well-maintained cast iron skillet can last you a lifetime, so take the time to learn how to keep it in tip-top shape.

Material and Durability

Although cast iron is the classic choice for camping skillets, there are also options that combine cast iron with other materials like stainless steel or enamel coating.

Stainless steel offers improved heat distribution and lighter weight, but may not hold heat as well as traditional cast iron. Enamel coatings can provide a non-stick surface and make cleaning easier, but you’ll want to ensure that it’s a quality coating that won’t chip or wear easily.

Consider the pros and cons of each material and decide which best suits your preferences and needs.

With these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect cast iron skillet for your camping trips.