Imagine this: the campfire crackles, the stars are bright overhead, and you’re about to cook a delicious meal. But what if your campfire cooking is a little… messy? Or maybe you’re tired of unevenly cooked burgers and soggy pancakes. That’s where a camping griddle can be a total game-changer!
Choosing the right camping griddle can feel like a quest. There are so many to pick from! Some are big, some are small. Some run on propane, others you put right on the fire. It’s tough to know which one will make your outdoor cooking easy and tasty. You want something that cooks food perfectly every time, without a lot of fuss.
That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of camping griddles. In this post, we’ll explore what makes a great griddle and help you find the one that fits your outdoor adventures. Get ready to discover how to upgrade your camp cooking and enjoy perfectly cooked meals, from sunrise breakfast to sunset dinners.
Our Top 5 Camping Griddle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Camping Griddle Detailed Reviews
1. Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Faceplate
Rating: 9.2/10
The Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle is a fantastic addition to any outdoor cooking setup. Its sleek black powder-coated steel body with a stainless steel faceplate makes it look great, and its portable size means you can take it anywhere. Whether you’re camping, at a tailgate party, or just having a backyard barbecue, this griddle is ready to go.
What We Like:
- It is very portable and compact, making it easy to carry to any event.
- You can cook a wide variety of foods on it, from burgers and pancakes to veggies.
- It offers a surprising amount of cooking space, enough for up to 14 burgers.
- Two burners let you control the heat in different spots, so you can cook different things at once.
- The grease management system makes cleanup much easier.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s good for small groups, it might not be big enough for very large gatherings.
- The powder coating could potentially scratch over time with heavy use.
This Blackstone griddle is a versatile and user-friendly option for anyone who loves outdoor cooking. It makes preparing delicious meals easy and fun, no matter where you are.
2. Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle – 9.5 x 16.75 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cooking Surface – Flat & Ribbed Sides – Use on Stove
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with the Lodge Reversible Cast Iron Grill/Griddle. This powerhouse piece of cookware is designed for versatility and durability, making it a must-have for any kitchen, backyard barbecue, or camping trip. Its generous size fits perfectly over two stovetop burners, giving you plenty of room to whip up delicious meals.
What We Like:
- It’s completely PFAS-free and non-toxic, so you can cook with confidence.
- You get two cooking surfaces in one: a smooth griddle for pancakes and eggs, and a ribbed grill side for juicy burgers and chicken.
- This griddle works everywhere – on your stove, in the oven, on the grill, and even over a campfire.
- It’s made in the USA by a family-owned company that’s been making quality cast iron since 1896.
- The heavy-duty construction means it’s built to last for generations.
- The pre-seasoned surface makes it ready to use right out of the box.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cast iron can be heavy, so it might be a bit of a workout to move around.
- It requires proper care to prevent rust and maintain its seasoning.
This Lodge grill/griddle is a fantastic investment for anyone who loves to cook. Its versatility and quality make it a standout product for creating memorable meals.
3. Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle with Cover
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for delicious outdoor meals with the Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle! This black griddle is perfect for camping, tailgating, or just cooking in your backyard. It’s easy to move and store, making it super convenient for all your adventures. Just hook it up to a 20 lb. propane tank, and you’re ready to grill!
What We Like:
- It’s portable and easy to store, making it great for taking anywhere.
- A tough PVC cover is included to keep your griddle protected from the weather.
- The large 319 sq. in. cooking surface can cook up to 15 patties at once.
- Three burners provide 25,500 BTUs of heat for fast cooking.
- Starting the grill is a breeze with the push-button igniter.
- Cleaning up is simple thanks to a removable grease cup and a detachable griddle top.
What Could Be Improved:
- The propane tank is not included, so you’ll need to buy that separately.
This Royal Gourmet griddle makes outdoor cooking fun and easy. Its great features and easy cleanup make it a top pick for any grilling enthusiast.
4. Blackstone 1971 Original 17” Tabletop Griddle with Stainless Steel Front Plate
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready for delicious meals anywhere with the Blackstone 1971 Original 17” Tabletop Griddle. This griddle is your new best friend for outdoor adventures. It’s super easy to carry, making it perfect for camping, hunting, or even just a backyard cookout. You can cook up tasty food for your whole crew, up to 4 people, on its generous 267 square inches of cooking space. Plus, it’s designed to be simple to use and clean, so you can spend more time enjoying your food and less time fussing with the grill.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for taking on trips.
- The 267 square inches of cooking space is surprisingly big for its size.
- It heats up evenly thanks to a powerful 12,500 BTU H-style burner.
- Starting it up is a breeze with the push-and-turn Piezo ignition.
- Cleaning up grease is much simpler with the special rear grease management system.
- The stainless steel front plate adds a nice touch and is easy to wipe down.
- Sturdy, non-slip feet keep it steady while you cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- While portable, it still requires a propane tank, which needs to be carried separately.
- The 17-inch size might be a little small for very large gatherings.
This Blackstone tabletop griddle is a fantastic option for anyone who loves to cook outdoors. It combines portability with great cooking power and user-friendly features, making it a winner for your next adventure.
5. Pit Boss 10960 2-Burner Tabletop Griddle
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready for delicious outdoor cooking with the Pit Boss 10960 2-Burner Tabletop Griddle in sleek black. This compact griddle packs a punch, offering a generous 265 square inches of cooking space. It’s perfect for everything from breakfast to burgers, making it a fantastic addition to your backyard or camping adventures.
What We Like:
- It’s lightweight and easy to carry, so you can take it anywhere.
- You get a free custom-fit cover to protect your griddle.
- Two stainless steel burners let you cook different foods at different temperatures.
- The griddle surface is 3mm thick for even heating.
- Starting it up is simple with the push-and-turn ignition.
- The EZ Access grease trap makes cleanup a breeze.
- Adjustable legs help you level the griddle on any surface.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 18,000 BTU might be a bit low for some cooks who need very high heat.
- While lightweight, it can still be a bit bulky to store in very small spaces.
This Pit Boss griddle is a solid choice for anyone wanting portable, versatile outdoor cooking. You’ll love the convenience and the tasty results it delivers.
Your Guide to the Perfect Camping Griddle
Camping trips are more fun with delicious food. A camping griddle can help you cook many yummy meals outside. This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy a camping griddle, check these things:
Size Matters
- Cooking Surface: How big is the flat part where you cook? A bigger surface lets you cook more food at once. This is good for families or groups.
- Portability: How easy is it to carry? Some griddles fold up small. Others are lighter. Think about how you will travel to your campsite.
Heat Control
- Even Heating: Does the griddle get hot all over? You don’t want cold spots. Even heat means your food cooks the same.
- Adjustable Heat: Can you change how hot the griddle gets? This helps you cook different foods perfectly. Some griddles have knobs to control the flame.
Fuel Type
- Propane: Many griddles use propane tanks. They are easy to find and use.
- Charcoal: Some griddles work with charcoal. This gives food a smoky flavor.
- Electric: You can find electric griddles if you have a power source at your campsite.
Important Materials
What a griddle is made of affects how it cooks and how long it lasts.
Cooking Surface Materials
- Cast Iron: This is a strong metal. Cast iron heats up evenly. It also holds heat well. Cast iron needs to be seasoned (oiled and heated) to prevent rust.
- Steel: Steel is also strong. Some steel griddles are coated to make them non-stick.
- Chrome-Plated Steel: This is a common material. It’s usually easy to clean.
Griddle Body and Frame
- Stainless Steel: This metal is strong and won’t rust easily. It makes the griddle last longer.
- Powder-Coated Steel: This coating protects the metal. It can help prevent scratches.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a griddle better, and others can make it worse.
Quality Boosters
- Sturdy Legs: Legs that are strong and stable keep the griddle from tipping over.
- Wind Guards: These help block the wind. This keeps the flame steady and the griddle hot.
- Drip Tray: A tray to catch grease is very helpful. It makes cleaning much easier.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Metal: Griddles made with thin metal can bend or warp when heated.
- Poor Welds: Badly joined parts can break easily.
- Cheap Burners: Burners that don’t work well can make cooking difficult.
User Experience and Use Cases
How does it feel to use a camping griddle? What can you cook?
Easy Setup and Cleaning
- A good griddle is easy to set up at your campsite.
- Cleaning should not be a big chore. A non-stick surface or a good drip tray helps a lot.
Versatile Cooking
- Breakfast: Cook pancakes, eggs, and bacon.
- Lunch: Make burgers, grilled cheese, or quesadillas.
- Dinner: Grill steaks, chicken, or stir-fry vegetables.
- You can cook almost anything on a griddle!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of camping griddle for beginners?
A: For beginners, a propane griddle with a medium-sized cooking surface is a great choice. They are easy to use and clean.
Q: Do I need to season a camping griddle?
A: If your griddle is made of cast iron, yes, you need to season it. This protects it from rust and makes it non-stick.
Q: How do I clean a camping griddle?
A: Let the griddle cool down. Use a scraper to remove food bits. Wipe it with a damp cloth. For cast iron, reapply oil after cleaning.
Q: Can I use a camping griddle in the rain?
A: Yes, but it’s best to use a griddle with wind guards or a cover. Rain can make it harder to keep the heat steady.
Q: What are the most popular brands for camping griddles?
A: Popular brands include Blackstone, Camp Chef, and Coleman. Many people like these brands for their quality.
Q: How much does a good camping griddle cost?
A: Prices can range from $50 to $200 or more. It depends on the size, features, and materials.
Q: Can I cook fish on a camping griddle?
A: Yes, fish cooks very well on a griddle. Make sure the surface is clean and lightly oiled.
Q: Are griddles better than camp stoves?
A: Griddles are great for flat-top cooking. Camp stoves are better for pots and pans. Many campers use both!
Q: How do I store my camping griddle?
A: Clean it thoroughly and make sure it’s dry. Store it in a dry place, perhaps with a cover, to protect it.
Q: Can I use metal utensils on any camping griddle?
A: You can use metal utensils on cast iron and some steel griddles. For griddles with non-stick coatings, it’s better to use wood or silicone to avoid scratching.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!