Camping Meals for All Seasons: 12 Campfire Recipes To Try This Year

Cooking a meal over a campfire adds a richness of flavor that’s impossible to replicate indoors. No matter the meal or the season, fresh air and a beautiful natural setting make everything taste better. Don’t believe it? Test it for yourself by trying one of these 12 campfire recipes each month for a year.

January: Skillet Cinnamon Roll S’mores 

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a campfire meal. These Skillet Cinnamon Roll S’mores combine gooey marshmallows, chocolate, and warm cinnamon rolls for the ultimate cold-weather treat! 

Ingredients:



• 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
  
  
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
  
  
• ½ cup milk chocolate chips
  
  
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:



1. Heat your Coals: Let your campfire or grill burn down until the flames die down, but the coals are still glowing hot.
   
   
2. Layer the Skillet: Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased cast-iron skillet, leaving a little space between them. Sprinkle chocolate chips and mini marshmallows in the gaps.
   
   
3. Bake: Bake the skillet until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and the marshmallows are gooey.
   
   
4. Drizzle with Icing: Remove from the oven and drizzle the cinnamon roll icing on top. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
   
   
5. Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm, and imagine yourself around a campfire under the stars.
   
   

Pro Tip: Pair with a mug of hot cocoa or coffee for the ultimate winter treat!

February: Campfire Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Nachos

Looking for the perfect treat for a romantic glamping trip for two? These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Nachos combine all the cozy camping vibes with the classic romantic flavors. Pair with a little wine under the stars, and you have everything you need for a romantic Valentine’s Day weekend.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag cinnamon-sugar pita chips or graham crackers
  
  
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  
  
• ½ cup milk or dark chocolate chips
  
  
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
  
  

Whipped cream or marshmallow fluff for topping

Instructions:



1. Layer the Nachos: Spread the cinnamon-sugar pita chips or graham crackers on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish. Scatter sliced strawberries on top.
   
   
2. Add the Chocolate: Sprinkle both milk/dark chocolate chips and white chocolate chips over the top for extra decadence.
   
   
3. Melt & Bake: Place in a skillet on hot coals until the chocolate is melted and gooey.
   
   
4. Top & Serve: Drizzle with whipped cream or marshmallow fluff and serve warm. Perfect for sharing with your camping crew (or keeping all to yourself)!
   
   

Pro Tip: Add some crushed graham crackers or nuts for extra crunch and campfire flavor!

March: Lucky S’mores Snack Mix

March means that spring is just around the corner! To celebrate the warming weather, whip up this Lucky S’mores Snack Mix—a fun, no-bake treat. Perfect for snacking on an early-season hike or munching around the campfire.

Ingredients:



• 2 cups Golden Grahams cereal
  
  
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
  
  
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
  
  
• 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
  
  
• ½ cup green M&M’s or chocolate candies
  
  
• ½ cup pretzel sticks (for a salty crunch)
  
  

Optional: Lucky Charms marshmallows for a festive St. Patrick’s Day touch!

Instructions:

1. Mix it Up: In a large bowl, combine Golden Grahams, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, pretzels, and M&M’s.
   
   
2. Melt & Drizzle: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Drizzle over the mix and gently toss.
   
   
3. Let it Set: Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined tray and let it set for 10-15 minutes (or place it in the fridge to speed up the process).
   
   
4. Enjoy! Break apart and dig in—whether you’re snacking at home or packing it up for your first camping trip of the year!
   
   

Pro Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week!

April: Springtime Campfire Breakfast Bowls

Spring is finally here! What’s a better way to kick off your mornings at the campsite than with these Springtime Campfire Breakfast Bowls?  These hearty, customizable meals are perfect for fueling your next outdoor adventure.

Ingredients (Serves 2-4):



• 4 medium potatoes, diced
  
  
• 1 small onion, chopped
  
  
• ½ bell pepper, diced (choose your favorite color!)
  
  
• 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, crumbled
  
  
• 4 eggs
  
  
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or your favorite)
  
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  
  
• Salt & pepper to taste
  
  

Optional toppings: diced avocado, hot sauce, fresh herbs

Instructions:



1. Prep Your Fire: Get a nice campfire going and set up a cast-iron skillet or a heat-safe griddle over the flames.
   
   
2. Cook the Potatoes: Add olive oil or butter to the skillet, then toss in the diced potatoes. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
   
   
3. Add Veggies & Meat: Stir in the onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Then, mix in the cooked sausage or bacon.
   
   
4. Crack the Eggs: Make small wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each one. Cover the skillet with foil or a lid and let it cook until the eggs reach your preferred doneness.
   
   
5. Cheese It Up: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt.
   
   
6. Serve & Enjoy: Add your favorite toppings and dig in while enjoying the fresh spring air!
   
   

Pro Tip: Wrap individual servings in foil for an easy grab-and-go breakfast while exploring the trails!

May: Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Skewers

Once April Showers have cleared away, it’s time to enjoy the warm weather of May. These Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Skewers taste like the coming summer. Packed with sweet and tangy flavors, they’re a delicious way to kick off camping season.

Ingredients (Serves 4):



• 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
  
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  
• ¼ cup honey
  
  
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  
  
• 1 tsp lime zest
  
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
  
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional for a little kick!)
  
  
• Salt & pepper to taste
  
  
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  
  
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
  
  
• 1 zucchini, sliced
  
  

Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions:



1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra flavor!).
   
   
2. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and zucchini onto the soaked wooden skewers.
   
   
3. Grill Over the Fire: Place the skewers over a campfire grill grate or on a hot grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
   
   
4. Serve & Enjoy: Drizzle with extra honey and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor. Pair with a side of grilled corn or campfire potatoes!
   
   

Pro Tip: Make the marinade ahead of time and pack it in a sealed container for easy campsite cooking!

June: Campfire Pizza

Camping is fun for the whole family, but it can be hard to find time to squeeze in a family camping trip during the year. So, to celebrate the end of the school year, let’s make something the kids will love– a campfire pizza! 

Ingredients:



• Pie dough (premade)

• Pizza sauce of your choice

• Cheese of your choice

• Toppings of your choice (meats should be precooked!)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan: Oil a flat-bottomed cast-iron skillet or pan. 
2. Prepare the crust: Spread your pizza dough on the bottom of the pan. Place the pan on the fire and cook until the bottom has browned.
3. Flip the crust: Remove the pan from the fire and flip the crust in the pan so the browned side is facing up.
4. Build your pizza: Spread your pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings on the pizza crust.
5. Bake Your Pizza: Bake your pizza until the bottom is browned.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove pizza from the fire and let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tip: Use a Dutch oven and roll the dough up the sides slightly if you like a deeper crust!

July: Red, White & Blueberry Campfire Cobbler

Nothing says July like warm summer nights, campfires, and a little red, white, and blue! Embrace summer with this easy & delicious Campfire Cobbler, featuring fresh berries and a golden, buttery topping– perfect for sharing with those you love. 

Ingredients (Serves 6-8):

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
  
  
• 1 cup blueberries
  
  
• 1 cup raspberries
  
  
• ½ cup sugar
  
  
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  
  
• 1 tsp cinnamon
  
  
• 1 box yellow cake mix
  
  
• 1 stick (½ cup) butter, melted
  
  
• 1 can lemon-lime soda (about 12 oz)
  

Instructions:



1. Prepare the Berries: In a cast-iron skillet or foil-lined Dutch oven, mix strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
   
   
2. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit. Do not stir!
   
   
3. Pour & Butter It Up: Slowly pour the lemon-lime soda over the top, making sure to moisten all the cake mix. Drizzle melted butter on top for a golden, crispy finish.
   
   
4. Cook Over the Fire: Cover with foil and place over the campfire (or on a grill grate) for 30-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the berries are bubbling.
   
   
5. Serve & Enjoy: Let cool slightly, then serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!
   
   

Pro Tip: Want an extra crunch? Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or granola on top before serving!

August: Grilled BBQ Ranch Corn on the Cob

Summer is almost gone, but there’s still time to enjoy the season before school starts again.  This sweet, smoky, BBQ Ranch Corn on the Cob is packed with flavor and the perfect side dish for your final summer campsite feast.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):



• 6 ears of fresh corn, husked
  
  
• ¼ cup butter, melted
  
  
• ¼ cup ranch dressing
  
  
• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
  
  
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
  
  
• ½ tsp garlic powder
  
  
• Salt & pepper to taste
  
  
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  
  

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

Instructions:



1. Prepare the Corn: Husk the corn and remove the silk.
   
   
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   
   
3. Grill It Up: Brush the sauce mixture generously over the corn and wrap each ear in foil.
   
   
4. Cook Over the Fire: Place wrapped corn directly over hot coals or on a grill grate for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
   
   
5. Finish & Serve: Unwrap, sprinkle with shredded cheese and fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy!
   
   

Pro Tip: For extra smoky flavor, skip the foil and grill the corn directly over the flames, turning frequently!

September: Campfire Apple Crisp Foil Packets

Imagine enjoying a cool September evening than with a gooey apple crisp made right over the campfire?  Sweet, spicy, and oh so warm, this easy recipe is perfect for your next autumn camping trip!

Ingredients:



• 2 apples (any variety), peeled and sliced
  
  
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
  
  
• 1 tsp cinnamon
  
  
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
  
  
• ¼ cup rolled oats
  
  
• ¼ cup flour
  
  
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
  
  
• 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  
  

Pinch of salt

Instructions:



1. Prep the Apples: Toss apple slices in a bowl with 1 tbsp of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
   
   
2. Make the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, the remaining brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt until crumbly. Stir in nuts for an extra crunch!
   
   
3. Assemble the Packets: Lay out a large piece of foil. Place a portion of apples in the center, then sprinkle the crisp topping generously over the apples.
   
   
4. Seal It Up: Fold the foil over the apples and crimp the edges to seal the packet. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped.
   
   
5. Cook: Place the foil packet on the campfire grill or in the embers. Cook for 15-20 minutes, rotating occasionally until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
   
   
6. Enjoy: Carefully open your packet (watch out for steam!) and dig into your delicious campfire apple crisp. Perfect for those crisp September nights!
   
   

Pro Tip: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you have access to a cooler!

October: Pumpkin Spice S’mores

Is it even October if you don’t have at least one pumpkin-spice treat? We don’t think so. Next time you find yourself sitting around a cozy fall campfire, treat yourself to this classic treat with a seasonal twist!

Ingredients:

• Graham crackers
  
  
• Pumpkin spice marshmallows (or regular marshmallows + 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice)
  
  
• Milk chocolate squares
  
  
• White chocolate squares



• Optional: Spread a little pumpkin butter or Nutella for extra flavor!
  

Instructions:



1. Toast Your Marshmallow: Roast your marshmallow over the campfire until it’s golden and gooey.
   
   
2. Assemble Your S’more: Place a piece of chocolate on one graham cracker, top with your toasted marshmallow, and add the other graham cracker on top.
   
   
3. Optional Twist: For extra pumpkin flavor, add a thin layer of pumpkin butter or Nutella to your graham crackers before assembling.
   
   
4. Enjoy: Indulge in the warm, spicy, and sweet goodness of fall in every bite!
   
   

Pro Tip: If you can’t find pumpkin spice marshmallows, sprinkle regular marshmallows with pumpkin pie spice before roasting. It’s the perfect way to capture those October vibes.

November: Cranberry-Orange Campfire Cobbler

As the days get cooler, warm up with this delicious Cranberry-Orange Campfire Cobbler—a perfect dessert with a hint of holiday flavor! It’s simple to make right over the fire and captures the cozy taste of late autumn.

Ingredients:



• 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough
  
  
• 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce
  
  
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (optional, for extra tartness)
  
  
• ½ cup orange juice
  
  
• Zest of one orange
  
  
• 2 tbsp sugar
  
  
• 1 tsp cinnamon
  
  
• Heavy-duty foil or a cast-iron skillet

Instructions:



1. Prep the Cranberry Mixture: In a bowl, mix cranberry sauce, fresh cranberries (if desired), orange juice, orange zest, sugar, and cinnamon.
   
   
2. Assemble the Cobbler: Line your cast-iron skillet or foil packet with half of the cranberry mixture. Place biscuit dough pieces on top, then layer the remaining cranberry mixture over the biscuits.
   
   
3. Cook Over the Campfire: Wrap the foil packet tightly, or cover the skillet, and place it over hot campfire coals. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until biscuits are fluffy and cooked through.
   
   
4. Serve Warm: Carefully remove the cobbler from the fire, let it cool for a few minutes, and enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors of this festive dessert!
   
   

Pro Tip: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling fancy!

December: Peppermint Hot Cocoa S’mores Dip 



Even if it’s too chilly for an outdoor campfire, you can still enjoy the cozy essence of camping indoors with this Peppermint Hot Cocoa S’mores Dip. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and perfect for glamping or holiday gatherings!

Ingredients:



• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
  
  
• ½ cup white chocolate chips
  
  
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
  
  
• ¼ tsp peppermint extract (optional)
  
  
• Crushed candy canes (for garnish)
  
  

Graham crackers, cookies, or fruit for dipping

Instructions:

1. Layer the Chocolate: In a fire-safe dish, layer milk and white chocolate chips. Add a few drops of peppermint extract for extra holiday flavor.
   
   
2. Add Marshmallows: Cover the chocolate with mini marshmallows, spreading them evenly.
   
   
3. Bake or Broil: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the chocolate is melted. Watch closely to avoid burning!
   
   
4. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top and serve immediately with graham crackers or your favorite dippers.
   
   

Pro Tip: Use holiday-themed cookies like gingerbread men for dipping to make it even more festive!

Cook with Us at Hartman Center Campground:

If you’re looking for the perfect place to try these delicious camping treats, come stay with us at Hartman Center Campground! Located near State College, PA, Hartman Center is open all year round, so you can camp and glamp in any weather. 

Whether you like cozy, luxury cabins, rustic tent sites, or homey RVs, Hartman Center has accommodations that fit your taste. The best part? Every site has a fire ring, so you can cook these delicious camping recipes when you book today!

About the author



Amanda Orban is a local teacher and campground manager in Pennsylvania. In her free time, she loves nothing more than pitching a tent under the stars, hitting scenic trails, and cheering on the Nittany Lions at Penn State.