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The 5 Best Camping Grills for 2024

When it comes to a half-day or even a day hike, chances are you prepped your food ahead of time so as not to have to cook on the road: sandwiches, fruit, chips, finger food, and more. But when summer vacation hits and you start planning your multi-day camping perhaps even at a rustic or completely unserviced campsite-you’re going to want the best camping grill ever to ensure hot, delicious meals. Portable camping grills are a great cooking companion to bring along even when traveling with an RV!

Read on to find out more about camping grills, and our list of the best camping grills on the market.

Best Camping Grill

Our Top Picks

Best Overall
Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill

Best Charcoal Fuel
Weber Smokey Joe Premium 14″ Charcoal Grill

Budget Option
Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill

Best Grill for the Serious Camp Chef
Camp Chef Big Gas Grill 3


Best Overall

Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill

Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill, Black

This 30-pound Weber propane camping grill is our number one pick overall because of its quality and reputation, along with a lot of other people’s, too. Just take a look at its thousands of phenomenal reviews! 

Pros

  • Porcelain-enameled grill
  • Electronic ignition
  • Folding side tables
  • Easy cleanup with removable catch pan
  • Made in the USA

Cons

  • Small cooking surface

Best Charcoal Grill

Weber Smokey Joe Premium 14″ Charcoal Grill

Weber Smokey Joe Premium 14-Inch Portable Grill , Black

If you’re looking for that smokey taste, then this Weber charcoal grill is the best choice for you. Perfect for camping, outdoor eating, and even tailgating, the only downside is that you’ll have to bring charcoal along.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Can cook around five burgers at a time
  •  Dampers allow for temperature control, which is one of the hardest parts of charcoal grilling

Cons

  • Charcoal takes longer to start and cleanup
  • Stand is short

Budget Option

Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill

Char-Broil Portable 240 Liquid Propane Gas Grill

If you’re looking for a good quality tabletop gas camping grill without breaking the bank, then you should seriously consider this Char-Broil gas grill as the best camping grill for you. With an easy cleanup and handles for easy carrying, it’s the best of all worlds!

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Great reviews
  • Lid-mounted temperature gauge
  • Carrying handles for easy transportation

Cons

  • Short legs-requires tabletop

For the Serious Camp Chef

Camp Chef Big Gas Grill 3

Camp Chef Big Gas Grill, 3 Burner Stove, Professional BBQ Grill Box (BB90L), Cooking Dimensions: 16 in x 38 in

Preparing to do some outdoor cooking for a large group of people? A tabletop grill is not going to cut it. What you need is the Camp Chef Big Gas Grill 3 with over 600 square inches of cooking space which actually functions as both a grill and a stove!

Pros

  • Foldable side shelf
  • Heat diffusion technology
  • Large cooking surface
  • Aluminum and stainless steel construction
  • Matchless ignition system

Cons

  • Heavy-49 pounds
  • Takes up more space than traditional camping grills.

FIRESIDE OUTDOOR Trailblazer Fire Pit and Grill

Campfire Defender Protect Preserve Trailblazer - Leave No Trace Portable Camp Stove/Fire Pit | 3 lbs Total Weight | 12" x 12" Never Rust Design

Not sure if your campsite destination has firepits or not? Then this charcoal Trailblazer grill is the best camping grill for you! Super versatile, it can function as either a fire pit or a barbecue grill, depending on what you desire at that moment!

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Collapsible and comes with a bag for easy carrying
  • Aluminum and stainless steel construction
  • Lightweight-just three pounds!
  • Produces 80% less smoke than most fire pits

Cons

  • Charcoal requires cleanup
  • Hard to control the temperature

Buyer’s Guide

Now that you’ve looked through my list of best camping grills out there, it’s time to make up your own mind! Here are some things you should consider while making your decision about the best camping grill for you and your family:

  • Flavor: Determine if you prefer the smoky barbecue taste of a charcoal grill or the convenience of a gas grill.
  • Heat: Look for a camping grill that provides 60 to 100 BTU per square inch for thorough cooking without burning.
  • Space: Consider the size of your car and camping gear when choosing a grill that fits in your trunk or on someone’s lap. Check if the campsite has picnic tables for tabletop grills or opt for a grill with legs.
  • Quality: Research materials, durability, and sturdiness to ensure the grill can withstand outdoor use.
  • Features: Prioritize features like sturdy legs, quick ignition, lightweight design, or LED-lit controls based on your preferences.
  • Cost: Set a budget and research grills that offer the best value for money to avoid overspending.
  • Warranty: Choose a grill with a warranty for repair or replacement in case of damage.
  • Portability: Consider how often you’ll use the grill and how far you’ll carry it between the car and campsite.
  • Group size: Select a grill with a larger cooking surface if you plan to cook for a big group to accommodate everyone’s meals simultaneously.
Best Camping Grill

Wrapping Up the Best Camping Grills

I hope this post has inspired you to be intentional in your decision about the best camping grill for you! My number one choice remains the Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill because of its high quality, a great reputation, and beautiful colors.

Check out the rest of our website to find more guidance on deciding what camping gear to purchase for your next camping trip!