The 7 Best Camping Stoves of 2024

Today, I’m going to show you our picks for the best camping stove, whether you prefer quick and simple meals or elaborate gourmet dinners.

Dive right into our reviews of the best camping stoves for our top recommendations – including our Best Overall, the Camp Chef Everest 2X High Output.

No one wants to crawl into their sleeping bag hungry – and that’s why a camp stove is so critical to the enjoyment of your next camping trip!

Our Top Picks

Best Overall 
Camp Chef Everest 2X High Output

Most Powerful
Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner

Best Portable
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp

Best Overall
Camp Chef Everest 2X High Output

The Camp Chef Everest 2x is one of the best camping stoves, consistently outperforming its competition. Its two-burner design and spacious cooktop provide ample cooking space, yet it remains compact for easy transport. With 20,000 BTUs per burner, precise temperature control, a built-in windscreen, and a piezo ignitor, it offers exceptional performance. Its only drawback is its limited suitability for niche camping needs.

Most Powerful
Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner

The Camp Chef Explorer is a top freestanding camping stove, ideal for large groups and RV campers. While heavy at over 30 pounds, its powerful 30,000 BTU burners provide quick boiling and precise simmering. It struggles in windy conditions and requires an adapter hose for use with large propane tanks.

Best Portable
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp

The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp offers excellent performance and a compact design, standing out as one of the best camp stoves. It features a large cooking surface in a portable package without compromising performance. While it comes at a higher price point and is somewhat affected by wind, its overall usability and cooking efficiency make it a top choice.

Best Single Burner
Coleman Butane Instastart

The Coleman Butane Instastart is a budget-friendly camping stove suitable for car camping. Its simple, one-burner design is lightweight and compact, but not ideal for backpacking. With 7,650 BTUs, it’s not very powerful but is adequate for simmering. Running on butane, it’s more fuel-efficient than propane but struggles in cold weather and windy conditions.

Best 3-Burner
Stansport Outfitter Series 3-Burner

The Stansport Outfitter Series 3-Burner is a versatile tabletop stove that combines elements of the Coleman Classic and Camp Chef Everest. It features two main burners with 25,000 BTUs each and a third burner with 5,500 BTUs for superior cooking power and flame control. Despite a slightly inferior build quality compared to top models, it offers excellent wind resistance, easy transport, and simple cleanup, making it a top choice for camping.

Buyer’s Guide for Best Camping Stoves

Before purchasing a camping stove, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you get the right one for your needs.

1. Freestanding vs. Tabletop: Decide whether you need a freestanding stove with built-in legs or a tabletop model. Freestanding stoves are sturdy and offer more cooking space, while tabletop stoves are lighter and more portable.
2. Number of Burners: Most stoves come with two burners, which are sufficient for cooking a variety of meals. However, if you often cook for large groups or prepare complex dishes, a three-burner stove may be more suitable.
3. Heating Power (BTUs): The heating power of a stove is measured in BTUs, with higher BTUs indicating more cooking power. Consider how quickly you need to cook and whether you need a stove with higher BTUs for faster cooking.
4. Fuel Efficiency: Fuel efficiency is important, especially for longer camping trips. Consider the type of fuel the stove uses and how efficiently it burns fuel, especially in cold weather conditions.
5. Fuel Capacity: Most camping stoves use 16-ounce propane bottles as fuel. However, some stoves can be used with larger propane tanks for extended use. Consider your fuel needs based on the length of your trip and the availability of fuel.
6. Heat Adjustability: Look for a stove with good heat adjustability, allowing you to control the flame and cook at different temperatures. This is especially important for simmering and cooking delicate foods.
7. Wind Resistance: Cooking in windy conditions can be challenging, so look for a stove with built-in windscreens or other features that help protect the flame from wind. This can improve fuel efficiency and cooking performance in windy conditions.
8. Ignition Type: Many camping stoves come with auto ignition, which is convenient for lighting the stove. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a backup ignition source, such as matches or a lighter, in case the auto ignition fails.
9. Size & Weight: Consider the size and weight of the stove, especially if you plan to transport it frequently. A compact and lightweight stove is easier to carry and store, but make sure it still offers enough cooking power for your needs.