Skip the traditional dinner party and take your entertaining outside with these unforgettable campfire classics.
(Photo: Getty/AleksandarNakic)
Published November 3, 2026 03:30AM
At the end of a long day, there’s nothing like sitting by the campfire, watching the flames dance and hearing the wood crackle (as long as the fire’s made safely and legally, of course). The only way to make it better is savoring a Michelin-star-worthy meal while sitting fireside. When preparing your menu, it’s easy to opt for a go-to hot dogs and s’mores combo, but there are so many more delicious meals out there. With these revolutionary campfire recipes, you won’t want to settle for anything less than all-plates-scraped-clean delicious. All you need is a burning campfire and a rumbling stomach.
Campfire Recipes: Breakfast
Bacon and Eggs From A Paper Bag
This hearty combo tastes even better in the woods than it does at the diner. Whip it up over a campfire, and you’ll not only impress your buddies—you’ll have a no-pot meal with zero cleanup (eat right out of the bag!).
Cinnamon Granola-Stuffed Pears
Got a relaxed morning? Make this tasty combination of sweet pears and crunchy granola.
Potato Pancakes
Drizzle these fluffy pancakes with maple syrup for breakfast or top with chives and sour cream for a savory dinner.
Warm Apple Crescents
“Just like Mom used to make,” says our editor of this simple, not-too-sweet pastry that’s perfect for breakfast or a healthy dessert.
Campfire Recipes: Dinner
Lemon-Herb Trout
A few simple spices elevate your already-delicious, fresh-caught trout to sublime, says Charlie Borrowman, Washington-based cooking instructor.
Pepperoni Pizza Logs
Pizza at camp? We’re in. This prep-ahead pie is an easy crowd-pleaser.
Gnocchi with Sage
With fresh, handmade pasta in your repertoire, you can go as far out as you want without ever leaving behind the taste of a home-cooked meal.
No-Dishes-Needed Chorizo and Couscous Dolmas
Spice up this classic Turkish dish with shelf-stable Spanish chorizo, roasted right on your campsite coals. Best part? Eat straight out of a zucchini, so there are no dishes to clean.
Fire-Roasted Chile Relleno Burritos
Prep these at home for a delicious first-night treat with south-of-the-border flavors.
Grilled King Salmon with Porcini Mushrooms
Take your fireside fish skills to the next level with this savory salmon recipe.
Campfire Recipes: Dessert
Apple Pie on a Stick
Apple pie is a classic flavor for a reason. The mixture of ripe apple and warm spices (cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger) work as well on warm summer nights as on chilly fall ones.
Cheesy S’mores
Hear us out on this one. All Backpacker editors have an opinion on what cheese works best in a s’more (mine is a Dubliner cheese). Try it out and find out for yourself.
Backcountry Tiramisu
This camping-friendly take on a classic Italian confection is so good, you’ll probably dream about it.
No-Cook Banana Split Sundae
Craving ice cream? This take on a frozen classic is the next best thing.
No-Mess Bourbon Bread Pudding
This decadent treat is a welcome change from typical backcountry desserts, and requires almost no clean-up.
Marshmallow Butterscotch Cones
Throwing a campsite party? This treat satisfies any sweet tooth. Tip: In place of the English toffee bits, you can use four chopped 1.4-ounce chocolate-covered toffee bars (or plain toffee). Don’t overfill your cones or they won’t melt properly.
Sweet Potato Pizza Pie
To turn this Thanksgiving staple into a portable treat, use a combo of graham crackers, instant sweet potatoes, marshmallows, and fall spices. The result delivers all the flavor you love in a outdoor-friendly package.
