The Best Camping BBQ: Essential Tips for a Delicious Menu

When it comes to choosing the best camping BBQ, the answer is as varied as the outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy it. This guide will help you determine the best method for your next camping adventure, whether you're in a remote wilderness or at an improved campsite with amenities.

Wilderness Camping: Grilling Over Coals

For most wilderness camping sites, the simplest and most traditional method involves grilling over coals. This technique allows you to cook directly over the heat, delivering delicious meals with a smoker flavor as well. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:

Setting Up Your Grill

Lay a heavy metal rack over the coals on some rocks to ensure stability. Preheat the coals by adding good firewood or charcoal and blowing them to ignite. Use tongs to move the coals around and distribute the heat evenly under the grill.

Butcher-Champion Grilling

For meats like steaks or skin-on chicken halves, place the food directly on the coals for that perfect char and smokiness. Here’s what you need to do:

Ensure the coals are hot by spreading them out in a single layer. Position your meat directly on the coals, making sure it’s not too close to the embers. Cook according to the meat's size, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Improvised BBQ Cover

If you want to enhance the smokiness, consider making a 'Bar-B-Q cover' with aluminum foil. Here’s how:

Lay an aluminum sheet over the grill, creating a sealed environment. Place coals to the side under the foil to create an enclosed smoky environ. Keep some reserve coals in a small pit to replenish the smokiness as needed.

Improved Camping Sites: Utilizing Resources

For improved camping sites with provided BBQ pits or tables, the setup is much simpler, but there are still a few tips to keep in mind:

Effortless Dinner Cooking

Take advantage of picnic tables and BBQ pits by using the provided equipment. For vegetables and side dishes, bring a 2-burner camp stove and set it up on the table. Remember to arrange your cooking tools, such as utensils and skewers, for easy access.

Lighting Setup

A good lighting source is essential for safe and convenient cooking at night. Consider bringing a lantern-type light to illuminate the cooking and eating areas.

The best camping BBQ is one that suits your skills, preferences, and site conditions. Whether you’re grilling over coals in the wilderness or cooking on a designated BBQ pit, the key is to enjoy the process and the delicious results. Happy camping and grilling!