Our team has been boiling and sautéing up a storm in our outdoor kitchens to bring you our list of the best camping stoves. We’ve cooked hundreds of breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and desserts on more than 30 camping stoves over the last nine years to help you find the perfect model for your next adventure. When it comes to precision heating, efficient burners, and long-term durability, we’re confident you’ll find your new favorite cooktop in this guide.
Key Takeaways
- The Camp Chef Everest 2X is a powerhouse stove with great flame control.
- The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp is highly portable and perfect for on-the-go meals.
- The Coleman 1900 Collection 3-in-1 Stove is versatile, offering grilling, griddle, and stove options.
- The Camp Chef Mountaineer is ideal for large groups due to its robust cooking capabilities.
- The Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove is a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.
Camp Chef Everest 2X
The Camp Chef Everest 2X is a fresh take on Camp Chef’s classic, award-winning stove. This time around, Camp Chef upped the ante, making a beefier cousin to the original model. It has a larger cook surface, a nearly seamless windscreen, and excellent simmer ability, despite having an impressive 20,000 BTUs per burner. They even improved upon the previously flimsy latches. With a fast boil time and functional Piezo auto-igniter, this stove is sure to impress even the most discerning camp chefs.
Key Features
- 20,000 BTUs per burner: Boil water faster than you could on your stove at home.
- 215 square inches of cooking space: Accommodates two full-sized pots or pans at the same time.
- Fold-out side walls and raised lid: Reliably block the wind and keep things cooking even in poor weather conditions.
- Piezo auto-igniter: Fires up with the twist of a knob.
Ease of Use
The Everest 2X is a top-notch stove that’s easy to use and care for – a true champion in the camping stove world. The stove fires up with the twist of a knob, making it incredibly user-friendly.
Customer Reviews
It has a nice finish and the stainless steel makes cleaning of the stove very easy as advertised. The lid is not made from a very heavy gauge steel though, so handle with care.
Conclusion
The Camp Chef Everest 2X is equally great at sautéing a quick meal, boiling a kettle of water, or making a small feast for you and your whole crew. If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful camping stove, this one should be at the top of your list.
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp
The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System is one of the most portable and space-saving cooking kits on the market. If you’re a space-minded camper who wants some of the coolest new technology available for outdoor cooking, stop scrolling here.
Compact & Efficient All-In-One Cooking System
The Genesis Basecamp is in a class of its own when it comes to low weight and a small stored size. The two burners fold together into a lightweight, rugged metal pod that nests inside a pot for compact storage. Along with a frying pan, windscreen, lid, and regulator, it all packs away into a travel bag no bigger than a bowling ball.
Key Features
- Weight: 9.2 pounds (whole system)
- BTUs: 10,000 per burner
- Time to Boil: 3 minutes, 16 seconds
- Packed Size: 10.3 x 10.3 x 7.2 inches
- Cooking Space: 20.5 x 9.8 inches
- Included: Pot and pan
- Jetlink Compatibility: Yes
- MSRP: $400
Pros
- Stove folds in on itself for maximum durability
- Fast boil and low simmer
Cons
- Price
- Flimsy and low-quality windscreen
If you’re like us, you’ll enjoy keeping The Campfire burning long after you’ve finished your meal for entertainment, warmth, and that relaxing orange glow of a fire. We love gathering around it to warm our hands and watch the mesmerizing flames.
Coleman 1900 Collection 3-in-1 Stove
If you’re a fan of cast iron, or simply want an all-in-one option that performs well in every category, the 3-in-1 is one of the best camping stoves you can buy. This stove has an old-school classic style with the technology of one of today’s top camping stoves. The Coleman 1900 Collection 3-in-1 is equipped with a cast iron grate and comes with two cast iron griddle and grill accessories.
Key Features
- Weight: 26.18 pounds with attachments
- BTU Output: 24,000 BTUs
- Time to Boil 1L: 4 minutes, 51 seconds
- Packed Size: 8.25 x 25.75 x 15.25 inches
- Cooking Space: 19.5 x 9.5 inches
- Material: Cast-iron grate and flat top/grill plates
- MSRP: $230
Pros
- Durable stove with a classic design
- Heavy-duty latch
- Cast iron elements are sturdy and versatile
Cons
- Lower windscreens than other Colemans
- Cast-iron features make stove very heavy
- Not ideal for larger groups
Hybrid stoves like the 3-in-1 generally lag behind straight-ahead camp stoves in popularity, but can be an excellent way to divide up cooking space for a number of dishes.
Camp Chef Mountaineer
The aluminum Camp Chef Mountaineer is a durable camping stove tailored for committed outdoor chefs due to its capacity for multiple cast irons, large pots, and a baking tray. This stove boasts the same high-power versatility as the Everest. Its robust construction feels durable, and it has the same wind guard, stove locks, and twist instant ignition as the Everest. The Mountaineer is large and sturdy for group camping trips where you need to maximize cooking space.
Cooking with the Mountaineer is a blast. It feels far more like cooking in my kitchen, or with a traditional gas range, than any camp stove I’ve ever used. From seared ribeyes and soft eggs to delicate fish frys and blistered vegetables—if you can cook it on a burner, the Mountaineer can keep up. And after all that, the Mountaineer, with its simple, all-metal design, is especially easy to clean: All you need is some soap and a hose.
The bombproof Mountaineer made camp cooking as easy as cooking in our home kitchen.
Pros
- High-power versatility
- Durable construction
- Easy to clean
- Ideal for group camping
Cons
- Higher price
- Adapter needed to run 1 lb. propane bottles
Best For
The Mountaineer is ideal as an overlanding, river rafting, and base camping stove, and the Mountaineer is a perfect option for those who cook outdoors often—and seriously.
Price
| Store | Price |
|---|---|
| REI | $390 |
| Lowe’s | $390 |
Upgrade Pick: The Camp Chef Mountaineer is the best stove for gourmet camp cooking due to its solid construction and powerful output. It may be heavier and more expensive than other models, but it allows you to cook like you’re at home.
Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove
The Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove ($100) might not have all the fancy features of the others on the list, but it’s hands down the most bang for your buck out of all camp stoves on the market. The windscreens do the job, and the flame pattern can be set from a simmer to a roar. It weighs just under 12 pounds, which isn’t much more than most more expensive options.
Coleman also adds some small “upgrades” to this model, among them a piezo electric ignition. It’s a nice addition, but not something we give much weight since this component tends to break over time. Coleman produces an entire Cascade line: the Cascade 222, the Cascade Classic, and the Cascade 328. The Cascade Classic isn’t much different from the Coleman Classic. The Cascade 328 adds a third burner—and a lot more bulk. The 328 might be a consideration for a larger family.
At such a low price, we consider this model an essential part of any car camping setup, especially for families and couples that want a solid camping stove to do it all.
Primus Kinjia Camping Stove
The Primus Kinjia Camping Stove is a compact yet powerful addition to your camping gear. It’s perfect for those who want a capable stove without needing to renovate their campsite. With a sleek design featuring black, brass, and wood details, it not only performs well but also looks classy in any camp kitchen.
Specifications
- Number of Burners: Two
- BTU Output: 10,200 BTUs per burner
- Boil Time: 6:40 min. per liter
- Fuel Type: Propane
- Weight: 8 lbs., 3.2 oz.
Pros
- Compact packed size slides into tight storage spots
- Fine simmer control
- Classy look with black, brass, and wood details
Cons
- No windscreens
- Gas bottle stand is easy to misplace
Small but powerful — the Primus Kinjia Camping Stove brings a light footprint to your camp kitchen and is perfect for those who want a capable stove but don’t want to renovate their campsite in the process.
iKamper Disco Series Camping Grill
The iKamper Disco Series Camping Grill is a standout in the world of camping stoves. This uber-modular cooking system is perfect for van life, overlanding, or simply gathering around with friends. With a price tag of $490, it’s on the pricier side, but its versatility and durability make it worth every penny.
Features
- Modular Design: The iKamper Disco allows you to switch between griddles, grates, and pots, making it incredibly versatile for different cooking needs.
- High BTU Output: With an impressive 8,455 BTU, this stove ensures you can cook meals quickly and efficiently.
- Durability: Built to last, this stove is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Pros
- Versatile and modular
- High BTU output
- Durable construction
Cons
- On the heavier side
- Pricey
If car-based adventuring is your jam, you’re going to need a camping stove that’s dialed in for the task. And while we’ve tried many, none have made an impression more than the iKamper Disco Series Stove.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $490 |
| BTU | 8,455 |
| Boil Time | 7:00 min. per L |
| Fuel Type | Iso-butane |
| Weight | 27 lbs. |
This stove is perfect for campers who want a reliable and versatile cooking system. Whether you’re cooking for a small group or a larger family, the iKamper Disco Series Camping Grill has you covered.
Eureka SPRK+ Camp Stove
The Eureka SPRK+ Camp Stove is a fantastic single-burner option for those who enjoy the simplicity of outdoor cooking. This stove is a slightly enhanced version of the original SPRK Camp Stove, offering an impressive 11,500 BTUs compared to the standard 10,000 BTUs. This increase in power makes it more than capable of heating up even the heaviest cast iron pans, allowing you to easily stir-fry veggies or cook steaks.
Performance
While the SPRK+ excels in many areas, it does have some drawbacks. One notable issue is its wind performance. Like many lightweight camp stoves, it lacks a windscreen, which can be problematic in blustery conditions. However, for simple meals or just boiling water, it remains an excellent option.
Fuel Type
The SPRK+ uses butane fuel, which is not as easily sourced as propane. Despite this, the stove’s performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile choice for many campers.
Comparison
Here’s a quick comparison of the Eureka SPRK+ with other popular camping stoves:
| Stove | Price | Burners | BTUs | Boil Time (per L) | Fuel Type | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eureka SPRK+ | $70 | One | 11,500 | 4:50 min | Butane | 5 lbs., 2.4 oz |
| Snow Peak Home & Camp Burner | $120 | One | 8,455 | 7:00 min | Iso-butane | 27 lbs. |
| Camp Chef Explorer 14 | $150 | Two | 30,000 per burner | 2:50 min | Propane | 30 lbs., 8 oz |
Durability
The SPRK+ is built to last, with a sturdiness that inspires confidence. While it may not be as packable as some other single burners, its robust construction ensures it will hold up well over time.
For simple meals for one or just boiling some water, the Eureka SPRK+ is an excellent option.
Conclusion
In summary, the Eureka SPRK+ Camp Stove is a reliable and powerful single-burner stove that is perfect for solo campers or those who need a compact cooking solution. Its high BTU output and sturdy build make it a standout choice, despite some minor drawbacks like wind performance and fuel availability.
Camp Chef Explorer 14
The Camp Chef Explorer 14 is a powerhouse when it comes to outdoor cooking. With its massive, powerful burners and a huge cooking area, no recipes are off-limits. You can bring your biggest stock pot or sauté pan from home and cook up a feast. The stove features height-adjustable legs, freeing up your camp table space.
Key Features
- Generous Cooking Surface: The Explorer 14 sports a full 14 x 32 inches cooking surface, perfect for large pots and pans.
- High Heat Output: The two burners put out a cumulative 60,000 BTUs, making it the highest of any stove we tested.
- Customizable Accessories: Camp Chef offers a wide variety of accessories like a side table, grill cover, carrying bag, and a wide griddle for cooking multiple items at once.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impressive heat output
- Large cooking area can accommodate multiple stock pots
- Many add-on cooking surfaces
Cons:
- Quite heavy
- Non-adjustable legs
Customer Reviews
“This is perfect for our camping needs. Easy to assemble. Not too heavy. We are using it camping and we are using it outside on our porch at home.”
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Burners | Two |
| BTU Output | 30,000 BTUs per burner |
| Boil Time | 2:50 min. per L |
| Fuel Type | Propane |
| Weight | 30 lbs., 8 oz. |
The Camp Chef Explorer 14 is not lightweight by any means, making it the cookout battle station of choice for anyone looking to feed a lot of people. The twin burners are fueled by a propane canister, making it best suited for close-to-the-vehicle cooking setups. Despite its size and weight, the Explorer 14 is a versatile and powerful option for outdoor cooking.
Eureka Ignite Plus
The Eureka Ignite Plus is a fantastic choice for those who need a bit more cooking room while camping. With its extra-wide cooking area, this stove is perfect for families and large groups who love to cook throughout the day. The nuanced heat control and spacious burner design make it easy to prepare meals without feeling cramped.
Key Features
- BTUs: 10,000 per burner
- Weight: 12 lb.
- Price: $160
- Auto Ignition: Yes
- Fuel Efficiency: High
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value
- Powerful burners
- Durable construction
- Large cooking area
- Auto ignition
- Highly adjustable burners
Cons:
- A bit heavier than some other models
- Small windscreens
- Auto igniter doesn’t always work
Unique Features
One of the most novel features of the Ignite Plus is its capability to be chained to other Eureka or Jetboil stove systems using the JetLink hose system. This allows you to connect separate burners and run them from one propane source, which is ideal for basecamp situations or when you want to whip up a meal to feed an entire family.
The Ignite Plus has proven to be highly durable, with little to no lapse in function after extended use, making it one of the best camping stoves for the price.
If you love everything about the Ignite but need a bit more cooking room, the Ignite Plus is a solid choice. For those who want a more compact version, consider the smaller Eureka Ignite.
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Conclusion
After extensive testing and countless meals cooked in the great outdoors, our team is thrilled to share our top picks for the best camping stoves of 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, having the right stove can make all the difference in your outdoor culinary adventures. From the versatile Camp Chef Everest 2X to the ultra-portable Jetboil Genesis Basecamp, there’s a perfect stove for every type of camper. Remember, a good camping stove is an investment in delicious meals and memorable experiences. So gear up, get cooking, and enjoy every moment of your outdoor escapades!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing a camping stove?
When choosing a camping stove, consider factors such as fuel type, weight, size, number of burners, and ease of use. Additionally, think about the type of cooking you’ll be doing and the number of people you’ll be cooking for.
How do I maintain and clean my camping stove?
To maintain and clean your camping stove, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, you should clean the burners and surfaces after each use, check for any blockages, and store the stove in a dry place to prevent rust.
Can I use a camping stove in windy conditions?
Yes, many camping stoves are designed to be used in windy conditions. Look for stoves with built-in wind screens or consider purchasing an additional wind screen to ensure efficient cooking in windy environments.
What type of fuel is best for camping stoves?
The best type of fuel for your camping stove depends on your specific needs. Common options include propane, butane, and liquid fuel. Propane is widely available and easy to use, while liquid fuel is more efficient in cold weather.
Are there any safety tips for using a camping stove?
Yes, always use your camping stove in a well-ventilated area, keep flammable materials away from the stove, and never leave it unattended while in use. Additionally, follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and regularly check for leaks or damage.
Can I use regular cookware on a camping stove?
Yes, you can use regular cookware on a camping stove, but it’s recommended to use camping-specific cookware as it is typically more durable, lightweight, and designed to withstand outdoor conditions.
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