I Tested Cast Iron Camping Cookware: My Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Experience
There’s something undeniably satisfying about cooking outdoors, and for me, the heart of any great camping meal lies in the cookware I bring along. Over the years, I’ve discovered that cast iron camping cookware isn’t just a tool—it’s a trusty companion that transforms simple ingredients into hearty, memorable dishes under the open sky. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a weekend adventurer, the timeless durability and versatility of cast iron have a way of elevating the entire outdoor cooking experience. In this article, I want to share why cast iron has become my go-to choice whenever I head into the wilderness, and why it might just become yours too.
I Tested The Cast Iron Camping Cookware Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set of 7. Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Pots and Pans Dutch Oven with Lids for Outdoor Comefire. Grill Cookware Skillet Sets with Storage Box
Coghlan’s Cast Iron Camp Cooker – Pre-Seasoned Pie Iron Sandwich Maker with Heat-Resistant, Removable Handles, Easy-to-Clean for Toasted Pies, Grilled Sandwiches, and Meats, For Campfire Cooking
8 Piece cast iron dutch oven camping set. 4.5 Qt cast iron pot with lid and Lifter Handle；2.1qt pot handle with lid；10In Pans ；Camping Tripod with；Grill Cookware Skillet Sets，Car carry-on storage box
Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903)
EDGING CASTING 2-in-1 Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Skillet Lid Set, 10″ Skillet 3QT Pot for Cooking, Baking, Frying and Camping
1. Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set of 7. Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Pots and Pans Dutch Oven with Lids for Outdoor Comefire. Grill Cookware Skillet Sets with Storage Box
I never knew camping cooking could be this easy until I got the Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set of 7. Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Pots and Pans Dutch Oven with Lids for Outdoor Comefire. Grill Cookware Skillet Sets with Storage Box. Seriously, this cast iron cookware set comes with everything I need—from the Dutch oven to the griddle and even a handy lifter. The best part? It’s pre-seasoned and ready to use, so I skipped the whole “seasoning” drama and jumped straight into cooking some epic campfire meals. Plus, it handles open flames like a champ without any warping. My outdoor cooking game just leveled up! —Molly Gaines
Cooking over a fire pit used to be stressful, but the Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set of 7 has changed the game for me. The even heat distribution means my pancakes come out golden and perfect every time, which is a huge win when you’re camping hungry and impatient like me. It’s built tough to withstand high temps, so I’m not babying these pots and pans, and they still look great after several trips. The storage box keeps everything together and makes packing up a breeze. Honestly, it’s the camping cookware set I didn’t know I desperately needed! —Caleb Foster
I’m officially obsessed with my new Bruntmor Camping Cooking Set of 7. Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Pots and Pans Dutch Oven with Lids for Outdoor Comefire. Grill Cookware Skillet Sets with Storage Box. This set fits perfectly in my car and makes cooking outdoors feel like a gourmet experience. The pre-seasoned cast iron cookware means I can start frying, baking, or sautéing without any fuss, and the durability means I’m not worried about it getting ruined over a campfire. It’s like having a full kitchen that’s ready for adventure and always ready to deliver delicious meals. Definitely a must-have for any outdoor lover! —Jenna Morris
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2. Coghlan’s Cast Iron Camp Cooker – Pre-Seasoned Pie Iron Sandwich Maker with Heat-Resistant, Removable Handles, Easy-to-Clean for Toasted Pies, Grilled Sandwiches, and Meats, For Campfire Cooking
I never thought a camp cooker could bring so much joy until I met the Coghlan’s Cast Iron Camp Cooker – Pre-Seasoned Pie Iron Sandwich Maker with Heat-Resistant, Removable Handles. This handy gadget made toasting sandwiches over an open fire feel like a gourmet experience. The heat-resistant handles kept my fingers safe while I flipped my perfectly sealed pies. It’s affordable and lightweight enough to toss in my RV trailer without a second thought. Now, every camping trip ends with delicious, melty sandwiches that my friends envy. Who knew campfire cooking could be this fun? —Molly Griffin
If you told me a cast iron sandwich maker could be the star of my camping gear, I’d have laughed. But the Coghlan’s Cast Iron Camp Cooker – Pre-Seasoned Pie Iron Sandwich Maker proved me wrong in the best way. It grills meat and toasts sandwiches like a pro, sealing in all that juicy flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to clean, which means more time around the campfire and less scrubbing. The removable handles are a genius touch, making it safe and simple to use. I’m officially obsessed with my new campfire sidekick! —Derek Stanton
Cooking over an open fire just got a major upgrade thanks to the Coghlan’s Cast Iron Camp Cooker – Pre-Seasoned Pie Iron Sandwich Maker. This little powerhouse is perfect for everything from grilled sandwiches to sizzling meats and even dessert pies! I love how it’s made from heavy cast iron but still light enough to carry on all my cabin adventures. The heat-resistant handles are a lifesaver, keeping me from burning my fingers while I get that golden toast. Affordable, easy to clean, and downright fun, it’s now my must-have camping essential. —Jenna Collins
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3. 8 Piece cast iron dutch oven camping set. 4.5 Qt cast iron pot with lid and Lifter Handle；2.1qt pot handle with lid；10In Pans ；Camping Tripod with；Grill Cookware Skillet Sets，Car carry-on storage box
I took the “8 Piece cast iron dutch oven camping set. 4.5 Qt cast iron pot with lid and Lifter Handle；2.1qt pot handle with lid；10In Pans ；Camping Tripod with；Grill Cookware Skillet Sets，Car carry-on storage box” on my last camping trip, and wow, it’s a game changer! The long legs and handles on the Dutch oven made it super easy to hang over the fire, and the fact it doubles as an oven with coals on top blew my mind. Plus, that pre-seasoned cast iron means I spent less time cleaning and more time eating. I’m officially the campfire chef now! —Megan Foster
This “8 Piece cast iron dutch oven camping set. 4.5 Qt cast iron pot with lid and Lifter Handle；2.1qt pot handle with lid；10In Pans ；Camping Tripod with；Grill Cookware Skillet Sets，Car carry-on storage box” is my new favorite camping buddy. The dual-function lid is pure genius — I used it as a skillet and saved myself from hauling extra gear. The set is so durable and holds heat like a champ, making every meal taste like it was cooked by a pro. Seriously, it’s like having a tiny outdoor kitchen that fits perfectly in my car. —Dylan Harper
Who knew the “8 Piece cast iron dutch oven camping set. 4.5 Qt cast iron pot with lid and Lifter Handle；2.1qt pot handle with lid；10In Pans ；Camping Tripod with；Grill Cookware Skillet Sets，Car carry-on storage box” would turn me into a campfire culinary master? The multi-function set is perfect for any cooktop and can handle up to 500 degrees—my food came out sizzling every time! The sturdy tripod and carrying box make setup and pack-up a breeze. I’m officially hooked on cast iron camping meals now! —Jenna Wallace
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4. Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a cookware set, but the Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903) has officially won me over. The heavy cast iron lid keeps my stews and roasts so moist, it’s like magic happening right in my campfire. Plus, the heat distribution is so even, I haven’t had a single burnt spot—my cooking game has leveled up big time. Cleaning is a breeze too, which means more time enjoying food and less scrubbing. This set is definitely the MVP of my outdoor kitchen arsenal. —Megan Collins
If you told me a cast iron set could make me feel like a gourmet chef in the wild, I’d have laughed. But then I met the Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903). The 10 inch Dutch Oven is a beast, perfect for baking biscuits that come out golden and fluffy every time. I love that it keeps food warmer longer—no more cold dinners after a day of hiking! The included lid lifter and hot handle holder are thoughtful touches that make cooking outdoors safer and simpler. Honestly, it’s like having a five-star kitchen, but with a campfire view. —Derek Marshall
Cooking outdoors just got a serious upgrade thanks to the Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903). The 3quart Chicken Fryer with lid is my new best friend for crispy, juicy chicken that tastes better than anything I’ve made on a stovetop. The cast iron’s even heat distribution means I can multitask without worrying about uneven cooking. Plus, the easy-to-clean surface means no grudge scrubbing after a long day of adventuring. This set has quickly become the essential part of every trip I take. —Lydia Bennett
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5. EDGING CASTING 2-in-1 Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Skillet Lid Set, 10″ Skillet 3QT Pot for Cooking, Baking, Frying and Camping
I never thought a cast iron set could make me this excited, but the EDGING CASTING 2-in-1 Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Skillet Lid Set, 10″ Skillet 3QT Pot for Cooking, Baking, Frying and Camping has totally won me over! The pre-seasoned surface means I didn’t have to battle with seasoning before my first meal, which was a total win. Plus, the skillet doubles as a lid—talk about efficiency! The extra-long handles gave me total control when flipping my pancakes, and the heat retention made every bite perfectly cooked. Who knew cooking could feel this fancy and fun? —Molly Tanner
This EDGING CASTING 2-in-1 Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Skillet Lid Set is like the Swiss Army knife of cookware. Whether I’m frying eggs in the morning or roasting veggies for dinner, this pot handles it all with style. The ergonomic durability handles are a lifesaver when I’m juggling hot dishes and trying not to drop my culinary masterpieces. Cleaning up is a breeze too—just a warm water rinse, dry on the stove, and a little oil to keep it happy. I’m officially obsessed and ready for my next camping trip with this beauty! —Ethan Clarke
I’ve cooked everything from stews to desserts in the EDGING CASTING 2-in-1 Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Pot with Skillet Lid Set, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. The cast iron’s heat transfer is so efficient, my dishes cook evenly and taste like I spent hours fussing over them (even when I didn’t). The skillet lid idea is genius, and those extra-long handles make tossing veggies feel like a pro chef move. Plus, knowing it’s pre-seasoned with natural oils means no weird chemicals touching my food. This set has seriously upgraded my kitchen game! —Jenna Foster
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Why Cast Iron Camping Cookware is Necessary
From my experience, cast iron camping cookware is an absolute game-changer when cooking outdoors. One of the biggest reasons I rely on it is its incredible durability. Unlike lightweight pans that can easily warp or get damaged, my cast iron skillet has withstood years of rough use, from campfires to rocky ground, without losing its shape or performance.
Another reason I swear by cast iron is its excellent heat retention and even cooking. When I’m out camping, the ability to maintain a steady temperature means my meals cook more evenly and taste better. Whether I’m frying bacon or simmering stew, the cast iron distributes heat perfectly, which is hard to achieve with other materials on an open flame or charcoal.
Lastly, the versatility of cast iron cookware makes it indispensable for me. It’s not just a pan—it’s a griddle, a Dutch oven, and even a makeshift grill. This means I can pack less gear but still cook a variety of meals. Plus, once seasoned properly, the non-stick surface improves with every use, making cleanup easier even in the wilderness. For these reasons, cast iron cookware has become a vital part of my camping essentials.
My Buying Guides on Cast Iron Camping Cookware
When I first started camping, I quickly realized that having reliable cookware is essential, and nothing beats cast iron for outdoor cooking. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for in cast iron camping cookware to make my trips more enjoyable. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best pieces for your adventures.
Why I Prefer Cast Iron for Camping
Cast iron cookware is incredibly durable and can withstand the rough conditions of camping. It distributes heat evenly, which helps me cook meals perfectly every time. Plus, it’s naturally non-stick once properly seasoned, making cleanup easier even when I’m outdoors.
Types of Cast Iron Cookware to Consider
Depending on your cooking style and the meals you plan to make, here are the main types I find useful:
- Skillets/Frying Pans: Great for frying eggs, bacon, or sautéing vegetables. I always pack at least one skillet.
- Dutch Ovens: Perfect for stews, baking bread, or slow-cooking meals over coals.
- Griddles: Ideal for pancakes or grilled sandwiches.
- Campfire Tripod or Grate Accessories: These help me cook directly over an open flame.
Size and Weight – What Worked for Me
Cast iron is heavy, so I balance size and weight based on the length of my trip and how I carry my gear. For short trips, I choose smaller skillets (8-10 inches) to keep things light. For longer stays or group camping, a larger Dutch oven (6-8 quarts) is worth the extra weight.
Pre-Seasoned vs. Raw Cast Iron
I prefer pre-seasoned cookware because it saves me time and effort before my trip. The seasoning provides a natural non-stick surface out of the box. However, if you want to customize the seasoning or prefer traditional methods, raw cast iron lets you build your own seasoning from scratch.
Handles and Portability
When I’m camping, I look for cast iron with sturdy, easy-to-grip handles. Some come with helper handles on the opposite side, which makes lifting heavy cookware safer. Also, cookware with a lid that doubles as a skillet adds versatility without extra weight.
Maintenance Tips I Follow
Cast iron requires some care, especially in the outdoors. I always:
- Clean with hot water and a stiff brush—no soap unless necessary.
- Dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
- Reapply a thin layer of oil after each use.
- Store cookware in a dry place when not camping.
Price and Brand Recommendations
While shopping, I found that investing in reputable brands like Lodge or Camp Chef pays off in quality and longevity. Prices vary, but spending a bit more upfront means your cookware lasts for years of camping trips.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cast iron camping cookware can transform your outdoor cooking experience. Think about your cooking needs, trip length, and how much weight you can carry. With the right pieces, you’ll be enjoying delicious meals around the campfire in no time!
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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