Fall is a magical time for camping. The crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cool evenings around the fire create the perfect setting for outdoor cooking. Whether you’re RVing or pitching a tent at one of our retreat locations, having a few easy and delicious campfire recipes on hand can make all the difference.

In this post, we’re sharing three must-try campfire recipes that are perfect for the fall season. Each recipe uses simple ingredients, requires minimal equipment, and is sure to keep everyone warm and satisfied after a day of outdoor adventure. So, pack up your ingredients, grab your cast iron skillet, and get ready to enjoy some cozy meals by the campfire!

Why Campfire Cooking in Fall is Special

Cooking over an open flame is an integral part of the camping experience, but in the fall, it takes on a whole new charm. The cool, crisp weather makes it even more rewarding to enjoy a hot meal by the fire. Plus, fall ingredients like pumpkins, apples, and hearty root vegetables add seasonal flavor to your dishes.

Campfire cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, some of the best campfire recipes are those that stick to the basics—delicious, wholesome ingredients cooked over a flame.

So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to campfire cooking, these three recipes will become your go-to for fall camping trips.

1. Hearty Campfire Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 4 medium potatoes, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Optional: fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Fire: Get your campfire going and let it burn down until you have a bed of hot coals. Place a cast iron pot or Dutch oven over the coals.
2. Brown the Meat: Add a little olive oil to the pot and sauté the diced onion and garlic. Once softened, add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned.
3. Add Vegetables: Toss in the chopped potatoes, carrots, and any other veggies you like (mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.). Stir them around to coat them in the oil and meat juices.
4. Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes: Add the canned tomatoes and broth, then season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cover the pot.
5. Cook Over Low Heat: Allow the stew to simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
6. Serve: Top with fresh herbs if available. Serve with a chunk of bread for dipping!

Why It’s Perfect for Fall:

This stew is warm, filling, and full of flavor. It’s ideal for those chilly fall nights around the campfire, and the hearty ingredients will give you the energy you need after a long day outdoors.

2. Campfire Grilled Cheese with Apple and Cheddar

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough works great!)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• Cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer slices of cheddar cheese and thinly sliced apples. If you like, spread a little Dijon mustard on one side of the bread for an extra kick of flavor.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top (buttered side facing out).
3. Cook Over the Fire: Heat a cast iron skillet over your campfire coals. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. If you want to add a fall touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on the apple slices before grilling.
4. Serve Hot: Serve your grilled cheese immediately with a side of chips or a warm cup of soup.

Why It’s Perfect for Fall:

This isn’t your average grilled cheese! The combination of tart apples, sharp cheddar, and warm cinnamon makes it an ideal fall comfort food. It’s quick to prepare, easy to cook over a fire, and packed with flavor.

3. Campfire S’mores with a Twist

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of large marshmallows
• 1 bar of dark chocolate (or milk chocolate if you prefer)
• Graham crackers
• Peanut butter cups (optional)
• 1 banana, sliced
• Aluminum foil

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your S’mores: Break your graham crackers into squares. On one side, place a piece of chocolate (or a peanut butter cup). On the other, add a slice of banana for a twist on the classic s’mores recipe.
2. Toast the Marshmallows: Skewer a marshmallow and roast it over the fire until it’s golden and gooey.
3. Assemble the S’more: Once the marshmallow is toasted, place it between the two graham crackers with the chocolate and banana. Press the sandwich together until the chocolate melts.
4. Wrap in Foil for Extra Melt: For an extra melty s’more, wrap your creation in aluminum foil and place it near the edge of the fire for about 1 minute.
5. Enjoy the Twist: You’ll get all the classic gooey goodness of a traditional s’more, but with the added flavor of banana and peanut butter cups!

Why It’s Perfect for Fall:

Nothing says “campfire” quite like s’mores, but this twist makes it extra special. The bananas add a natural sweetness, and the option to add peanut butter gives it a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with crisp fall evenings.

Campfire Cooking Tips for Fall

While campfire cooking can be a fun and easy experience, it’s always helpful to keep a few tips in mind:

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Make your camping trip smoother by prepping your ingredients before you leave. Chop vegetables, shred cheese, and pre-mix seasonings at home so you can focus on cooking and relaxing at camp.
• Control the Heat: The key to campfire cooking is managing the heat. Use a combination of coals and flames to control how fast your food cooks. Coals provide steady, even heat, which is perfect for slow-cooking stews or grilling sandwiches.
• Use Cast Iron: Cast iron pans and Dutch ovens are perfect for campfire cooking because they distribute heat evenly and can withstand the open flame.
• Safety First: Always keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby when cooking over an open fire, and make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving your campsite.

Fall camping is all about enjoying the outdoors, cozying up around a fire, and, of course, indulging in delicious campfire meals. These three recipes—Hearty Campfire Stew, Grilled Cheese with Apple and Cheddar, and a twist on traditional S’mores—are guaranteed to elevate your fall camping experience. So next time you’re at one of our campgrounds, bring along these recipes and enjoy some comforting meals under the stars.

Happy camping and cooking!