Vibrant outdoor cooking scene with large pots over open flame, showcasing traditional Açores methods.

“Cooking is at once child’s play and adult joy. And cooking done with care is an act of love.”

Craig Claiborne

Here are five must-have campfire cooking tools that bring ease, safety, and flavor to your outdoor experience.

1. Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle

A heavy-duty cast iron skillet or flat griddle is a true campfire classic. It holds heat evenly and can handle everything from pancakes in the morning to sizzling sausages at sundown. With its rugged construction and timeless utility, cast iron thrives over an open flame.

From browning potatoes to searing salmon fillets, the versatility is unmatched. A skillet with high sides helps contain juices, while a griddle offers more surface area for batch cooking. Whether you’re flipping cornbread cakes or sautéing garden veggies, you’ll taste the fire-kissed magic in every bite.

Pre-season your cast iron and pack a cloth to wipe it clean after use. It only gets better with age.

2. Long-Handled Tongs and Spatula

Working over an open flame requires some reach. Long-handled tongs and a sturdy metal spatula let you move hot food or adjust logs safely, keeping your hands comfortably distant from the heat. Look for tools with heat-resistant grips for added comfort.

Tongs are especially handy for turning thick cuts of meat or repositioning foil packets. A well-made spatula helps you slide under burgers, flip delicate fish, or press sandwiches right on the grate. Choose stainless steel over wood for durability, and opt for longer handles to reduce the risk of burns.

Invest in tongs with a locking mechanism and a spatula with a beveled edge. These features make flipping and grabbing much easier around uneven coals.

3. Roasting Forks or Skewers

For marshmallows, hot dogs, and anything else that deserves a turn over the fire, telescoping roasting forks are your go-to. Stainless steel options with insulated handles are easy to pack and clean.

These tools add an interactive charm to any campfire gathering. Kids love them, adults swear by them, and there’s something oddly satisfying about watching your marshmallow turn golden just the way you like it. Skewers also work beautifully for kebabs with alternating meats and vegetables, creating a balanced, smoky treat.

Bring a variety so everyone can toast at once, avoiding long waits and keeping the fun moving.

4. Grill Grate or Campfire Tripod

A portable grill grate turns your fire pit into a proper cooking station. Simply place it over hot coals for grilling vegetables, meats, or even foil-wrapped meals. A campfire tripod offers a bit more control by suspending pots or Dutch ovens above the heat.

A grate delivers direct heat and those crave-worthy grill marks. A tripod, on the other hand, brings a rustic, old-world feel to your setup. With adjustable chains, you can raise or lower your pot depending on the flame. Both tools give you room to be creative—try breakfast hash, a simmering chili, or grilled peaches for dessert.

Choose a grate with foldable legs for portability, or a tripod with a pulley system so you can fine-tune your cooking height on the fly.

5. Dutch Oven

When it comes to campfire versatility, nothing beats a Dutch oven. From stews and baked beans to cobblers and cornbread, this lidded wonder lets you cook hearty, comforting meals right in the coals. It’s a true game changer for campfire chefs.

Its thick walls and tight-fitting lid create an oven-like environment, ideal for baking or slow-simmering recipes. With the ability to hold heat for hours, you can make everything from braised short ribs to gooey cinnamon rolls. A Dutch oven brings warmth and abundance to any fireside table.

Line the inside with parchment or foil for easy cleanup, and don’t forget lid lifters or gloves to safely handle hot cast iron.

With the right tools and some seasoned firewood, you’re all set to turn your campfire into a full-on feast, rich with flavor, warmth, and good company.

Need to stock up on firewood for your next cookout? Browse our directory of local firewood delivery and suppliers to get started. Want to list your service? Submit a business here.