Camping with kids is a blast, but let’s be real – feeding them outdoors can be a challenge. As a parent who’s weathered my fair share of campsite meltdowns (both food-related and otherwise), I’ve figured out the hard way that packing the right camping meals for kids can be the difference between an awesome family camping trip and a total disaster.
Over the years, I’ve collected a bunch of kid-approved recipes that are easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for outdoor adventures. From quick breakfasts to keep them energized, to dinners that’ll have them asking for seconds, I’ve got you covered.
So grab your cooler and camping stove – we’re about to turn your next family trip into a delicious outdoor feast!
Breakfast Ideas to Start the Day Right
Fuel your kids’ adventurous spirits with these hearty and fun breakfast options.
1. Pancake Kebabs
Kids love pancakes, but mini pancakes on a stick? That’s a breakfast they’ll never forget!
- Ingredients:
- Pancake batter (prepared at home and stored in a squeeze bottle)
- Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and banana slices
- Skewers
- Instructions:
- Heat a griddle on your camp stove.
- Squeeze small dollops of pancake batter onto the griddle to make mini pancakes.
- Once cooked, thread the pancakes and fruit alternately onto skewers.
Tip: Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
2. Campfire Breakfast Burritos
A handheld breakfast that’s both filling and fun to make.
- Ingredients:
- Tortillas
- Scrambled eggs (prep the eggs at home in a sealable bag)
- Shredded cheese
- Pre-cooked sausage or bacon bits
- Foil sheets
- Instructions:
- Lay out a tortilla on a foil sheet.
- Add a scoop of scrambled eggs, some cheese, and meat.
- Wrap the tortilla tightly, then wrap it in foil.
- Place over campfire coals or on a grill for 5-10 minutes.
Tip: Let the kids customize their burritos with their favorite fillings.
3. Overnight Oats Jars
A no-cook option that’s ready when you wake up.
- Ingredients:
- Rolled oats
- Milk or yogurt
- Honey or maple syrup
- Toppings: nuts, dried fruits, chocolate chips
- Instructions:
- In a plastic jar, combine oats and milk/yogurt in a 1:1 ratio.
- Stir in sweeteners and toppings.
- Seal the jar and let it sit overnight in a cooler.
Tip: Use reusable silicone jars to reduce waste.
Lunch Ideas for Energized Play
Keep lunchtime exciting with these interactive and tasty meals.
4. DIY Sandwich Stations
Turn lunch into a creative activity.
- Ingredients:
- Variety of breads (sliced bread, rolls, pita pockets)
- Deli meats (turkey, ham, chicken)
- Cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, swiss)
- Veggies (lettuce, tomato slices, cucumber)
- Condiments (mustard, mayo, ketchup)
- Instructions:
- Lay out all ingredients on a picnic table.
- Provide plates and let kids assemble their own sandwiches.
Tip: Encourage them to try new combinations or create funny faces with the ingredients.
5. Campfire Pizzas
Because who doesn’t love pizza, especially when it’s cooked over a campfire?
- Ingredients:
- Pre-made pizza crusts, pita bread, or naan
- Pizza sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings (pepperoni, veggies, olives)
- Instructions:
- Spread pizza sauce over the crust.
- Add cheese and toppings.
- Place on a grill rack over the fire or wrap in foil.
- Cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet if you have one for an even cook.
6. Veggie Wraps with Hummus
A light and healthy option that’s quick to assemble.
- Ingredients:
- Large tortillas
- Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- Sliced veggies (bell peppers, carrots, lettuce, sprouts)
- Instructions:
- Spread a generous layer of hummus on the tortilla.
- Add a handful of sliced veggies.
- Roll tightly and slice in half.
Tip: Offer different hummus flavors like roasted red pepper or garlic for variety.
Dinner Delights to End the Day
Wind down with these hearty meals that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
7. Foil Packet Nachos
A campfire twist on a classic favorite.
- Ingredients:
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese
- Black beans
- Diced tomatoes
- Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole
- Instructions:
- Layer tortilla chips on a large piece of foil.
- Sprinkle cheese, beans, and tomatoes over the chips.
- Fold the foil into a packet, sealing the edges.
- Place over campfire coals for 10-15 minutes.
Tip: Open carefully and let it cool slightly before eating.
8. Campfire Mac and Cheese
Comfort food that’s easy to prepare outdoors.
- Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni (cooked al dente at home)
- Cheese sauce or shredded cheddar
- Milk
- Foil pans or cast-iron skillet
- Instructions:
- In your foil pan, combine cooked macaroni, cheese, and a splash of milk.
- Stir to mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover with foil and place over the fire for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tip: Add breadcrumbs or bacon bits on top for extra flavor.
9. Grilled Hot Dog Twists
A fun spin on the classic hot dog.
- Ingredients:
- Hot dogs
- Crescent roll dough or biscuit dough
- Skewers
- Instructions:
- Insert a skewer through each hot dog lengthwise.
- Wrap dough around the hot dog in a spiral.
- Cook over the campfire until the dough is golden brown.
Tip: Serve with ketchup and mustard for dipping.
10. One-Pot Spaghetti
Less mess without sacrificing taste.
- Ingredients:
- Spaghetti noodles
- Ground beef or turkey
- Pasta sauce
- Water
- Optional: chopped onions, garlic, Italian seasoning
- Instructions:
- In a large pot, brown the meat with onions and garlic.
- Add pasta sauce, noodles, and enough water to cover the noodles.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer until noodles are cooked, stirring occasionally.
Tip: Break noodles in half to fit them in the pot and make serving easier.
Snacks and Desserts for Happy Campers
Sweet treats and snacks to keep the energy levels high and smiles wide.
11. Trail Mix Bar
Personalize snack time with this interactive idea.
- Ingredients:
- Base options: various nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
- Add-ins: dried fruits (raisins, cranberries), chocolate chips, yogurt-covered raisins, pretzels, cereal pieces
- Instructions:
- Set out all ingredients in separate bowls.
- Provide small bags or cups.
- Let kids create their own mix.
Tip: Use this as an opportunity to discuss healthy snacking.
12. Campfire Cones
A less messy alternative to s’mores.
- Ingredients:
- Sugar or waffle cones
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate chips
- Sliced strawberries or bananas
- Aluminum foil
- Instructions:
- Fill cones with marshmallows, chocolate, and fruit.
- Wrap each cone tightly in foil.
- Place near the coals for about 5-7 minutes.
Tip: Rotate the cones to ensure even melting.
13. Banana Boats
A fruity, chocolaty delight.
- Ingredients:
- Bananas
- Chocolate pieces or chips
- Mini marshmallows
- Chopped nuts (optional)
- Foil
- Instructions:
- Slice the banana peel lengthwise, without removing it, to create a pocket.
- Stuff the banana with chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts.
- Wrap in foil and place on the grill or coals for about 10 minutes.
Tip: Eat with a spoon straight from the peel to minimize cleanup.
14. Popcorn Over the Fire
An entertaining snack that doubles as an activity.
- Ingredients:
- Popcorn kernels
- Oil
- Salt or seasoning of choice
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Instructions:
- Place a handful of kernels and a tablespoon of oil in the center of a large piece of foil.
- Add seasoning.
- Fold the foil into a pouch, sealing tightly, and attach to a stick.
- Hold over the fire, shaking gently until popping stops.
Tip: Be cautious of hot steam when opening the pouch.
Easy Snacks for On-the-Go
Quick bites to keep kids satisfied between meals.
15. Fruit Kebabs
A refreshing and hydrating snack.
- Ingredients:
- Assorted fruits (melon balls, grapes, kiwi slices, berries)
- Skewers
- Instructions:
- Thread fruit pieces onto skewers in a colorful pattern.
- Keep chilled in a cooler until ready to eat.
Tip: Sprinkle with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
16. Cheese and Crackers Packs
Simple but satisfying.
- Ingredients:
- Assorted crackers
- Cheese slices or cubes
- Optional: deli meats, pickles
- Instructions:
- Assemble individual snack packs in resealable bags.
- Include a mix of items for variety.
Tip: Use whole-grain crackers for a healthier option.
17. Veggie Cups
An easy way to get some greens in.
- Ingredients:
- Plastic cups
- Ranch dressing or hummus
- Veggie sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers)
- Instructions:
- Place a couple of tablespoons of dip at the bottom of each cup.
- Insert veggie sticks upright into the dip.
Tip: Prepare these ahead of time and keep them chilled.
18. Energy Bites
A no-bake treat that’s packed with goodness.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or raisins
- 1/4 cup flax seeds or chia seeds (optional)
- Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll into small balls.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tip: These can be made at home and brought along for a quick energy boost.
Key Takeaways For Camping Meals For Kids
- Preparation is Key: Prepping ingredients at home saves time and reduces stress at the campsite. Chop veggies, marinate meats, and measure out dry ingredients before you leave.
- Get Kids Involved: Involve your children in meal planning and preparation. It’s educational and keeps them engaged.
- Keep It Simple: Opt for meals that don’t require extensive ingredients or equipment. One-pot meals and foil packets are your friends.
- Safety First: Always supervise children around the campfire and cooking appliances. Teach them about fire safety and proper food handling.
- Embrace Flexibility: Outdoor cooking can be unpredictable. Be prepared to adapt recipes based on weather conditions and available resources.
Conclusion
Feeding your little adventurers doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these detailed camping meals for kids, you’re equipped to keep them happy, nourished, and ready for the day’s escapades.
So as you plan your 2024 family camping trip, let meal planning be part of the fun. After all, good food brings people together, and these recipes are sure to create delicious memories that last a lifetime.
