Planning a camping trip? Don’t forget the snacks! A good mix of easy-to-pack and energizing options is key to keeping spirits high and energy up. Camping snacks aren’t just for cravings; they’re essential to keep everyone fueled while exploring the outdoors.
Here’s a selection of the best camping snacks that are practical, tasty, and ideal for outdoor fun—from quick grab-and-go bites to homemade camping snacks you can prepare ahead.
1. S’mores Bars
No camping trip is complete without s’mores. But if building a campfire isn’t on the agenda, s’mores bars can save the day. They pack all the classic flavors—graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows—in a convenient bar form. Here’s a simple recipe:
- Ingredients: Graham cracker crumbs, marshmallows, chocolate chips, butter.
- Directions: Combine crumbs and butter to make a crust, layer with chocolate and marshmallows, and bake until melty. Let cool and cut into bars.
These easy camping snacks bring nostalgia in every bite and are a great way to start or end your camping day.
2. Spicy Air Fryer Chickpeas
For a crunchy, protein-packed option, spicy air fryer chickpeas are a hit. They’re light, portable, and full of flavor, making them one of the best non-perishable snacks for camping.
- Ingredients: Canned chickpeas, olive oil, and your favorite spices (paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
- Directions: Drain and rinse chickpeas, coat with oil and spices, and air fry until crispy. You’ll get a satisfying crunch without the oiliness of traditional fried snacks.
This healthy camping snack is great for anyone wanting a nutritious and quick grab-and-go snack.
3. Puppy Chow
Puppy chow (also known as Muddy Buddies) is the ultimate treat for both kids and adults. It’s easy to make and can be stored in a sealed bag for days.
- Ingredients: Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, powdered sugar.
- Directions: Melt chocolate and peanut butter, coat the cereal, then shake with powdered sugar until everything’s covered.
Perfect for munching on the go, puppy chow combines sweetness and crunch, making it one of the best camping snacks for families.
4. Cowboy Caviar
Cowboy caviar is a hearty, salsa-style snack made with black beans, corn, and chopped veggies. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking healthy camping snacks that are also filling and nutrient-dense.
- Ingredients: Black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
- Directions: Mix all ingredients in a bowl, add a squeeze of lime juice, and season to taste. Serve with tortilla chips for a no-fuss, shareable snack.
Cowboy caviar is a refreshing, nutritious option that’s easily shareable at the campsite.
5. Cowboy Cookies
Loaded with oats, chocolate chips, and nuts, cowboy cookies are filling and flavorful, making them a great non-perishable snack for camping. These are easy to bake in advance and perfect for a quick energy boost.
- Ingredients: Oats, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and flour.
- Directions: Combine ingredients, form into cookies, and bake until golden. Store in a sealed container for a filling, sweet treat that doesn’t require refrigeration.
6. Doughnut Hole Kebabs
For a fun twist, try doughnut hole kebabs! They’re an unexpected portable snack for camping that offers a mix of fruit and sweetness.
- Ingredients: Doughnut holes, strawberries, and grapes.
- Directions: Skewer the doughnut holes and fruit on sticks for a sweet and colorful treat.
This snack is a fun, quick, and mess-free treat that works for campers of all ages.
7. Homemade Granola Bars
Homemade granola bars let you control the ingredients for a healthier option. They’re easy to make and provide a portable snack for camping that’s high in energy.
- Ingredients: Rolled oats, honey, peanut butter, nuts, dried fruit.
- Directions: Mix ingredients, press into a baking dish, and bake. Cut into bars once cooled.
Granola bars are hearty and can be stored for long periods, making them ideal non-perishable snacks for camping trips.
8. Garlic Ranch Party Mix
This garlic ranch party mix combines crunchy cereal, pretzels, and a hint of ranch seasoning, creating one of the quick camping snacks that everyone can enjoy.
- Ingredients: Chex cereal, pretzels, ranch seasoning, garlic powder.
- Directions: Toss ingredients together and bake for a quick, savory mix that everyone can enjoy.
It’s a light, crunchy, and flavor-packed mix perfect for munching around the campfire.
9. Campfire Cones
If you’re looking for fun snack ideas for camping, campfire cones are a must-try. Fill waffle cones with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and fruits, then wrap them in foil and heat over the fire.
- Ingredients: Waffle cones, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, fruit.
- Directions: Fill cones, wrap in foil, and place over campfire coals until everything is melty.
Campfire cones are a sweet, hands-on dessert that’s perfect for sharing around the fire.
10. Breakfast Cookies
Why not start the day with breakfast cookies? These healthy camping snacks are packed with oats, dried fruit, and nuts, making them a perfect non-perishable snack for camping.
- Ingredients: Oats, banana, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts.
- Directions: Mix everything, form into cookies, and bake until golden.
Breakfast cookies are a convenient, filling way to start the day—no cooking required at the campsite!
Bonus Tips for Choosing the Best Camping Snacks
When choosing the best camping snacks, think about how to choose the best camping snacks for your needs. Look for non-perishable snacks for camping and consider options like dried fruits, nuts, and jerky, which are long-lasting and easy to pack.
What Are the Healthiest Snacks for Camping?
Healthy snacks for camping include high-protein and fiber-rich options like nuts, trail mix, and veggie sticks. These foods are excellent for steady energy throughout the day without a sugar crash.
How to Pack Snacks for Camping
Keeping snacks organized in reusable bags or containers makes them easier to grab on the go. Vacuum-sealed bags keep items like dried fruit and nuts fresh and prevent spills.
Fun Snack Ideas for Camping
Mix things up with unique snacks like Nutella Krispie Treats or Cinnamon Roll Power Bites. These fun options can bring excitement to your camping menu and keep everyone eager for snack time.
Final Thoughts
Packing the right snacks can make all the difference on your camping trip. From satisfying s’mores bars to spicy chickpeas and hearty granola bars, these camping snack ideas are designed to be easy, tasty, and nutritious, helping you stay fueled and ready for all your outdoor activities.