At Harry’s, we know camping is more than just a night away, it’s a cherished tradition that brings people closer to nature and to one another. Whether you’re seeking solace in the great outdoors or enjoying the company of loved ones, the shared experience of cooking and eating around the fire is a highlight of any camping trip.
No outdoor adventure is complete without the perfect campfire feast, from hearty, satisfying meals to indulgent sweet treats, the right food can elevate your camping experience and make the night even more memorable.
So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the wild, here’s our selection of seven of the best camp dinner ideas to inspire your next adventure.
HotDogs: The Classic Campfire Favourite
Nothing beats the simplicity and satisfaction of a hotdog when gathered around a campfire. This timeless combination features juicy sausages grilled to perfection over open flames tucked into crusty rolls or thick slices of bread. The smoky aroma and charred edges add a rustic charm, making each bite a delight.
Top with caramelised onions for a touch of sweetness or a generous dollop of mustard, ketchup, or brown sauce for that classic British twist.
Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, this hearty option is a crowd-pleaser for campers of all ages.
Jacket Potatoes: The Campfire Comfort Food
Jacket potatoes are a camping classic, bringing warmth and comfort to any outdoor meal. Simply wrap whole potatoes in foil and nestle them into the glowing embers of your campfire, allowing them to roast slowly until soft and smoky.
Once cooked, split them open and top with butter that melts into the fluffy insides, a sprinkle of cheese for extra indulgence, or hearty baked beans for a satisfying, rustic meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly customisable, these jacket potatoes are the perfect companion to the great outdoors.
S’mores: The Sweet Treat
Bringing a British twist to a beloved campfire classic, UK-style s’mores are a delightful combination of gooey, melty goodness. Toast marshmallows over the fire until golden and caramelised, then sandwich them between two digestive biscuits along with a square of your favourite chocolate.
The heat from the marshmallows melts the chocolate, creating a rich, indulgent filling encased in the crunchy sweetness of the biscuits.
Perfectly simple yet irresistibly delicious, these treats are a must-have for cosy evenings by the fire, guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Hearty and Warming Campfire Stew
The ultimate comfort food, campfire stew is perfect for chilly evenings spent outdoors. This one-pot dish combines tender diced meat (or a vegetarian alternative), root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and hearty beans; all simmered together in a rich, tomato-based sauce.
The slow cooking over the fire allows the flavours to meld beautifully, creating a warm and satisfying meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and ideal for sharing, this stew is a camping essential that will keep everyone feeling full and content as the night draws in.
Smoky, Sweet & Simple: Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob is a delightful and simple campfire side dish that brings a burst of sweetness to your outdoor meal. Wrapped in foil with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of seasoning, the cobs are placed on the grill or among the embers, where they roast to perfection. The heat transforms the kernels into a tender, smoky treat while the butter melts, creating a luscious flavour that’s hard to resist.
Whether served as a snack or alongside grilled meats, this easy-to-make dish is the perfect way to savour the flavours of the campfire.
Skewers Or Kebabs: A Campfire Feast
Skewers or kebabs are the perfect camping dinner for those who love to get creative with their meals. Simply thread chunks of marinated meat, vibrant vegetables, or even halloumi cheese onto skewers and season to taste with your favourite herbs and spices. As the skewers roast over the open flames, the ingredients char and caramelise, developing a smoky flavour that enhances their natural sweetness.
Skewers offer endless possibilities for personalising your campfire feast. You can have it with juicy chicken, tender lamb, or a vegetarian option. Quick, easy, and packed with flavour, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Toasted Crumpets or Bread: A Simple Delight
Toasted crumpets or bread are a comforting and quintessentially British campfire snack that’s perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed treat. Simply toast crumpets or thick slices of bread over the flames using a stick or grill, allowing the edges to crisp up while the inside remains soft and warm.
Once golden brown, slather with butter that melts into the surface, or add a dollop of jam for a sweet touch. For those who love bold flavours, a spread of Marmite adds that unique savoury kick. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, this simple snack brings warmth and nostalgia to any camping trip.
The Joy Of Campfire Cooking
There’s something magical about preparing and enjoying food around a campfire. Whether it’s the smoky aroma of grilled sausages, the comfort of foil-wrapped potatoes, or the sweetness of a perfectly toasted s’more, campfire meals bring people together and elevate the outdoor experience.
These seven campfire foods are not only delicious and easy to prepare, but they also offer a chance to create lasting memories with friends and family. So, next time you head out on an adventure to one of our campsites in the New Forest, be sure to bring the ingredients for these satisfying treats—your campfire feast awaits!
