There is something special about cooking over an open fire. Whether it’s the sound of coals popping, the smell of roasted food in the air, or the satisfaction of sharing a meal outdoors, campfire cooking is one of those classic camping traditions that never gets old.

At Akron-Canton Jellystone Park™, every campsite includes a fire ring, making it easy for families to enjoy meals right at their site. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, this guide will help you feel confident and excited about cooking on a campfire. With the right tools, some simple prep, and a few creative recipes, campfire meals can be just as fun as the rest of your Jellystone adventure.

The Joy of Cooking on a Campfire

Cooking on a campfire is not just about making food; it’s about slowing down and enjoying the process. Unlike indoor cooking, campfire meals bring everyone together outside. It’s an experience with a great meal waiting for you at the end.

Families love campfire cooking because it gets kids involved and creates a shared sense of adventure. From gathering firewood to wrapping up foil packets, it turns mealtime into an activity. And since you’re cooking over hot coals instead of a stovetop, there’s less cleanup and more time to relax.

What to Bring: Campfire Cooking Tools and Essentials

Before you head to Akron-Canton Jellystone Park, it helps to have a few reliable tools ready. While you do not need a full kitchen setup, there are a few essentials that will make campfire cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Must-haves:

• A cast iron skillet or grill grate
  
• Heat-resistant tongs, spatula, and gloves
  
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
  
• A small cutting board and prep knife
  
• Resealable bags or containers for prepping ingredients and storing leftovers
  
• Firewood or charcoal and fire starters
  

Nice-to-haves:

• Pie irons for sandwiches or desserts
  
• Roasting sticks for skewers or marshmallows
  
• A Dutch oven for larger meals
  

Many of these items can be packed at home, and pre-chopping or marinating ingredients before you arrive will save you time and effort at the campsite.

Do’s and Don’ts of Campfire Cooking

Campfire cooking is pretty forgiving, but a few basic tips can make a big difference in how your meals turn out and how much you enjoy the process.

With just a little preparation, cooking on a campfire becomes an easy and even relaxing part of your camping trip.

Easy Camping Meals the Whole Family Will Love

You do not have to be a gourmet chef to enjoy delicious food over a fire. You can find endless campfire recipes online, ranging from quick and easy beginner recipes to gourmet meals cooked over the fire. 

These three simple recipes are kid-friendly, satisfying, and flexible enough for a variety of tastes. Best of all, you can prep most of the ingredients at home so that everything is ready to go when it’s time to eat. 

1) Foil Packet Dinner: Chicken Fajita Packs

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast strips
  
• Bell peppers (any color)
  
• Onion
  
• Olive oil
  
• Taco seasoning
  
• Tortillas (optional)
  

At home: Slice the chicken and vegetables, toss with olive oil and taco seasoning, then divide into foil packets. Store them in the cooler until ready to cook.

At camp: Place packets on a bed of hot coals and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Carefully open and serve with tortillas or over rice.

2) Campfire Skewers: Sweet and Savory Kebabs

Ingredients:

• Pre-cooked sausage (or meat of choice)
  
• Pineapple chunks
  
• Cherry tomatoes
  
• Zucchini slices
  

At home: Chop ingredients and assemble the skewers. Wrap them in foil or store in a container in the cooler.

At camp: Cook skewers over a grill grate or just above the coals for 5 to 7 minutes per side. Optional dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard add extra flavor.

3) Breakfast Classic: Campfire French Toast Packets

Ingredients:

• Thick slices of bread
  
• Eggs (beaten)
  
• Cinnamon
  
• Sliced strawberries or bananas
  
• Maple syrup or powdered sugar
  

At home: Mix eggs and cinnamon in a container. Wash and slice fruit. Store ingredients in separate containers.

At camp: Dip bread slices in egg mixture, layer with fruit, and wrap in foil. Cook the packets over coals for 10 to 12 minutes until the toast is cooked through and fruit is warm. Add syrup or powdered sugar before serving.

Cooking at Akron-Canton Jellystone Park is Part of the Adventure

Campfire cooking is more than a way to feed your family. It is an experience that brings people together, encourages creativity, and becomes one of the highlights of your stay at Akron-Canton Jellystone Park. With fire rings available at every campsite, you have everything you need to turn your meals into memorable moments.

Plan your family camping trip at Akron-Canton Jellystone Park and try these easy camping meals at your own fire ring. Check availability and start your adventure today.