5 Easy Camping Dinners Your Family Will Love

Every summer, my family packs up the van, loads in the dogs, and heads off on a week-long camping adventure. We leave behind the everyday stress, responsibilities, and endless to-do lists and spend a week reconnecting with nature—and each other.

Some of my most cherished childhood memories were made around a campsite, and I hope my own children will grow up with those same special memories.

Unfortunately, there's one thing I can't seem to escape, even while camping: figuring out what's for dinner.

Honestly, when I was planning my future family, I never quite realized that I would be responsible for coming up with meals every single day for the rest of my life! It's a little overwhelming when you think about it.

One of the best things I've ever done is start meal planning. Knowing what's for dinner ahead of time eliminates so much stress, and camping trips are no exception. Over the years, I've found a handful of easy, delicious meals that my family loves and that don't leave me pulling my hair out at dinnertime.

I wanted to share them with you!

Recipe #1: Chicken Penne Bake

This one is SUPER easy and incredibly delicious!

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 jars marinara sauce
• 1 box penne pasta
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Add chicken, marinara sauce, and seasonings to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the penne according to package directions.
4. Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
5. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a casserole dish.
6. Add the chicken and marinara mixture and stir well.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy!

Recipe #2: Lemony Garlic Chicken & Veggie Foil Packets

A camping classic with almost no cleanup!

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Baby potatoes
• Zucchini
• Bell peppers (I love using yellow and orange)
• Lemon slices
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Italian seasoning

Directions

1. Place all ingredients into individual foil packets.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season to taste.
3. Seal the packets tightly.
4. Grill for 25–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.

Enjoy!

Recipe #3: Taco Salad

Fresh, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 bag romaine lettuce (or 1 head romaine, chopped)
• Shredded taco cheese
• 1 jar salsa
• Taco seasoning
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 bag Doritos

Optional:

• Diced avocado
• Warm corn kernels

Directions

1. Brown the ground beef or turkey and drain any excess grease.
2. Add taco seasoning, red pepper flakes, and ¼ cup water. Simmer for a few minutes.
3. Place chopped romaine in a large serving bowl.
4. Top with the seasoned meat.
5. Halve the cherry tomatoes and crush the Doritos.
6. Add the remaining ingredients and toss together.

Enjoy!

Recipe #4: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

These disappear fast at our campsite!

Ingredients

• 2 packages Hawaiian rolls
• 2 lbs deli ham (honey ham is especially delicious)
• 1 lb sliced cheese
• Melted butter

Directions

1. Slice the rolls in half horizontally.
2. Layer ham and cheese onto the rolls.
3. Place the tops back on.
4. Brush generously with melted butter.
5. Wrap in foil and heat on the grill until warmed through and the cheese is melted.

Enjoy!

Recipe #5: Caprese Pasta

Light, fresh, and perfect for summer camping.

Ingredients

• Cooked pasta
• Fresh mozzarella pearls
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil
• Olive oil
• Balsamic glaze

Optional:

• Grilled chicken

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Toss gently until everything is coated.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Enjoy!

Bonus Recipe: Over-the-Grill Pizza

Because pizza tastes even better outdoors!

Ingredients

• Large pre-made pizza dough
• Marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Toppings:

• Pepperoni
• Vegetables
• Feta cheese
• Arugula

Directions

1. Spread marinara sauce over the dough.
2. Top with mozzarella and your favorite toppings.
3. Place directly on the grill over medium heat.
4. Cook until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.

Enjoy!

Thank you for taking the time to read this article! I hope these recipes make your next camping trip a little easier and a lot more delicious.

And if you'd be interested in a camping dessert roundup, let me know—I've got plenty of sweet treats to share!

*Image generated by AI