Camping trips offer a wonderful escape into nature, and one of the best parts can be enjoying a delicious breakfast in the great outdoors. It can be a delightful way to start your day with a hearty meal that fuels your adventures. This article will provide you with 21 camping breakfast ideas that are easy, tasty, and perfect for your next outdoor excursion.
Whether you prefer something quick and portable or a more elaborate meal cooked over a campfire, there’s an option for everyone. From classic favorites to unique twists, these breakfast ideas will ensure you never have to compromise on taste or convenience.
1) Banana Pancakes
Banana pancakes are a great choice for breakfast while camping. They are easy to make, tasty, and filling. Start by mashing ripe bananas in a bowl.
Next, mix in some flour, eggs, and milk until you get a smooth batter. You can add a bit of cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor.
Heat a pan over your campfire or portable stove. Pour a small amount of batter into the pan and cook until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until both sides are golden brown.
Serve your banana pancakes with syrup, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. They’re sweet and satisfying, perfect for a morning meal in the outdoors.
2) Avocado Toast with Egg
Avocado toast with egg is a nutritious and easy option for a camping breakfast. Start by toasting some bread over your campfire or camping stove.
Next, mash a ripe avocado and spread it on the toast. You can add a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
For the egg, you have a few options. You can cook a fried egg in a skillet. Crack the egg into the skillet and cook until the yolk reaches your preferred level of doneness.
If you prefer scrambled eggs, whisk eggs in a bowl, add salt and pepper, and cook in a nonstick pan until set. Stir frequently.
Another option is a boiled egg. Place eggs in a pot, cover with water, and boil for about 9-12 minutes depending on how firm you want the yolks.
Once the egg is cooked, place it on top of the avocado toast. You can slice the boiled egg or lay the fried egg on whole.
Adding extras like a pinch of red pepper flakes, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a squeeze of lemon can boost the flavor.
This dish is not only quick but also packed with protein and healthy fats to keep you energized for your camping adventures.
3) Campfire Breakfast Burritos
You can make Campfire Breakfast Burritos quickly by a campfire. Start by heating some oil in a large skillet. Add your hash browns and cook them, stirring often for about a minute. Then, add chopped ham and keep cooking until both hash browns and ham are nicely browned.
While the hash browns and ham are cooking, whisk some eggs in a bowl. Once the hash browns and ham are ready, pour the eggs into the skillet. Stir the mixture until the eggs are fully cooked. You can add salt and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, incorporate bell peppers and green onions. Sauté them in the skillet before adding the hash browns and ham. Their fresh taste blends well with the other ingredients.
Once everything is cooked, scoop the mixture into tortillas. Wrap them up tightly and you’ve got your breakfast burritos. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for quick breakfasts around the campfire. These burritos are a great way to start your day in the outdoors.
4) Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is perfect for camping. It’s easy to make and tastes great. You just need oatmeal, apples, cinnamon, and a bit of sugar.
Start by boiling water in a pot. Add the oatmeal and let it cook for a few minutes. Meanwhile, chop up an apple into small pieces.
Once the oatmeal starts to thicken, add the apple pieces and sprinkle in some cinnamon and sugar. Stir everything together and let it cook until the apples are tender.
This simple recipe gives you a warm and filling breakfast. Plus, it’s healthy and keeps you energized for the day’s adventures.
5) Campfire Breakfast Bowls
Campfire breakfast bowls are a hearty and versatile option for your camping mornings. You can combine various ingredients to suit your taste.
Start with a base like potatoes or hash browns. Cook them until they’re crispy and golden.
Next, add proteins such as scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage. You can cook these directly in the pan or prepare them separately.
For added flavor, toss in some veggies. Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes are great choices. They add a nice crunch and burst of color.
Don’t forget the cheese. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and let it melt over the warm ingredients.
To finish, add some toppings. Salsa, sour cream, or avocado slices can give your breakfast bowl an extra kick.
With campfire breakfast bowls, you can easily customize the meal. Adjust the ingredients and quantities based on your preferences. This makes them a favorite for many campers looking for a satisfying start to their day.
6) Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for camping. It consists of eggs poached in a sauce made of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices.
To make Shakshuka, you’ll need a single pan. Start by heating some olive oil in your pan. Add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant.
Next, add chopped bell peppers and cook for a few more minutes. Then, pour in canned tomatoes and let the mixture simmer. Add spices like paprika, cumin, and chili powder to give it a robust flavor.
Once the sauce thickens, create small wells and crack the eggs into them. Cover the pan and let the eggs poach until the whites are firm but the yolks are still runny.
Serve your Shakshuka with some crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. This dish not only fills you up but also brings a taste of home to the great outdoors.
7) Peanut Butter Banana Sandwich
A peanut butter banana sandwich is perfect for camping mornings. It’s simple to make and doesn’t require any cooking.
To start, take a tortilla and spread a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter on one half. Make sure to spread it evenly for the best taste.
Next, slice a banana into thin pieces. Place the banana slices over the peanut butter.
Fold the tortilla in half to create a taco shape. This makes it easy to eat on the go.
This sandwich is not only tasty but also nutritious. The peanut butter provides protein, and the banana offers natural sweetness and potassium. It’s a great start to an active day outdoors.
Additionally, tortillas are less likely to get squished compared to bread. This makes them ideal for packing in a backpack.
Enjoy your peanut butter banana sandwich with a hot beverage or some fresh fruit on the side for a full meal. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious camping breakfast.
8) Bacon and Egg Muffins
Bacon and egg muffins are a great option for camping breakfasts. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. This makes them perfect for those mornings when you want a quick and tasty meal.
To start, cook bacon until it’s crispy. Let it cool and then crumble it into small pieces.
In a bowl, beat eggs and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix in the bacon bits, and if you like, chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions.
Pour the mixture into muffin tins, filling each cup about halfway. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set.
Let the muffins cool slightly before removing them from the tin. These muffins can be eaten warm or saved for later. They are easy to transport and reheat over a campfire.
9) Blueberry Pancake Skewers
Blueberry Pancake Skewers are a fun and convenient camping breakfast option. They are simple to make and easy to eat, especially when you are on the go.
First, prepare some mini pancakes. You can use a ready-made pancake mix to save time. Add fresh blueberries into the batter for extra flavor.
Then, cook the mini pancakes on a griddle or skillet until they are golden brown. Let them cool for a bit.
Once the pancakes are ready, slide them onto skewers. Alternate pancakes with more fresh blueberries for a tasty and visually appealing touch.
You can also drizzle a bit of maple syrup or honey over the skewers. This adds sweetness and brings all the flavors together.
These Blueberry Pancake Skewers are great for kids and adults alike. They can be eaten without plates or utensils, making cleanup easy.
So, next time you’re camping, try making Blueberry Pancake Skewers. It’s a simple and delicious way to start your day.
10) French Toast Sticks
French toast sticks are a fantastic camping breakfast idea. They are easy to make and fun to eat. Best of all, they can be prepared ahead of time.
To start, cut thick slices of bread into strips. This makes them easy to dip and cook. Next, in a shallow bowl, beat some eggs.
Add milk, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the beaten eggs. This mixture will give your French toast sticks a delicious flavor. Make sure to mix everything well.
Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add a bit of butter to the pan. Dip the bread strips into the egg mixture, making sure they are well-coated.
Place the coated bread strips into the pan. Cook them until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take a few minutes per side.
Once done, serve your French toast sticks with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. They are perfect for a sweet and simple camping breakfast. Enjoy the crunchy outside and soft inside of these tasty treats!
11) Campfire Toasted Bagels
Campfire toasted bagels are an easy and tasty breakfast for your outdoor adventure.
Start by slicing your bagels in half. Spread a bit of butter or oil on each side to prevent sticking and burning.
Over your campfire, you can use a toasting fork or place the bagels on a grill grate. Toast the bagels until they are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
Once toasted, you can top your bagels with your favorite spreads. Cream cheese, jam, or peanut butter are great options. For a more savory taste, you can add cheese, ham, or even cooked bacon.
If you have a cooler, bringing along some fresh veggies like avocado or tomato can add a healthy twist to your breakfast. Just slice and add them to your toasted bagel for a delicious and hearty meal.
Campfire toasted bagels are simple, quick, and versatile, making them a great choice for any camping trip. Enjoy your crispy and warm bagels as you start your day in the great outdoors.
12) Warm Cinnamon Apples
Warm cinnamon apples make a cozy camping breakfast.
You only need a few ingredients: apples, cinnamon, sugar, and butter.
Start by peeling and slicing the apples.
Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add a bit of butter to the skillet.
Once the butter melts, add the apple slices.
Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over the apples.
Cook until the apples are soft, stirring occasionally.
The butter, cinnamon, and sugar create a sweet, aromatic sauce.
You can use any type of apple, but firmer varieties work best.
Serve the warm cinnamon apples alone or as a topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or yogurt.
This easy, delicious dish is a great way to start your day at the campsite.
13) Breakfast Quesadillas
Breakfast quesadillas are a fantastic camping meal. They’re easy to make, filling, and versatile. You can customize them with your favorite ingredients to suit everyone’s tastes.
Start by cooking your choice of meat, such as bacon or sausage, in a pan over medium heat. Once cooked, set it aside and keep it warm.
Next, whisk eggs with salt and pepper, then scramble them in the same pan. You can add diced onions, bell peppers, or other veggies for added flavor.
Once the eggs are cooked, place a tortilla on a hot grill or skillet. Add a layer of meat, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese melts and the tortilla is crispy.
Breakfast quesadillas are perfect for camping because they’re quick to assemble and cook. Plus, they’re easy to eat with your hands, making cleanup a breeze. Enjoy this simple yet tasty meal on your next camping trip.
14) Veggie Omelette
A veggie omelette is a delicious and nutritious option for a camping breakfast.
Start by cracking open some eggs into a bowl. Add a splash of water and whisk until they are light yellow. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare your vegetables. Chop up spinach, cherry tomatoes, and red peppers.
Heat an 8″ pan over medium-low heat and spray it with cooking spray. Melt a bit of butter in the pan. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook.
When the eggs start to firm up but are still slightly runny on top, sprinkle on your chopped veggies. If you have cheese, add it now.
Fold the omelette in half and let it cook for another minute or two until the cheese melts and the veggies are warm. Serve hot.
15) Lumberjack Breakfast
A Lumberjack Breakfast is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for camping. It’s a great way to start your day with plenty of energy.
Begin by spraying some nonstick spray on a sheet of foil. Place sausages in the center.
Add diced bell peppers, onions, and potatoes over the sausages. Crack one or two eggs on top.
Season with pepper and seasoned salt. You can also add spices like Cajun or Old Bay if you prefer.
Wrap the foil packet tightly, ensuring it’s well-sealed. Place it over indirect heat or an oven and cook for about 20 minutes.
Check to make sure the sausage is done and the vegetables are tender. If using a BBQ, cook it for 15-20 minutes.
This balanced meal is easy to prepare, making it ideal for campfire cooking. Enjoy your Lumberjack Breakfast hot and fresh!
16) Breakfast Skillet Hash
Breakfast Skillet Hash is a great option for camping mornings. It is hearty, easy to make, and can be cooked in one pan.
Start by melting some butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes, sausage, onions, and green peppers. Cook until the potatoes are lightly browned.
Push the potato mixture to the sides of the pan and pour beaten eggs into the center. Stir the eggs occasionally until they are fully cooked. Once the eggs are set, mix everything together.
Top it with shredded cheese for an extra touch. Let the cheese melt before serving. This dish is warm, filling, and perfect for fueling your day outdoors.
17) Campfire Granola
Campfire granola is a quick and easy breakfast option for your camping adventures. It’s a tasty treat that you can make at home beforehand and take with you.
You’ll need rolled oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and some honey or maple syrup. Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl until well-coated.
Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
Once cooled, store it in an airtight container. You can enjoy it with milk, yogurt, or just plain by itself. It’s convenient, nutritious, and perfect for a camping breakfast.
18) Sausage and Egg Breakfast Pita
A sausage and egg breakfast pita is a great choice for a camping meal. It’s quick to prepare and easy to eat on the go.
First, cook the sausage until it’s browned. While that’s cooking, scramble some eggs in a separate pan. After both are done, set them aside.
Warm a pita bread over the fire or on a camp stove. Once warm, cut the pita in half to create pockets.
Stuff the pita halves with the cooked sausage and scrambled eggs. If you want, add some shredded cheese and a bit of hot sauce for extra flavor.
This meal combines protein and carbs, giving you the energy you need for a day of outdoor activities.
19) Mason Jar Parfaits
Mason Jar Parfaits are a fantastic camping breakfast option. They’re easy to make ahead and very portable. You simply layer yogurt, granola, and your favorite fruits in a mason jar.
Start with a spoonful of granola at the bottom of the jar. This will keep the yogurt from making the granola soggy right away. Next, add a layer of your favorite yogurt.
Top with a handful of mixed berries or any fruit you enjoy. You can repeat the layers until the jar is full, ending with a layer of yogurt.
These parfaits can be refrigerated overnight or up to a few days. This makes them a convenient grab-and-go breakfast.
Mason Jar Parfaits are not only delicious but also nutritious. They provide a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins to help you start your day strong.
For added variety, you can mix in chia seeds, nuts, or honey. Personalize them to suit your family’s tastes.
20) Chia Seed Pudding
Chia seed pudding is a fantastic camping breakfast. It’s easy to make, healthy, and keeps you full. You can prepare it the night before your trip, so it’s ready when you wake up.
To make chia seed pudding, mix chia seeds with your favorite plant-based milk. A popular choice is almond milk. Add sweeteners like maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon.
Shake or stir well, then let it sit in the fridge. After a few hours, the chia seeds absorb the liquid and create a pudding-like texture. Give it another stir to break up any clumps.
Serve your pudding with toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes. For a camping twist, try adding dried fruits and nuts. It’s easy to pack and perfect for an on-the-go breakfast.
Chia seed pudding is versatile. You can experiment with different flavors and toppings based on your preferences. It’s also lightweight, making it suitable for backpacking trips.
This pudding is not just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. This makes it a great start to your busy camping day. Enjoy a delicious, nutritious breakfast with minimal effort.
21) Cinnamon Roll-Ups
Cinnamon roll-ups are a tasty and easy camping breakfast idea. They require only a few ingredients and can be cooked over a campfire.
First, mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Use crescent roll dough by unwrapping and wrapping each piece around a skewer. Roll the dough in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Cook the roll-ups over the campfire for about 5 minutes, rotating frequently. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t burn. You can check if they’re ready by looking for a golden-brown color.
For extra sweetness, mix powdered sugar with a bit of water to create a glaze. Drizzle this over the cooked roll-ups. This glaze adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor.
Cinnamon roll-ups are a hit with both kids and adults. They are simple to make, and the results are delicious and satisfying. Enjoy them hot off the skewer for the best taste.
Tips For Preparing Breakfast On A Camping Trip
Here’s how you can make your morning meals easier and more enjoyable while camping. Focus on choosing the right equipment and prepping ingredients beforehand.
Choosing The Right Equipment
Selecting the proper tools is crucial for a smooth cooking experience.
Cast-Iron Skillet: Perfect for cooking a variety of foods, durable, and retains heat well.
Dutch Oven: Excellent for one-pot meals like scrambles or stews.
Camp Stove: Offers controlled heat and is ideal for boiling water or cooking on a flat surface.
Cooler: Essential for keeping perishable items fresh.
Bring items that have multiple uses. A cast-iron skillet can serve for both frying and baking. Reusable utensils and portable coffee makers are also handy for convenience. Remember to pack plenty of fuel for your stove to avoid running out halfway through your trip.
Prepping Ingredients In Advance
Preparing ingredients before your trip can save you a lot of time and hassle.
Chop Vegetables: Dice onions, peppers, and other veggies at home and store them in ziplock bags.
Pre-Cook Meats: Cook and slice bacon or sausage that you can quickly warm up.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine dry pancake mix or oatmeal in containers to reduce preparation time.
Use Pre-Made Packages: Consider bringing pre-sliced deli meats and cheese for easy sandwiches.
Portion out ingredients for each meal in advance. It helps to label the bags or containers. Instant drink packages like coffee or hot chocolate are a great time-saver. For coffee lovers, a bodum or pour-over setup can make mornings more pleasant without the need for electricity.
Nutrition And Dietary Considerations
When planning camping breakfasts, it’s important to consider both the balance of macronutrients and dietary restrictions. Ensuring you have the right nutrients will keep you energized for your adventures.
Balancing Macronutrients
To keep your energy levels up while camping, it’s crucial to balance carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Carbohydrates provide the quick energy you need for morning activities. Consider oatmeal, fruit, and whole-grain bread.
Proteins are important for maintaining muscle and keeping you full longer. Include eggs, nuts, and lean meats like turkey or chicken.
Fats are essential for sustained energy. Opt for avocados, cheese, or a bit of olive oil in your dishes.
A well-rounded breakfast might include oatmeal topped with nuts and dried fruit, or a scramble with eggs, veggies, and a bit of cheese.
Catering To Dietary Restrictions
When camping with a group, you might need to consider various dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or allergies.
For gluten-free needs, use options like fruits, vegetables, eggs, and gluten-free bread.
Vegetarian campers can enjoy dishes like a veggie omelette, yogurt with fruit and granola, or spicy breakfast burritos made with beans and veggies.
Pay special attention to allergies, such as nut, dairy, or egg allergies. Alternatives like soy milk, seed butter, or egg substitutes can be helpful.
Labeling food and discussing ingredients before the trip can help maintain safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Make sure you plan and prepare with these needs in mind to ensure everyone has a tasty and nutritious breakfast.
Campfire Cooking Techniques
Mastering campfire cooking can elevate your outdoor breakfast experience. Knowing how to use a Dutch oven and cook with foil packets will give you versatility and ease when preparing your meals.
Using A Dutch Oven
A Dutch oven is a robust, versatile tool for campfire cooking. Made from heavy cast iron, it retains heat well and cooks food evenly.
To get started, you need to preheat the oven. Place it over hot coals for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures an even cooking temperature. Once preheated, you can use it for a variety of recipes such as stews, casseroles, and even baked goods.
Tip: Keep the lid covered with hot coals to create a consistent oven-like environment.
When cooking, avoid opening the lid too frequently to maintain the heat inside. Dutch ovens are perfect for dishes that require slow, even cooking. Remember to season your Dutch oven regularly to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust.
Cooking With Foil Packets
Foil packets are a quick and easy way to cook meals over a campfire. They are perfect for dishes that don’t require much preparation and cleanup.
First, start by placing the ingredients inside a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Fold the foil into a packet, making sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent steam from escaping. Place the packet directly on the coals or on a grill over the fire.
Foil packets are ideal for cooking vegetables, meats, and even breakfast dishes like hash browns or eggs. Cooking times vary, but typically, 15-20 minutes is enough for most meals.
Tip: Use a pair of tongs to handle the hot packets safely.
One great advantage of foil packet cooking is the ability to prepare multiple meals at once. You can easily customize each packet to suit different tastes, making it a versatile option for group camping trips.
