Camping is a great opportunity to connect with nature. But we still have to eat. And a great meal requires great cookware. So what is the best camping skillet?
Overall, the best camping skillet is the Misen Nonstick Frying Pan Set, an Amazon’s Choice product with a 3-later non-stick coating. Professional quality, even heat distribution, and a silicone grip that won’t be too hot to touch from an open flame.
But in the following review, we’ll look at 21 camping skillets that are ideal for your camp kitchen or RV kitchen.
For the latter, the cookware used in your home kitchen would do, but when cooking over open flame, cast iron pans and pots is ideal.
Pots and pans made with other materials are less durable.
An aluminum pot, for example, is not as strong as the aforementioned. An important factor to keep in mind is that open fire comes with high heat. If you opt for stainless steel or aluminum, don’t put them directly over open flame.
It is a good idea to go for cast iron because it is a great choice, but it comes with extra weight. In fact, it is virtually indestructible. You may also opt for skillets with removable handles or those with stay-cool handles.
Rest assured that none of what we recommend has Teflon coating. A few employ ceramic non-stick coatings. So, let’s check out the best camping skillets (we’ll also touch on the best camping cookware sets).
Let’s dive right in.
1. Simple Chef Cast Iron Skillet
Simple Chef Cast-iron Skillet is a high-quality Amazon’s Choice product.
It’s highly rated, well-priced, and ready to be shipped to you. It is of great value because it is made to last for a long time. It has a non-stick surface, is easy to clean, and is protected from scratches. An important thing to note is that virtually all the reviews are of folks praising the product.
Pros
- The set has non-stick surfaces
- It is highly affordable
- It comes in a set, so there is a size variety
- It is super easy to clean
- It is hefty
- The flavor of meals comes out better
- It is a long-term buy
Cons
- One may have to contend with the initial rust
- A reviewer claimed they were shipped cracked/broken
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
2. MSMK 12 ½ Non-stick Skillet
MSMK 12 ½ Non-stick Skillet has a triple non-stick coating and two layers of wear-resistant coating that make it a good option when you are in the market for a frying pan. It has a handle that stays cold, so you can cook with ease and flip the food if you have to. It also offers uniform heat transfer.
Pros
- It has a handle with a good grip that never gets heated up
- It is easy to clean
- It’s got low weight
- It is non-stick
- It comes with a transparent lid
- It heats up quickly
- It is a long-term buy (you’ll get many years of use)
- It looks attractive
Cons
- A reviewer claimed that the bottom gets warped
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
3. YIIFEEO Cast Iron Skillet
YIIFEEO Cast Iron Skillet is made of durable heavy-duty die-cast aluminum and it is coated with granite. Non-stick coating is applied, so you can rest assured your meal would turn out the way you want it. The skillet is easy to use seeing as it also has an ergonomically designed heat-resistant handle. As I explained in the intro, cast iron, is the best option.
Pros
- Its handle is heat-resistant
- It is easy to clean
- It is solid and heavy
- It’s got a non-stick coating
- It heats up quickly
- It comes in a set
- It looks attractive
Cons
- It is not to be used in an oven.
- A reviewer complained of a burnt mark near the handle
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
4. Anolon Nouvelle Copper Hard Skillet
Anolon Nouvelle Skillet is made with hard anodized aluminum, and an induction plate with a copper midlayer which makes for fast, even heating. It is nonstick and dishwasher safe.
Pros
- It is easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
- It is beautiful to look at
- It is highly durable
- It is solid and heavy
- It is nonstick
- Its flush rivulets offer a smooth cooking surface
- Its copper midlayer offers even heating
- Its handle stays relatively cool on medium heat
- It comes in a set
- It is oven safe
Cons
- A reviewer complained that the copper ring at the base of the pan washes off
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
5. Circulon Symmetry Hard Anodized Frying Pan
Circulon Symmetry hard anodized cook set is an Amazon’s Choice product. It has superior nonstick technology and rubberized handles that are comfortable to grasp. It is oven safe and dishwasher safe.
Pros
- It is easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
- It is lovely
- It is highly durable
- It is nonstick
- It works with induction and gas range
- It’s got a cavity — can be hung
- It’s got a rubberized handle
- It comes in a set
- It is oven safe
- Perfect for glass top stove
Cons
- A reviewer claims they are not as durable as they seem and that the warranty is not honored.
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Ever wondered how long you can dry camp? That’s what I got into in a recent article I published. I looked at how to dry camp with a travel trailer and some essentials you need for RV dry camping. But I also shared what it means to dry camp.
Just click that link to read it on my site.
Remember that cast iron skillets offer the best value. Ideally, you want to check out the GSI pinnacle range, MSR ceramic 2-pot set, and MSR quick. Naturally, you’ll want to take a little bit of precaution if you’re going to be a solo camper. Whether you are car camping is also important to consider.
6. Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet
Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet is crafted to be sturdy and durable. It offers even heat distribution and comes with two heat-resistant silicone handles. It’s a great option. It comes in several sizes, you can take the small, or fewer pieces or the larger set (if you’ll be cooking for a large group).
Pros
- It comes pre-seasoned
- It is heavy and well-made
- It is nonstick
- It’s got silicone handle covers
- It comes in a set
- It is oven safe
Cons
- A bit higher maintenance
- Someone complained its edges can cut your skin open
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
7. NutriChef 13-Piece Nonstick Cookware
NutriChef 13-Piece Nonstick Cookware is an Amazon’s Choice set that includes two skillets and other heat-resistant and scratch-free utensils which can serve as great camping pots.
Pros
- Excellent nonstick
- Cooks food evenly
- Handles don’t get hot
- It is easy to clean
- No sign of discoloration or dullness
- Scratch-free
- It comes in a set
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
Cons
- Color fades in time
- Someone complained it’s not induction ready as stated in the ad
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
8. Lodge 3 Quart Cast Iron Deep Skillet
Lodge 3 Quart Cast Iron Deep Skillet is pre-seasoned to prevent food from sticking and comes with a lid that allows condensing liquid to moisten your food. A virtually indestructible cast iron skillet that lasts for decades. And it’s offered at a great price to boot.
Pros
- It is non-stick
- It is sturdy and heavy
- It heats up evenly and retains heat well
- It is highly durable
- It can be used for baking bread
- It is relatively inexpensive
Cons
- It’s not so easy to clean
- It’s not easy to lift
- It’s not ideal for cooking certain meals
- It has to be re-seasoned before first use
- Its coating is chipping off
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
9. Legend Cast Iron Skillet
Legend Cast Iron Skillet is an Amazon’s Choice product that is made from premium steel and iron.
It is great for even heat distribution, lasts long, and can be used for different meals. It has silicone covers for the handle and a transparent lid. Remember not to use the silicone cover over an open flame.
Pros
- It is non-stick
- It works extremely well
- It is easy to clean
- It holds heat in very well
- It is sturdy and heavy
- It has a silicone cover for the handle
- It is highly durable
Cons
- It is high maintenance
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Once you get your cookware, what are you going to eat on?
In a recent article, I break down the 17 best dinnerware sets for life on the road in an RV. That article covers several types of materials including at least 1 that is dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, BPA-free, and unbreakable.
Just click that link to read it on my site.
10. Backcountry Cast Iron Skillet
Backcountry Cast Iron Skillet is molded from quality, ethically sought cast iron. It provides more uniform cooking and is good to go on a variety of heating methods. It’s solid cast iron cookware. A reviewer said he was over the moon about it.
Pros
- It’s got great browning capability
- It is non-stick
- It is pre-seasoned
- It works extremely well
- It is easy to clean
- It has a smooth interior
- It holds heat in very well
- It is sturdy and heavy
- It is highly durable
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It has a short handle
- It takes a bit of time to heat up
- A reviewer claims that the bottom is not completely flat
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
11. Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan
Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan is made of black carbon steel, helping to preserve the natural flavor of your meals. Once it’s been seasoned it becomes nonsticky.
Pros
- It’s got great browning capability
- It is non-stick
- It is pre-seasoned
- It works extremely well
- It is easy to clean
- It has a smooth interior
- It holds heat in very well
- It is sturdy and heavy
- It is highly durable
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It has a short handle
- It takes a bit of time to heat up
- A reviewer claims that the bottom is not completely flat
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
12. Lodge Carbon Steel Skillet
Lodge Carbon steel skillet is made with alloy steel. It is pre-seasoned and improves with use. It has a silicone handle holder that’s riveted for easy grip. It can be used on induction cooktops. A user remarked that it’s like having a Teflon pan without POFA exposure, while another says it’s akin to having the benefits of cast iron skillets without the weight.
Pros
- It’s got long silicone handle covers
- It is non-stick
- It is pre-seasoned
- It works extremely well
- It is easy to clean
- It does not warp
- It holds heat in very well
- It is sturdy and heavy
- It is highly durable
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It is not exactly lightweight
- Someone complained it was sticky
- It’s higher in the middle
- It has a rough surface
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
13. BK Pre-seasoned Black Steel Frying Pan
BK Pre-seasoned Black Steel Frying Pan is an Amazon’s Choice product and a good choice in deciding camp cookware to pack. It’s made with black steel, known to be 3 times denser than aluminum and more durable than traditional gray carbon steel. It is corrosion and stain-resistant.
Pros
- It is non-stick
- It is pre-seasoned
- It works perfectly
- It is easy to clean
- It does not warp
- It holds heat in very well
- It is sturdy and heavy
- It is highly durable
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It can rust
- Someone complained that the handle snapped off
- Heat distribution is uneven, another person complained
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
14. Amazon Basics Hard Anodized Skillet
Amazon Basics Hard Anodized Skillet is an Amazon’s Choice cookware. It is highly durable and it’s hard anodized exterior is scratch resistant. It’s a large fry pan, so it can be used even if you’re cooking for a lot of people.
Pros
- It’s got a non-stick coating
- It is pre-seasoned
- It is reasonably priced
- It has soft silicone handles
- It is huge
- It is extremely easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It may be difficult to clean in a small sink
- Someone complained it is too thin
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
15. AmazonCommercial Stainless Steel Fry Pan
AmazonCommercial Stainless Steel Fry Pan is a mix of stainless steel and aluminum.
It retains and distributes heat evenly so that your meals end up great. It can be used for all kinds of cooktops and it is oven safe and dishwasher safe. Someone who bought it described it as an “amazing value for the money”. It’s a great addition to your camping cookware kit.
Pros
- It’s got a non-stick coating
- It’s got a heat-resistant handle
- It is pre-seasoned
- It deglazes extremely well
- It is flat-bottomed
- It is reasonably priced
- It is easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
- It comes with 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- It may be difficult to clean in a small sink
- Someone complained it is too thin
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
So, can you live in a motorhome in winter? That’s what I got into in a recent article. In it, I shared 3 key things you need to know if you’ll stay in a Class A Motorhome, how to live in an RV during winter, and what temp will make your pipes freeze in a camper.
Just click that link to read it on my site.
16. GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Skillet
GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Skillet has a healthy diamond-reinforced ceramic non-stick coating.
The best part is that it is free of lead, cadmium, PFAOs, and PFAS. It is oven and broiler safe. You can also use a dishwasher, confident that it won’t warp or scratch.
Pros
- It’s got a ceramic non-stick coating
- It can be used on all stovetops including induction
- Heats evenly
- Food slips around easily
- It is reasonably priced
- It is easy to clean
- Strong surface, not easily scratched
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
- It comes with 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Non-stick wears off
- Probably not a good idea to put it in a dishwasher
- Don’t cook proteins on high heat
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
17. Misen Nonstick Frying Pan Set
Misen Nonstick Frying Pan Set is an Amazon’s Choice product that employs a unique primer plasma and 3-layer Dupont Platinum coating. It is ideal for cooking a variety of delicate meals.
Pros
- It has a non-stick coating
- It has a stay-cool silicone grip
- It can be used on all stovetops including induction
- Its aluminum base provides even heating
- It is reasonably priced
- It is spacious (ideal if you’ll be cooking for larger groups)
- It is easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It takes longer to heat up
- It dents easily
- Its non-stick quality doesn’t last
- The Interior is not flat
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
18. GreenLife Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan
GreenLife Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan is crafted from recycled aluminum. It has a healthy Thermolon mineral non-stick coating that’s made from sand. Its diamond-reinforced coating makes it highly durable. It’s a compact set.
Pros
- It is pretty and stylish
- It has a non-stick coating
- It has a stay-cool handle
- It is easy to clean
Cons
- Use on low heat
- Be careful of the plastic handle
- It’s not scratch-resistant
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
19. REDMOND Nonstick Frying Pan
REDMOND Nonstick Frying Pan is made with eco-friendly ceramic that’s designed to be long-lasting. It is non-stick and non-toxic. A good reason to check it out is that it’s suitable for all kinds of stoves.
Pros
- It has a non-stick coating
- It allows for even heat distribution
- It is easy to clean
- It’s deep
- It’s got an ergonomic cool-touch handle
- It has a transparent glass lid that helps with heating and flavor preservation
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
- Highly durable
- Awesome customer service
Cons
- One reviewer complained that black gunk gathered in the middle of the pan while they were cooking
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
20. LOLYKITCH Stainless Steel Frying Pan
LOLYKITCH Stainless Steel Frying Pan is constructed using a three-layer composite stainless steel. It is non-stick, safe, non-toxic, and durable.
Pros
- It is beautiful
- It has a non-stick coating
- It has an ergonomic cool-touch handle
- It is comfortable to hold
- It distributes heat evenly
- It insulates heat well
- Its rim is thick
- It has a smooth surface
- It is wide
- It is easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
Cons
- Things do stick to the pan
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
21. AVACRAFT Stainless Steel Skillet
AVACRAFT Stainless Steel Skillet employs a Tri-ply bonded construction to ensure that heat spreads evenly and heat spots are eliminated. It has a transparent shatterproof glass lid and a heatproof handle.
Pros
- It can be used on all kinds of stovetops and is induction compatible
- Impressive craftmanship
- It has a non-stick coating
- It has a stay-cool handle
- It is easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- Even heating and high quality
- Excellent customer service
- Minority, woman-owned business
- It is not too heavy
Cons
- It is a bit heavy
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Overall Best Picks
Best Budget Camping Skillet – About $40
Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan
Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan is made of black carbon steel, helping to preserve the natural flavor of your meals. Once it’s been seasoned, it becomes nonsticky.
Pros
- It’s got great browning capability
- It is non-stick
- It is pre-seasoned
- It works extremely well
- It is easy to clean
- It has a smooth interior
- It holds heat in very well
- It is sturdy and heavy
- It is highly durable
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It has a short handle
- It takes a bit of time to heat up
- A reviewer claims that the bottom is not completely flat
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Best Top of the Line Skillet – Under $100
Misen Nonstick Frying Pan Set
Misen Nonstick Frying Pan Set is an Amazon’s Choice product that employs a unique primer plasma and 3-layer Dupont Platinum coating. It is ideal for cooking a variety of delicate meals.
Pros
- It has a non-stick coating
- It has a stay-cool silicone grip
- It can be used on all stovetops including induction
- Its aluminum base provides even heating
- It is reasonably priced
- It is spacious (ideal if you’ll be cooking for larger groups)
- It is easy to clean
- It is dishwasher safe
- It is oven safe
Cons
- It takes longer to heat up
- It dents easily
- Its non-stick quality doesn’t last
- The interior is not flat
CLICK HERE to check the current price on Amazon
Conclusion
At the end of the day, you’ll need more than skillets to enjoy camping.
You’ll also need other camping cookware, such as a small pot, large pot, cast iron pot, a Dutch oven, serving spoon, cutting board, stainless steel pots…in short, the best camping cookware.
You’ll need a small stove. It’s a good idea to know beforehand if you’ll be cooking for large groups and if you’ll have access to enough water, warm water, and cold water.
You also need to consider easy transport, a carrying bag for the whole set, and easy storage. And if you’re wondering what to choose between stainless steel vs. aluminum, the former is the better option.
Happy camping.
Image by Leo Fontes from Pixabay
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