A camping kitchen is a great investment for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. While it may not be possible to bring one along on a thru-hike, a camping kitchen is perfect for car camping trips. It provides a safe and convenient way to cook, and it also helps to keep all of your kitchen utensils organized.

I used to use a small camping stove, but it was so annoying having to balance my pans on such a tiny piece of cooking equipment. I would have to constantly hold on to the handle of the pan while bending over in an uncomfortable position. My back would be killing me by the time I finally got a hot meal in front of me. With some of the best camping kitchens, you can cook safely in a standing position, making mealtime much more comfortable.

What to look out for before buying a camp kitchen in 2023

Before you buy a camp kitchen in 2023, consider how you will be using it. If you are car camping, you will need a different setup than if you are staying for multiple nights. If you are cooking for multiple people, you will need to consider how much space you have and how many people you will be cooking for. Here are some things to look out for when choosing a camp kitchen:

-Size: Make sure the camp kitchen is the right size for your needs. If you are car camping, you will need a larger setup than if you are backpacking.    Different camping situations require versatility and having the right size camp kitchen is key to having the camping or backpacking trip you envision.

-Weight: If you are backpacking, weight is an important consideration.  Having proper lightweight gear could be the difference between having to stop halfway to your destination and resting or making it to the top of the mountain. Choose a camp kitchen that is lightweight but still has all the features you need to cook a delicious breakfast or dinner after a long rewarding hike.

-Features: Consider what features are important to you. Some camp kitchens come with built-in stoves and sinks, while others do not. Are you going to be cooking a large meal for a big group of people? Or are you dishing up something tasty for personal preference? Make sure the camp kitchen has all the features you need.

Best camp kitchens

1. GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station Portable Outdoor Folding Table
2. Coleman Pack-Away Portable Kitchen
3. VBENLEM Portable Camping Kitchen
4. Camp Field Camping Table with Adjustable Legs

1) GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station Portable Outdoor Folding Table

The GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station is our top choice for bringing an outstanding kitchen environment into the great outdoors. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to do some serious cooking while camping, tailgating, or picnicking.

It has an aluminum countertop that is easy to clean and a paper towel holder to keep things tidy.  On top of a phenomenal countertop this station has plenty of space to fit stoves, grills, cooking utensils. There’s even a side table to put your food while you’re cooking.  If you want to keep you, your family, and your friends fed during epic and adventurous camping trips, then this station is for you!

What we liked

• Aluminum countertop
• Steel frame
• Heat resistant
• Unfolds with ease
• Easily organizable space

GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station Portable Outdoor Folding Table specifications

Product Dimensions: 52″D x 21″W x 32″H

Item Weight: ‎18.9 Pounds

2) Coleman Pack-Away Portable Kitchen

The Coleman Pack-Away Portable Kitchen is your go to for a stable cooking space with an ample amount of storage.   It’s the top of line in terms of the best camping kitchens for car campers and tailgaters who want to be able to cook without being tethered to a campsite or picnic area.

This kitchen has two side tables that give you plenty of room to prep your meals. It also comes with a paper towel holder, spice rack, and utensil hooks to keep things tidy and organized. This station is a good option for feeding an entire family.

What we liked

• 31.5 X 21.3 Inch food prep area
• Compact casing
• Utensil hooks
• Accommodates Coleman stoves

Coleman Pack-Away Portable Kitchen specifications

Product Dimensions: 11″D x 31.5″W x 4″H

Product Weight: 14 pounds

3) VBENLEM Portable Camping Kitchen

The VBENLEM Portable Camping Kitchen offers a very large storage capacity making it one of the best camp kitchens in 2022.  It has two side tables and one countertop to keep your cooking gear organized.

The strong aluminum “X” frame  makes this kitchen sturdy and the powder-coated finish will keep it looking great for years to come. It is also detachable and foldable making it easy to fit into your car along with the rest of your camping gear.  This kitchen is a great choice for those who like to have plenty of space while cooking.

What we liked

• X-frame design
• Aluminum construction
• Powder coated finish
• 3 zippered bags

VBENLEM Portable Camping Kitchen specifications

Product Dimensions: 68.5 x 18.1 x 44 inches

Item Weight: 29 pounds

4) Camp Field Camping Table with Adjustable Legs

The Camp Field Camping Table with Adjustable Legs is a great choice for those who want a camp kitchen that is lightweight and easy to set up.

This table has an aluminum alloy frame that is powder coated to resist corrosion. The table top is made of MDF and is easy to clean. It also has  two side tables for food prep and storage. It also has two cubbies right below the side tables for storage purposes, designed to hold up to 66 pounds of content.

What we liked

• Lightweight
• Easy to set up
• Lifetime warranty
• Perfect for camping

Camp Field Camping Table with Adjustable Legs specifications

Item Dimensions: LxWxH ‎7.09 x 18.5 x 10.24 inches

Item Weight: 15 pounds

Final thoughts on the best camp kitchens of 2023

Camping is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. But, in order to have a successful camping trip, you need to be prepared. Purchasing the best camp kitchen will make your life a lot easier while you’re out in the wilderness.