Cooking over a campfire isn’t just a cooking method—it’s a communal ritual that turns simple ingredients into shared experiences, laughter, and warmth. The following recipe ideas can help any large gathering—from adventurous friend groups to youth camps—enjoy the smoky flavours and comforting ambience of campfire cooking. While these tips stand on their own for anyone exploring the great outdoors, if you’re looking for a place to bring together a large group of people, consider Camp Belgrave. Nestled in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, Camp Belgrave offers spacious group accommodation and an idyllic natural setting that can transform your next event into an unforgettable experience.
Soups and Stews
Imagine the comfort of wrapping your hands around a steaming bowl of soup while the cool evening air surrounds you. Soups and stews are camping classics, offering warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. A hearty vegetable stew made with fresh, seasonal produce, a comforting chicken noodle soup loaded with herbs, or a lentil soup simmered to perfection are all crowd-pleasers. For something a little different, you might try a corn, bacon and zucchini soup, which blends the smoky richness of bacon with the sweetness of corn and the tender bite of zucchini.
Grilled Meat
There’s something timeless about grilling meat over an open flame. The smoky aroma, the satisfying char, and the tender, juicy result make it a favourite for campfire cooking. For an elevated option, consider pairing your steak with a rich, smoky sauce that complements the meat’s natural flavour. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, and you can find a great example of this grilled meat recipe here. Serve it with roasted veggies or a slice of damper to complete the meal.
Toasted Sandwiches
Toasted sandwiches are an essential part of any camping menu. They’re quick, versatile, and always satisfying. A classic ham and cheese toastie is hard to beat with its gooey interior and crisp, golden crust. Veggie melts offer a lighter option while chocolate and banana sandwiches bring a sweet twist to the mix. Using a campfire sandwich press ensures even-toasted results every time. This is perfect as a snack, breakfast, or light meal and is easy to whip up at any moment. For an easy and crowd-pleasing recipe, check out this campfire sandwich recipe.
Roasted Vegetables in Foil
Roasted vegetables are a simple yet flavoursome addition to any campfire meal. The natural sweetness of carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes intensifies as they roast in foil with the edges caramelising to golden perfection. Sweet potatoes, in particular, shine when paired with a touch of honey and a hint of cinnamon like in this recipe for roasted sweet potatoes. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of garlic, and a handful of fresh herbs elevate the dish further. To add depth, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Once cooked, these vegetables are tender, smoky, and satisfying. It is ideal as a side dish or even a main course when paired with crusty campfire bread. Cleanup is a breeze, too, as the foil keeps everything contained and mess-free.
Stuffed Vegetables
Stuffed vegetables are a versatile and satisfying option for campfire meals. Capsicums are especially ideal, their natural sweetness intensifying as they roast over the fire. Fill them with rice, beans, cheese, or even a savoury mince mixture for a wholesome, smoky dish. If you’re looking to mix things up, these stuffed capsicum recipes offer plenty of inspiration for creative fillings. Wrapped in foil and cooked until tender, stuffed veggies are not only delicious but also a hearty addition to your campfire menu. Plus the simplicity of dropping a capsicum wrapped in aluminium foil over hot coals makes it perfect for large group cooking.
Skewers
Skewers bring an element of fun and customisation to campfire cooking. Each skewer can be tailored to your preferences whether it’s chicken, lamb, or beef alternated with vegetables like capsicums, zucchini, and onion. For vegetarians, skewers with mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and halloumi are just as delicious. For more inspiration, including creative flavour combinations and techniques, explore these skewer recipes. Grilling skewers over the fire adds a smoky char that enhances every ingredient. Plus, they’re perfect for group cooking!
Fire-Roasted Bread
Freshly baked bread adds a rustic touch to any meal, and it’s surprisingly easy to make over a campfire. Whether you’re baking damper in a cast-iron pot, twisting dough around sticks for golden breadsticks, or warming a loaf of garlic bread, the results are always worth the effort. If you’re new to making damper or looking for a classic recipe, this simple guide to damper bread shows how to create a soft, fluffy loaf with minimal ingredients. Preparing the dough in advance makes things even easier. Paired with soups, stews, or grilled meat, fire-roasted bread brings warmth and comfort to any camping meal.
Campfire Snacks
Snacking by the fire is one of the simple joys of camping. Popcorn made in a foil pouch is quick and satisfying while roasted nuts take on a warm, toasted flavour. For something a bit more indulgent, layer corn chips with salsa, cheese, and jalapeños in a foil pan to create cheesy, gooey nachos. These snacks are perfect for sharing whether you’re telling stories around the fire or relaxing after a long day of hiking or exploring the variety of local flora.
Hot Drinks by the Fire
As the evening cools, a warm drink is the perfect way to wind down. Hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, spiced apple cider with cinnamon and cloves, or a mulled wine with hints of citrus and spice can all be made easily over a fire. For the ultimate indulgence, try this recipe for Creamy Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows. It’s simple, decadent, and perfect for camping. Preparing these drinks in a kettle or heatproof pot is simple and they bring a comforting end to your day. Add a cinnamon stick or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Sweet Campfire Bakes
Desserts have a way of making any meal feel special and campfire bakes are no exception. There’s nothing quite like scooping into a bubbling berry cobbler fresh from a Dutch oven or unwrapping a foil-baked apple filled with cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter. These simple desserts carry the warmth and sweetness that perfectly complement a day spent outdoors. And of course, it wouldn’t be a campfire without s’mores. If you’re looking to perfect this classic treat or try a new twist, check out this delicious s’mores recipe. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows for the gooey centrepiece of a s’more or baking a dessert in a Dutch oven, these sweet creations are guaranteed to bring smiles around the fire.
Create Memories with Delicious Campfire Meals
Cooking over a campfire is all about embracing simplicity and creativity. These recipes showcase the versatility and flavour of campfire cooking, from hearty soups and grilled meats to indulgent desserts and easy foil-packet meals. Whether you’re preparing a comforting stew, a smoky skewer, or a warm slice of freshly baked damper, these ideas are sure to enhance your camp experience and bring people together around the fire.
While the ideas here provide value wherever you choose to set up camp, if you’re planning a group getaway in the Dandenong Ranges or beyond, remember that Camp Belgrave’s group-friendly facilities and scenic surroundings can elevate the entire experience. Bring your group together, cook, share stories, and create lasting memories in a place that’s truly designed for communal adventures in the great outdoors. Ready to plan your next adventure? Book your stay at Camp Belgrave today and experience the joy of campfire cooking in the heart of nature.