3 Easy Recipes to Make at Your Campsite this Season

Autumn camping offers a magical combination of crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy fireside moments. What better way to embrace the season than with hearty, easy-to-make meals that capture the warmth of fall? Whether you're a seasoned camper or a newbie to outdoor cooking, these three recipes are perfect for your autumn campsite adventure.

1. Campfire Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Nothing says autumn like apples and cinnamon. This recipe is a delicious way to kick-start your morning in the woods.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pancake mix (just-add-water kind for simplicity)
• 1 apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
• Butter or oil for cooking
• Maple syrup for serving

Instructions:

1. Mix the pancake mix with water according to the package instructions. Stir in cinnamon and sugar if using.
2. Fold in the chopped apple.
3. Heat a cast-iron skillet over the campfire and add a little butter or oil to coat the bottom.
4. Pour the pancake batter onto the skillet, cooking until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with maple syrup for a sweet, comforting breakfast.

Pro Tip: Pre-mix the dry ingredients at home and store them in a sealed bag for easy assembly at the campsite.

2. Foil-Packed Sausage & Veggie Dinner

Foil packets are the ultimate camp cooking hack—easy to make, easy to clean up. This hearty sausage and veggie meal brings the flavors of autumn to your campfire.

Ingredients:

• 2 smoked sausages, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings (like garlic powder or paprika)

Instructions:

1. Lay out large pieces of aluminum foil. Divide the sausage, potatoes, bell pepper, and onion evenly between the foil pieces.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings.
3. Fold the foil packets tightly to seal.
4. Place the packets on the hot embers of the campfire and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sausages are cooked through.
5. Carefully open the packets and enjoy!

Pro Tip: You can prepare these foil packets at home, so all you need to do is throw them on the fire when you’re ready to eat.

3. S'mores-Inspired Campfire Nachos

S’mores are a camping classic, but why not switch things up with s’mores-inspired nachos? This dessert is perfect for sharing around the campfire.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of tortilla chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup chocolate chips or broken chocolate bars
• 1 cup graham cracker pieces
• 1 banana (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)

Instructions:

1. Spread the tortilla chips in a cast-iron skillet or foil pan.
2. Top with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, graham cracker pieces, and sliced bananas if using.
3. Place the skillet over the campfire or grill for about 5-10 minutes, until the marshmallows are toasted and the chocolate is melted.
4. Serve warm and dig in with your friends!

Pro Tip: You can switch out the tortilla chips for cinnamon-sugar pita chips for an extra sweet touch.

Autumn camping is all about cozying up to the fire and enjoying the outdoors. With these simple, delicious recipes, you can fuel your adventures and make memories around the campfire. Whether you’re starting your day with apple pancakes, savoring a hearty foil-packed dinner, or sharing a fun dessert with friends, these dishes will make your autumn camping experience even more special.