Cooking over a crackling fire is the heart of every great trip. A solid cast iron skillet camping set is the most important tool you can bring to the woods. It holds heat like nothing else and lasts a lifetime if you treat it right. Whether you are frying eggs for breakfast or slow-cooking a stew for dinner, these sets make camp food taste like home. In this guide, we will look at the best options to help you cook like a pro under the stars.
Contents
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 9 Cast Iron Skillet Camping Set Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5-Piece Cookware Set Includes Skillets, Dutch Oven, and Griddle, Black
This cast iron skillet camping set from Lodge is the gold standard for outdoor cooking. It features a complete range of tools including a dutch oven and a griddle. Each piece comes pre-seasoned and ready for your next adventure.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 10.5-inch griddle and 8-inch skillet
- ✓ 5-quart dutch oven with self-basting cover
- ✓ Pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
- ✓ Built with easy-grip handles for better control
- ✓ Made in the USA with heavy-duty cast iron
Why We Recommend It
Lodge has a reputation for making iron that lasts for generations. This set covers every meal from pancakes on the griddle to slow-cooked chili in the dutch oven. It is tough enough for an open fire and smooth enough for a kitchen stove.
Best For
Serious campers who want a full kitchen setup that will never break or wear out.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredible heat retention and even cooking
- Comes with everything needed for a group trip
- Seasoning gets better with every single use
- Extremely durable and induction compatible
Cons:
- The entire set is very heavy to transport
- Requires hand washing and immediate drying
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I carefully reviewed both the positive and negative reviews on Amazon before purchasing this set. I could not be happier with the product I received. I went ahead and seasoned them a few times after receiving, although I’m not sure that was necessary. They maintain heat well, and cook evenly.”
Customer Review: “It’s been a little over a year now, and my wife still absolutely loves this set!”
2. 8-Piece Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Cooking Set with Skillets and Wooden Storage Box
If you want a kit that handles everything, this 8-piece set is the ultimate choice. It includes a dutch oven, saucepot, skillet, and even a grill pan for perfect sear marks. To make camp prep even better, consider using a best garlic press set to flavor your marinades before they hit the iron.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 4.5-quart dutch oven for large meals
- ✓ Includes a 2.1-quart saucepot and grill pan
- ✓ Comes with a heavy-duty wooden storage box
- ✓ Dual-function lid that works as a skillet
- ✓ High-quality cast iron that lasts a lifetime
Why We Recommend It
The wooden storage box makes this set stand out for travelers. It keeps your heavy iron organized and prevents it from rolling around in your trunk. The variety of pieces allows you to cook multiple dishes at once over a single fire.
Best For
Family camping trips or off-grid living where you need a complete kitchen solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The wooden box is great for organization
- Includes a lid lifter for safe cooking
- Versatile sizes for different meal types
- Indestructible build quality
Cons:
- The box itself is somewhat heavy and bulky
- The seasoning may need a touch-up upon arrival
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Okay, I was REALLY scared when I purchased this, thinking I was going to get poor quality somewhere. But I have used everything daily since I got it, and I am just SO glad I took the plunge.”
Customer Review: “Starting with the box. Feels a bit under-sturdy. Makes transporting them much easier though. The quality of the cookware itself is very good.”
3. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 3-Piece Skillet Set with 8-Inch, 10.25-Inch, and 12-Inch Frying Pans
Sometimes you just need the essentials. This 3-piece cast iron skillet camping set gives you the most popular skillet sizes for one low price. They are non-toxic, chemical-free, and perfect for searing meat or sautéing veggies.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Three essential sizes: 8, 10.25, and 12 inches
- ✓ PFAS-free and non-toxic surface
- ✓ Seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
- ✓ Superior heat retention for even frying
- ✓ Works on grills, campfires, and stoves
Why We Recommend It
This is the most practical set for those who don’t need a bulky dutch oven. The three sizes allow you to cook a side dish and a main course at the same time. They are easy to pack and clean up quickly after a meal.
Best For
Campers on a budget who want the best quality skillets without extra clutter.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the price
- Lightweight compared to sets with dutch ovens
- American-made quality that lasts years
- Naturally non-stick once seasoned
Cons:
- Does not include lids for the pans
- Handles can get very hot while cooking
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This set is exactly what I needed for my camp kitchen. The variety in sizes means I can cook for just myself or the whole group without taking up too much space.”
Customer Review: “The 12-inch skillet is a beast! It sears steaks perfectly over the campfire. Lodge never lets me down.”
4. 8-Piece Outdoor Camping Cast Iron Dutch Oven Set Includes Tripod, Skillet, and Storage Box
This set is built for the true outdoor enthusiast. It includes a tripod so you can hang your dutch oven directly over the flames. It is a complete cast iron skillet camping set that brings traditional cooking to your campsite.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes a tripod for hanging pots over a fire
- ✓ Lid doubles as a secondary skillet
- ✓ Comes with a portable carrying storage box
- ✓ Pre-seasoned and ready for immediate use
- ✓ Large capacity dutch oven for group meals
Why We Recommend It
The addition of the tripod makes this set very special. Hanging your pot allows for better temperature control when slow-cooking. The dual-function lid is a clever space-saver that effectively gives you an extra pan for free.
Best For
Hunters and backcountry campers who want to cook over an open fire pit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Tripod adds a whole new way to cook
- Storage box keeps everything tidy
- Excellent heat distribution for slow roasting
- Versatile lid-to-skillet design
Cons:
- Tripod could be a bit sturdier for heavy loads
- Storage box is made of thin wood
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Good set for the money. Tripod could be stronger and carry box could be more robust, but for the money I spent, it performs nicely.”
Customer Review: “Poor quality, several pieces were broken. Came from overseas, so shipping took forever.”
5. EWFEN Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 3-Piece Skillet Set Includes 6, 8, and 10-Inch Frying Pans
EWFEN offers a professional-grade cast iron skillet camping set that is heat-safe up to 500°F. These pans are designed with a smooth finish that provides a natural non-stick surface. They are perfect for both indoor kitchens and outdoor grills.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Three handy sizes: 6, 8, and 10 inches
- ✓ PFOA and PTFE-free for healthy cooking
- ✓ Precision heat distribution for even browning
- ✓ Heavy-duty construction that resists warping
- ✓ Pre-seasoned with 100% natural oil
Why We Recommend It
These pans are slightly smaller than other sets, making them much easier to pack into a backpack. The 6-inch pan is perfect for a single egg or a side of cornbread. They feel very solid and have a high-quality finish for the price.
Best For
Solo travelers or couples who want a light but durable iron set.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very smooth cooking surface
- Compact sizes for easier storage
- Scratch-resistant and very durable
- Great price point for three pans
Cons:
- The 6-inch pan is very small for main meals
- Requires consistent seasoning to stay non-stick
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very good quality and durable they work great and they look good and definitely scratch resistant and they are a good size one little one and two big ones”
Customer Review: “This set of pans are definitely worth the price. They are perfect!”
6. Bruntmor 7-Piece Camping Cast Iron Cookware Set with Dutch Oven and Skillets
Bruntmor provides everything you need to cook a gourmet meal in the woods. This 7-piece cast iron skillet camping set includes a dutch oven, griddle, skillet, and even a saucepot. It is built to handle open flames without warping.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes Dutch oven, griddle, saucepot, and skillet
- ✓ Comes with a dedicated lid lifter for safety
- ✓ Protective storage carrying box included
- ✓ Pre-seasoned for instant outdoor use
- ✓ Large enough to cook for 5-8 people
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the most complete sets on the market. Having a dedicated saucepot is a game-changer for heating up beans or making coffee. The protective box ensures your gear stays clean and doesn’t rust between trips.
Best For
Large groups or families who enjoy elaborate campfire cooking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Most pieces for the price
- Handles high temperatures with ease
- Carrying box is very helpful
- Lid lifter is a necessary safety tool
Cons:
- The seasoning can be a bit uneven from the factory
- Very heavy and hard to pack in small cars
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This set changed how we camp. We made a full roast in the dutch oven and pancakes on the griddle the next morning. It is heavy, but worth every pound.”
Customer Review: “Great quality set that doesn’t break the bank. Just make sure to oil them after every use to prevent any rust spots.”
7. Amazon Basics 5-Piece Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware Set with Griddle and Dutch Oven
Amazon Basics delivers a high-value cast iron skillet camping set that rivals more expensive brands. It includes the most popular cooking surfaces: two skillets, a griddle, and a dutch oven. It is oven-safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a versatile tool for any kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 10.5-inch griddle for perfect searing
- ✓ Includes 8-inch and 10.25-inch skillets
- ✓ 10.25-inch Dutch oven with matching lid
- ✓ Even heat distribution across all surfaces
- ✓ Pre-seasoned for a quick start
Why We Recommend It
If you want a dependable set without paying for a brand name, this is the one. It feels heavy and well-made. The flat griddle is specifically great for pancakes or bacon over a gas camp stove.
Best For
Occasional campers who want a solid set that also works well at home.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price for the number of pieces
- Even heating with no hot spots
- Easy to clean once seasoned properly
- Standard sizes that fit most camp stoves
Cons:
- The surface is slightly rougher than premium brands
- Needs extra oiling to prevent sticking at first
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love my cast iron pots. They nice and heavy and I love cooking with them. Good price and I rated five stars.”
Customer Review: “I replaced my older non-stick pans with cast iron to reduce PFAS in my kitchen. The non-stick quality is great, the size of the flat griddle was awesome for pancakes.”
8. MegaChef 5-Piece Pre-Seasoned Oven-Safe Cast Iron Cookware Set
MegaChef offers a rugged 5-piece cast iron skillet camping set that is designed for both indoor and outdoor grilling. It includes a griddle, a skillet, and a dutch oven. To help with the prep work for your camp chili, using a best garlic press set can save you time when mincing ingredients on a small camp table.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes griddle, skillet, and dutch oven with lid
- ✓ Oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit
- ✓ Durable cast iron material that holds heat
- ✓ Perfect sizes for group breakfast or dinner
- ✓ Pre-seasoned for a natural finish
Why We Recommend It
This set strikes a good balance between weight and cooking area. The griddle is particularly well-sized for cooking burgers or grilled cheese. It is a reliable choice for anyone who wants to start their cast iron collection without spending too much.
Best For
Car camping where you have a little extra room for heavy cookware.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable for a 5-piece set
- Heavy-duty feel that inspires confidence
- Good heat distribution for baking bread
- Sizes are useful for many different recipes
Cons:
- The factory seasoning is very thin
- Not as smooth as premium brands like Lodge
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love this cast iron set. Out of the box, it’s easy to tell the factory preseason is only meant to get them through shipping. They are not ready to cook with out of the box. Seasoning is the most important act of kindness.”
Customer Review: “Bought these as a Christmas gift for my daughter. I must say, this is a must have set! Great quality, perfect sizes for all cooking!”
9. Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 3-Piece Skillet Set with Heat-Resistant Silicone Handles
This cast iron skillet camping set stands out because it includes heat-resistant silicone handles. These handles are essential for campfire cooking where metal gets hot fast. You get three useful sizes that can handle everything from frying fish to sautéing onions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Three skillets: 6, 8, and 10 inches
- ✓ Includes 3 detachable heat-resistant silicone handles
- ✓ Superior heat retention for even cooking
- ✓ Compatible with all heat sources including fire pits
- ✓ Versatile enough for BBQ, frying, and grilling
Why We Recommend It
The silicone handles are a huge bonus for campers. You don’t have to worry about finding a pot holder or a towel in the dark. The pans themselves are well-weighted and perform excellently over an open flame.
Best For
Beginners who are nervous about handling hot cast iron over a fire.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Silicone handles save your hands from burns
- Great variety of sizes for different tasks
- Very affordable price for the quality
- Pans are deep enough for frying
Cons:
- The 6-inch pan is a bit small for most main dishes
- Silicone handles should not be left on in high heat
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Though the small pan is almost too small to use, this is still a great value. I’ve paid double this price for a single pan in the past, the two larger pans are great.”
Customer Review: “Perfect sizes at a great price. The pans clean up easily if you take the time to season correctly and they won’t rust.”
Complete Buying Guide for Cast Iron Skillet Camping Set
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking a cast iron skillet camping set, weight is the first thing to think about. Cast iron is very heavy, so make sure you have a way to carry it to your campsite. You also want to look at the number of pieces. A set with a dutch oven is great for stews, but a simple 3-piece skillet set is easier to pack. Always check if the set is pre-seasoned. This means it has a layer of oil baked into the metal to prevent rust and sticking. If you want to make your cooking prep even easier, look for tools like a best garlic press set to add fresh flavor to your camp meals without a lot of chopping.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get good iron. Some budget sets under $50 are just as tough as the fancy ones. However, premium brands often have a smoother finish and better factory seasoning. If you plan to camp every weekend, spending a little more for a brand like Lodge might be worth it for the long run. If you only camp once a year, a basic set from Amazon or MegaChef will do just fine.
Final Thoughts
Cast iron is the ultimate tool for any outdoor chef. It doesn’t care if it’s over a gas burner or a roaring fire. Once you find the right set, it will become a part of your camping traditions. Just remember to keep it dry and oiled, and it will serve you for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I clean my cast iron camping set?
A: Use warm water and a stiff brush. Do not use soap unless it is very mild, as it can strip the seasoning. Always dry it immediately and apply a thin layer of oil before storing.
Q: Can I use cast iron on a glass-top stove?
A: Yes, but be careful not to drop it or slide it, as it can scratch the glass. It works perfectly on almost all heat sources.
Q: What does pre-seasoned mean?
A: It means the manufacturer has already applied a layer of vegetable oil and baked it at high heat. This creates a natural non-stick surface and protects the iron from rust.
Q: Is cast iron too heavy for backpacking?
A: Usually, yes. Cast iron is best for car camping or places where you don’t have to carry your gear very far on foot.
A high-quality cast iron skillet camping set is more than just cookware; it is an investment in better meals and great memories. From the classic durability of Lodge to the convenience of a set with a wooden box, there is an option for every kind of adventurer. Grab your favorite set, head into the wild, and start cooking something amazing tonight!
