
For RVers, a reliable camp stove is essential. Tailored for those who know the joys and challenges of outdoor cooking, these stoves offer the power, efficiency, and versatility needed to craft everything from quick breakfasts to gourmet dinners, no matter where your travel takes you. This guide highlights our top four picks of the best camping stoves that balance portability, efficiency, and performance.
Camping Stoves Comparison Table
This quick overview will help you identify the top camping stoves for your needs, whether you prioritize performance, portability, or budget-friendliness.
Product | Camp Chef Everest 2X | Coleman Cascade™ Classic | Jetboil Genesis Basecamp | Coleman Cascade™ 3-in-1 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Image | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | |
Price | $189.99 | $99.99 | $239.99 | $209.99 |
Burners | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
BTUs | 20,000 per burner | 10,000 per burner | 10,000 per burner | 12,000 per burner |
Fuel Type | Liquefied Petroleum Gas | Propane | Propane | Propane |
Ignition | Rotary | Rotary | Lever | Rotary |
Boil Time (Tested with 1L water) | 3 minutes, 17 seconds | 5 minutes 23 seconds | 4 minutes, 30 seconds | 4 minutes, 23 seconds |
Material | Alloy steel | Chrome-plated grate/aluminized steel cooktop | Aluminum | Cast iron cook grate/ Aluminized steel cooktop |
Weight | 12 lbs | 11 lbs | 9 lb 1.6 oz | 26.15 lbs |
Packed Size | 24 x 6 x 13 IN | 21 x 12.8 x 3.6 IN | 10.3 x 7.2 IN | 22 x 13.2 x 3.7 IN |
Warranty | 1-year warranty | 3-Year warranty | 1-year warranty | 3-Year warranty |
1. Camp Chef Everest 2X: Top Pick for Overall Performance and Durability
Price:
Features:
- Two 20,000 BTU burners: Ideal for both rapid boiling and precise simmering, enabling a wide range of cooking tasks, from frying to slow cooking.
- Windscreen with secure locks: These sturdy shields protect the flame in windy conditions, maintaining consistent performance. Along with the folding lid, it provides a 3-sided protection from wind.
- Matchless ignition: No matches or lighters are needed, ensuring effortless start-up with the twist of a knob.
- Generous cooking area: The large surface easily fits two pots or pans, accommodating meals for groups or families.
- Portable design: At 12 lbs, the stove is heavier than some but packs compactly for easy transportation.
Pros:
- Output: High heat output for versatile and fast cooking needs.
- Wind resistance: The folding lid provides an excellent 3-sided windscreen and flame stability.
- Construction: Users find that the construction is robust and durable.
Cons:
- Portability: Some users may find it a bit bulky due to its wide design and a single handle on the back.
- Igniter Issues: Some users reported that the igniter stopped working after a few uses.
2. Coleman Cascade™ Classic Camping Stove: Top Budget Pick
Source: Coleman Cascade Classic Camp Stove
Price:
Features:
- Two 10,000 BTU burners: Provides steady and efficient heat for common cooking tasks like boiling water or frying eggs.
- Durable frame: It is built with a chrome-plated grate and an aluminized steel cooktop to withstand rough outdoor conditions.
- Quick Cleaning: The removable grate and cooktop make it easy to clean.
- User-friendly knobs: Simple and precise controls make it easy to manage the flame intensity for different cooking styles.
- Compact size: Convenient for transportation and storage.
Pros:
- Price: Affordable without compromising on essential features.
- Portability: Lightweight and portable design for easy handling.
- Cost-effective: Offers excellent value for money while retaining essential features.
- Easy portability: Lightweight design ensures effortless transportation and convenient handling.
- Built to last: Praised by numerous users for its robust construction and long-lasting reliability.
Cons:
- Wind resistance limitations: Users report that it provides only moderate performance in windy conditions compared to higher-end models.
- Igniter reliability: Some users have experienced inconsistent functionality with the igniter.
3. Jetboil Genesis Basecamp Stove: Top Choice for Portability & All-in-One Cooking
Price:
Features:
- Two 10,000 BTU burners with precision control: Allows for delicate simmering as well as high-heat cooking, ideal for a variety of recipes.
- 5L FluxPot and 10-inch fry pan: Perfect for group cooking with the generous 5L pot and 10-inch ceramic-coated non-stick pan.
- Smart foldable design: The clamshell-like design provides excellent portability by packing the stove, pot, and pan into a compact, durable case.
- JetLink compatibility: Easily connects to other Jetboil stoves or accessories, enabling expanded cooking setups for larger groups.
- Lightweight build at (approx) 9.2 lbs: Perfect for campers prioritizing portability without compromising functionality.
Pros:
- Precision and versatility: Jetboil-regulated stoves offer four full turns of the spindle for precise fuel flow control, ensuring consistent heat output from a light simmer to a rolling boil.
- Compact and integrated design: Features an all-in-one foldable system for effortless storage and portability complete with a carrying bag.
- Expandable cooking range: Jetboil’s dual-burner design operates as a standalone stove or integrates seamlessly with other JetLink-compatible stoves and the Luna Satellite Burner, creating a versatile outdoor cooking setup.
Cons:
- Windscreen’s durability: Windscreens are reported to be flimsy and may require reinforcement for optimal performance.
- Higher price point: Some users feel that the stove costs more than standard two-burner stoves.
4. Coleman Cascade™ 3-in-1 Camping Stove: Top Choice for Versatility and Multi-Style Cooking
Price:
Features:
- Two 12,000 BTU burners: Provides ample heat for both high-temperature searing and gentle simmering, accommodating a range of cooking needs.
- Interchangeable cast iron plates: Includes grill and griddle attachments, allowing campers to diversify their cooking options.
- Heavy-duty latch and frame: Ensures the stove remains securely closed during transport while the durable frame withstands tough outdoor conditions.
- Reliable Instastart ignition system: Built-in igniter lights quickly and efficiently, reducing the hassle of manual ignition.
- Large cooking area: The spacious surface accommodates large pans or the included grill plates for group meals.
Pros:
- Versatile design: Caters to multiple cooking styles as it includes a grill and a griddle.
- Sturdy cast iron components: The grill and griddle are made of cast iron for durability and even heat distribution.
- Ignition system: Rotary ignition for quick, matchless lighting. Users have left positive reviews about the durability of the igniter.
Cons:
- Weighty design: At 26.15 lbs, the stove is heavier than most two-burner options, potentially limiting portability.
- Wind guard performance: The wind guards may not provide sufficient protection in particularly breezy conditions, affecting flame stability.
How We Compared and Picked the Top Camping Stoves
When selecting the best camping stoves for RVers and outdoor enthusiasts, we evaluated them based on practical usability, versatility, and value. Here’s what we looked at:
- Heat Output and Control:
We evaluated each stove’s BTU capacity, as a higher BTU output allows quicker boiling and cooking. Additionally, precise flame control ensures versatility, catering to a variety of cooking needs. - Portability and Size:
The weight and dimensions of each stove were analyzed to ensure they fit seamlessly into RV storage without adding unnecessary bulk. Foldable designs and integrated storage solutions were prioritized as they enhance convenience for RVers frequently on the move. - Versatility:
Stoves with multi-functional features, such as griddles, grills, or compatibility with additional accessories were rated higher for their ability to handle diverse cooking needs. Models supporting a range of cooking styles, from quick one-pot meals to gourmet dishes, proved essential for campers seeking flexibility in their outdoor kitchens. - Durability and Weather Resistance:
We considered materials that could withstand the wear and tear of outdoor conditions, ensuring long-term reliability. Performance in windy situations was particularly important, with built-in windshields being a critical feature for maintaining consistent cooking even in challenging weather. - Ease of Use:
Intuitive controls, reliable ignition systems, and hassle-free setup and takedown processes were essential for making outdoor cooking less stressful. Stoves that streamlined meal preparation with user-friendly features stood out as ideal choices for RVers. - Value for Money:
We compared pricing against features to ensure that the stoves delivered practical benefits and durability at a reasonable cost. Affordable options were highlighted as long as they retained key functionalities for effective outdoor cooking.
Enjoy Outdoor Cooking With the Right Camping Stove
Selecting the right camping stove can make all the difference in your outdoor cooking experience. From lightweight options perfect for portability to multi-functional designs catering to diverse culinary needs, our recommendations for camping stoves ensure that your meals are as memorable as your adventures. Check this guide for tips and recommendations on outfitting your RV camping adventures.