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A camping griddle needs to heat evenly across the surface, but the lightest models often develop hot spots, while heavy cast iron ones are a chore to carry. The real challenge is finding a griddle that balances heat distribution and portability for your style of camping.
Propane griddles offer convenience and easy cleanup, but some suffer from uneven burners or fragile coatings. Cast iron pans handle flames and coals beautifully but require seasoning and weigh enough to notice in a backpack.
This guide focuses on griddles that solve that trade-off — models from trusted brands that deliver consistent heat without demanding you sacrifice your back or your weekend.
Best for Most Campers
Blackstone 1666 22"
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 361 sq in
- Burners: 2 H-shaped
- Weight: 25.3 lbs
- Grease System: Rear grease trough
- Price: Mid-Range
Two H-shaped burners heat the 361-square-inch cooking surface evenly, with quick preheat times that hold temperature well across the full area. The rear grease management system collects runoff into a removable tray, keeping the cooking surface clear during longer sessions.
At 25.3 pounds, the 1666 is light enough to carry from car to picnic table without straining. Setup takes minutes: attach the propane tank, push the piezo igniter, and start cooking. Cleaning is equally direct — scrape residue into the rear tray and wipe the steel surface.
This griddle suits campers and RV owners who want a standalone propane flat-top for groups up to four. The compact footprint fits on most camp tables, and the steel construction holds up to repeated trips. Some units arrive with missing screws or minor packaging scuffs — not a performance issue, but worth inspecting before the first outing.
Compared to smaller single-burner options, the 1666 offers more surface area and better heat uniformity without the hot spot issues common in compact griddles. The dual burners let you adjust heat zones for different foods, which matters when cooking breakfast and sides simultaneously.
Pros
- Solid steel build stays flat and holds heat consistently
- Compact size at 25.3 lbs fits car camping and RV storage easily
- Dual H-burners heat the full surface evenly with quick warm-up
- Rear grease tray and smooth steel surface simplify post-cooking cleanup
Cons
- Some deliveries arrive with missing hardware or cosmetic box damage, requiring a quick inventory check
For campers who prioritize even heat, portability, and easy cleanup in a propane griddle, the 1666 delivers without fuss. The occasional shipping hiccup is manageable with a brief inspection.
Best for Campfire & Stovetop
Lodge Pro-Grid 20"
Unlike propane griddles that require fuel canisters and a dedicated burner, the Lodge Pro-Grid uses a solid cast iron surface that sits directly on campfire grates, large stovetop burners, or even in the oven. At 20 inches long, it provides ample cooking space for burgers, pancakes, and vegetables without the need for a separate propane tank or regulator.
This griddle is best for campers who cook over open fire or on a large camp stove, and for home cooks who want a reversible grill/griddle for stovetop use. The 13.5 lb weight means it is not something you will want to carry on a hike, but it is manageable for car camping or RV trips. The cast iron requires a layer of seasoning to prevent sticking and rust, so expect a learning curve if you are new to cast iron care.
Build quality is robust — with proper maintenance this pan will outlast multiple camping seasons. The reversible design offers a flat griddle side for pancakes and eggs and a raised grill side for steaks and vegetables, though the grill ridges are shallow compared to dedicated grill pans. Heat retention is strong once preheated, keeping food hot even when the fire wanes.
Pros
- Cast iron construction that holds up to high heat and rough outdoor use.
- Reversible design offers both flat top and grill surfaces for different meals.
- Maintains heat well once preheated, suitable for cooking over variable fire temperatures.
Cons
- At 13.5 lbs, carrying it from car to campsite or washing in a small sink will be a workout.
- Cleaning takes more effort than nonstick pans; food tends to stick if the seasoning is not well established.
- Non-stick performance depends on seasoning quality — new users will likely experience sticking until the surface builds a patina.
If you need a large cast iron griddle for campfire or stovetop cooking at a low price, and you are willing to manage its weight and seasoning, this is a durable alternative to propane griddles.
Best for Portable Nonstick
SENSARTE Reversible
Key Features
- Weight: 2.7 lbs
- Material: Cast Aluminum
- Grease System: Grease trap
- Price: Budget
The SENSARTE reversible griddle weighs just 2.7 pounds, making it the lightest portable cooking surface for campers who hike to their site. Its cast aluminum body and Swiss ILAG nonstick coating heat quickly and release food easily, unlike heavy cast iron alternatives. However, the lightweight build means it can warp under high heat, so this griddle is best matched with a camp stove on medium flame rather than an open fire.
This griddle suits backpackers, solo campers, or anyone who prioritizes a light pack and simple cleanup over a pan that lasts a decade. The nonstick surface will stay effective for several seasons of moderate use, but heavy use at high temperatures can accelerate wear and cause warping. If you replace cookware every few years, the tradeoff is well worth it for the weight savings.
The reversible design offers both a flat side for eggs and pancakes and a ribbed side for grill marks on meat. Heat distribution is even across the 19.5-inch surface, and the grease channel keeps runoff contained. Cleaning is simple — a quick wipe or a trip through the dishwasher, and you are ready for the next meal.
Pros
- Weighs only 2.7 pounds — the lightest griddle for packing into campsites.
- Cleans up with a quick wipe or in the dishwasher; nonstick surface releases food easily.
- Heats up fast and distributes heat evenly across the smooth cooking surface.
Cons
- Nonstick coating can lose its release properties over time with regular use.
- May warp when exposed to high heat, such as on a gas grill or over a campfire.
The SENSARTE griddle earns its place for campers who value light weight and easy cleaning over rugged durability — keep the heat in check and it will serve through many trips.
Best for Solo & Couples
Blackstone 1971 17"
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 267 sq in
- Burners: 1 H-style
- Weight: 17.5 lbs
- Grease System: Rear grease trough
- Price: Budget
The 17-inch tabletop design folds into a compact package at 17.5 lbs, making it the go-to propane griddle for campers who need to save trunk space. The rear grease management and piezo ignition are features usually found on larger models, and they work just as well here.
This griddle is best suited for solo campers or couples cooking for two. The 267 sq in surface handles a few burgers or a batch of pancakes, but a hot spot in the center means you’ll want to move food around for even browning. That tradeoff is less noticeable when cooking one item at a time.
The steel plate heats up quickly, and the non-slip feet keep it stable on uneven picnic tables. Cleanup is easy thanks to the rear grease tray. If you are feeding three or more, the larger 22-inch Blackstone offers more cooking area and dual burners.
Pros
- Portable 17.5-pound build fits easily on a picnic table or tailgate.
- Rear grease management keeps mess off the cooking surface during use.
- Sturdy steel construction holds up to repeated camping trips.
- Piezo ignition eliminates the need for matches or lighters.
Cons
- Center hot spot can cause uneven browning; rotating food helps.
For solo campers and couples who value a lightweight, easy-to-transport propane griddle, this Blackstone delivers proven build quality at a budget-friendly price.
Best for Large Groups
Camp Chef SG60
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 448 sq in
- Weight: 33.3 lbs
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Grease System: Front grease trough
- Price: Mid-Range
The Camp Chef SG60 delivers a massive 448-square-inch cooking area with built-in diffuser plates that spread heat evenly across the steel surface. The pre-seasoned alloy steel construction gives it a tank-like feel that stands up to frequent campsite use.
In practice, the griddle heats uniformly with minimal hot spots, though some users note a slightly cooler area in the center between the two burners. This is not a deal-breaker for most large-group cooking sessions and can be managed with a short preheat.
This griddle is purpose-built for car campers or tailgaters cooking for a crowd on a sturdy camp stove or table. At 33 pounds, it is not practical for backpacking or any trip where weight matters. It pairs best with a Camp Chef stove or similar heavy-duty support.
Pros
- Durable steel construction that holds up to heavy campsite use
- Even heat distribution across the entire 448 sq in surface
- Large cooking area ideal for feeding big groups at once
Cons
- A slight cool spot may appear in the center between burners
- Extremely heavy at 33 lbs, making transport a challenge
If you car camp with a large group and have a sturdy table or stove, the SG60 offers unmatched cooking capacity. For lighter trips, consider a cast iron reversible griddle instead.
Best for Budget Campers
Royal Gourmet PD1301S
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 304 sq in
- Burners: 3 (25,500 BTU)
- Weight: 27.6 lbs
- Grease System: Removable grease cup
- Price: Budget
The Royal Gourmet PD1301S is the least expensive way to get a three-burner propane griddle with 304 square inches of cooking space — enough to cook eggs, pancakes, and bacon for a small group. Compared to the Blackstone 1666 (top pick), it saves roughly $40 but comes with trade-offs in heat distribution and build quality.
This griddle suits occasional campers or tailgaters who cook simple meals and prioritize low cost over perfect temperature control. The front of the griddle runs cooler than the back, so foods may cook at different rates across the surface. Some units also arrive with dents or scratched porcelain, and the coating can bubble after repeated high-heat use — issues that matter less for someone using the griddle a few times per season.
Pros
- Great value compared to similar three-burner models
- Large cooking surface for its footprint (304 sq in)
- Easy to assemble, use, and clean after cooking
Cons
- Front of griddle runs cooler than back, creating hot spots
- Some units arrive with dents, scratches, or chipped porcelain; coating may bubble over time
For occasional campers who cook basic meals and accept the front-to-back temperature variation, this is the most affordable way to get a three-burner tabletop griddle.
Lodge Ldp3 Griddle
Lodge LDP3 Griddle
This Lodge reversible griddle delivers the same cast iron durability as larger models in a more compact size that fits smaller two-burner stoves and campfires. The flat side handles pancakes and eggs, while the ribbed side sears steaks and veggies. At 9.4 pounds it is lighter than the 20-inch Pro-Grid but still heavy for backpacking, and the lack of handles can make it awkward to lift. Cleaning requires seasoning maintenance and gentle scrubbing to prevent rust, typical for cast iron. The price is budget-friendly, making it a strong choice for car campers who want a reversible pan without spending more.
Pros
- Durable cast iron construction lasts through years of campfire and stove use
- Reversible design provides both flat griddle and ribbed grill surfaces
Cons
- Weighs 9.4 lbs, adding noticeable bulk for campers who hike to their site
- Food can stick if the seasoning layer isn’t maintained, requiring more careful cleaning than nonstick pans
Best for car campers who want a durable, budget cast iron griddle and are comfortable with seasoning maintenance.
Best for Windy Campsites
Blackstone OTG 22"
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 361 sq in
- Burners: 2 independently controlled
- Weight: 42.5 lbs
- Grease System: Rear grease trough
- Price: Premium
This hooded griddle stands out for wind protection and heat retention at the campsite, helping maintain even cooking in breezy conditions. The Omnivore plate works well across different foods without sticking. However, at 42.5 lbs it’s heavier than most portable tabletop models, limiting its use to car camping or tailgating rather than backpacking. Some units may experience auto ignition failure, so a backup lighter is sensible. With less review data and a premium price compared to the top pick, this makes sense for campers who camp in windy spots and prioritize steady heat over portability.
Pros
- Built-in hood shields from wind and retains heat for consistent cooking.
- Rugged build stands up to repeated camping trips.
Cons
- At 42.5 lbs, this griddle is heavy for a tabletop model — best for car camping where weight isn’t a concern.
- Auto ignition may fail occasionally; a backup lighter is useful.
For campers who regularly face gusty conditions and want a griddle that holds steady heat, the OTG’s hood delivers a real advantage — just be ready for the weight and bring a lighter.
Best for Budget Large Area
Royal Gourmet PD3001
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 314 sq in
- Burners: 3 (8,500 BTU each)
- Weight: 50.7 lbs
- Material: Ceramic-coated steel
- Price: Mid-Range
The PD3001 delivers a large cooking area with a collapsible stand and side shelf, making it well-suited for groups at a campsite. Assembly can be trying due to misaligned holes, and some units arrive with bent parts or missing hardware, so patience with setup is required. For those who want a spacious surface without a high price tag, it works — but other budget tabletop griddles offer a smoother out-of-box experience.
Pros
- Solid build quality and performance for the price
- Portable design with collapsible stand for easy moving
- Budget-friendly compared to branded alternatives
Cons
- Assembly can be frustrating with misaligned holes and unclear instructions
- Quality control issues possible: bent parts, missing pieces, or rust on arrival
Best for car campers on a tight budget who are willing to spend time on assembly and accept possible QC issues for the large cooking area.
Best for Griddle & Grill Combo
Royal Gourmet PD1305H
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 364 sq in
- Burners: 2 main + 1 side
- Weight: 32.7 lbs
- Material: Porcelain-enameled steel
- Price: Mid-Range
The Royal Gourmet PD1305H combines 364 square inches of cooking area across interchangeable griddle and grill plates, plus a side burner for pots — giving campers a single unit for pancakes, burgers, and coffee. Its heat performance is solid, with fast warm-up and even cooking across the main surfaces. Build quality, however, can vary between units: some arrive with bent parts or a flimsy lid, and at 32.7 pounds it’s heavier than dedicated tabletop griddles. For campers who genuinely need the 3-in-1 flexibility and can tolerate potential assembly or durability hiccups, this is a fair value. If your priority is a straightforward flat-top griddle with consistent construction, a simpler model avoids these compromises.
Pros
- Heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly across both cooking surfaces.
- Feels sturdy enough for regular camping trips when assembled properly.
Cons
- Build quality can vary between units, with some showing bent parts or a flimsy lid.
This combo suits car campers who want one appliance for both griddle and grill cooking and are willing to inspect the unit upon arrival for any build defects.
Camp Chef Reversible Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle 14X16
Camp Chef Reversible Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle 14×16
This griddle fits standard Camp Chef two-burner stoves with precision, offering a reversible cooking surface that works for both flat-top griddling and ribbed grilling. Its cast iron construction delivers even heat retention but brings practical tradeoffs. Some units have experienced cracking when exposed to freezing temperatures, making it less suitable for winter camping. At 10 pounds and requiring regular seasoning, it demands more maintenance than a propane griddle. For Camp Chef owners who cook in moderate climates and don’t mind cast iron upkeep, it’s a budget-friendly dedicated accessory.
Pros
- Fits Camp Chef 14-inch and 16-inch burner systems without modification.
- Reversible design provides both flat griddle and ribbed grill surfaces.
- Budget-friendly price for a cast iron griddle of this cooking area.
Cons
- Weighs 10 pounds, limiting portability for backpacking or long hikes.
- Cast iron surface needs regular seasoning and careful cleaning to stay nonstick.
This griddle works best for Camp Chef stove owners who cook in moderate temperatures and are comfortable with cast iron maintenance.
Ewfen Ci Griddle
EWFEN CI Griddle
The EWFEN reversible griddle delivers solid cast iron construction at a price that’s hard to beat — with a flat griddle side and a ribbed grill side, it’s ready for campfire or stove use. However, the 9.9-pound weight makes it a heavy item to carry to a campsite, and some units have been noted to wobble on flat surfaces, which can affect cooking stability. For the extreme budget buyer seeking a functional cast iron griddle, this is a viable option if you can manage the weight and are willing to check for flatness upon arrival.
Pros
- Solid cast iron construction at a budget-friendly price
- Reversible design with flat griddle and ribbed grill surfaces
Cons
- Weight (9.9 lbs) makes it cumbersome for carrying to campsites
- Some units may not sit flat on stove surfaces, causing wobbling
Best suited for budget-conscious campers who don’t mind the weight and can accept potential stability issues — worth considering if you’re willing to inspect the unit upon arrival.
Best for Side Burner
Blackstone 2364 12×14
Key Features
- Cooking Area: 168 sq in
- Burners: 2 (main + side)
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Material: Aluminum
- Grease System: Rear grease trough
- Price: Mid-Range
The 12×14 inch griddle with integrated side burner offers a niche advantage: you can cook breakfast on the flat top while heating soup or coffee on the side burner. That added flexibility is rare in portable griddles this size. The ceramic titanium nonstick coating and briefcase-style carry make it easy to pack and clean. But the main cooking area is small (168 sq in), limiting batch cooking for more than two people. Build quality has some notes — hinge arms and aluminum construction can feel less solid than heavier alternatives. This griddle suits campers who prioritize the side burner feature over a large cooking surface.
Pros
- Side burner allows brewing coffee or heating sauces alongside griddle cooking.
- Nonstick ceramic titanium coating simplifies cleanup after cooking.
- Portable with carry handle and leveling feet for uneven campsite surfaces.
Cons
- Main griddle area of 168 sq in limits batch cooking for more than two people.
- Hinge arms and aluminum top may feel less sturdy over time.
Ideal if you want a side burner for multi-pot camping meals, but the small cooking surface and mixed build quality make it a niche pick rather than a primary griddle.
How to Choose
The most important factor when buying a camping griddle is matching its cooking surface and heat control to your typical meal size and camp setup.
Cooking Surface Area
Larger cooking areas let you feed more people at once, but they also require more space and fuel to heat. A 22-inch griddle comfortably handles breakfast for four, while a 17-inch works for two. The hidden trade-off: bigger surfaces take longer to preheat and are heavier to transport, so match the area to your group size.
Number of Burners
Multiple burners create heat zones for cooking different foods at separate temperatures. Two independently controlled burners allow low heat for eggs and high heat for bacon simultaneously.
More burners add weight and complexity, and each extra burner consumes propane faster. For most campers, two burners strike the right balance. A single burner works for solo cooks but limits multitasking.
Weight
Lightweight griddles (under 10 lbs) are easy to pack but often lack the mass to hold steady heat, leading to temperature drops when food is added. Heavier cast iron or steel griddles retain heat better but strain your back on hiking trails.
Consider your transport mode: car camping can handle 30+ lbs; backpacking or bike touring demands under 5 lbs. Weight also affects stability on uneven campsite tables.
Material
Cast iron delivers unmatched heat retention and can go directly on campfire coals, but it requires seasoning to prevent rust and food sticking. Steel is lighter and heats faster, but may warp under high heat. Aluminum with nonstick coating is lightest and easiest to clean, but the coating can peel over time.
Non-toxic options like cast iron are safer for high-heat cooking, while nonstick surfaces simplify post-meal cleanup. Each material demands different maintenance routines.
Grease Management System
A built-in grease trough or removable cup collects oil and drips, making cleanup a quick wipe instead of a greasy mess. Griddles without this system force you to scrape and soak the surface after cooking greasy foods like bacon.
Rear-mounted troughs are common on propane models and work well when the griddle is level. Some budget griddles omit this feature entirely, so check before buying if easy cleanup is a priority.
FAQ
Can I use a cast iron griddle directly on a campfire?
Yes, but preheat it gradually to avoid thermal shock and cracking. Place it on low coals or embers rather than directly in flames. Use long-handled tools to move it and allow it to cool slowly before cleaning.
Why does my propane griddle have hot and cold spots?
Uneven heat is common on griddles with simple burner designs. H-shaped burners or built-in diffuser plates spread heat more evenly. If your model has cold spots, try preheating longer or adjusting the burner placement relative to the cooking area.
How do I prevent my nonstick griddle from warping?
Avoid high heat settings and never place a cold griddle on a hot burner. Preheat slowly on medium heat and let the griddle cool before washing. Thin aluminum griddles are more prone to warping than heavier steel or cast iron.
Is a 17-inch griddle big enough for camping with a family?
A 17-inch griddle cooks about 4 eggs and 4 pancakes at once, making it tight for a family of four. For groups of 3-4, a 22-inch griddle provides more room for one-pan meals. The 17-inch works best for couples or solo campers.












