8 Best Small Camp Grills of 2026

Fire in a compact frame—the Gas One 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill delivers impressive heat retention and uniform cooking in a surprisingly small package. Its 3-point locking lid is a game-changer, transforming this little grill into a mini oven or smoker by sealing in heat like a pro-grade unit. Paired with a dual venting system, it gives you real control over airflow, making it ideal for everything from slow-cooked vegetables to seared steaks—perfect for campers who hate unevenly grilled food.

In real-world use, the 150-square-inch cooking surface handles two full meals for two people, though it struggles with larger cuts like whole chickens. The compact design shines during car camping and backyard cookouts—lightweight and easy to set up, it heats up fast over standard charcoal. However, wind exposure can disrupt temperature stability, and the vents aren’t as finely adjustable as on premium models. Still, the built-in ash catcher keeps cleanup tidy, a rare win in this price range.

Compared to the Cuisinart B00B58A0QU, this grill offers better heat containment but slightly less cooking area. It’s not as featherlight as backpacking grills, so it’s best suited for car-based adventures or patio use. If you prioritize consistent cooking results over ultra-light portability, this model outperforms most in its class. It packs more grilling intelligence than the Bodkar budget option, making it a smarter pick for frequent outdoor cooks.

Effortless portability meets smart grilling design—the Cuisinart 14″ Portable Charcoal Grill is a masterclass in lightweight efficiency, tipping the scales at just 4 lbs. Its chrome-plated cooking grate resists rust and wipes clean with ease, while the dual adjustable vents give you precise command over temperature—whether you’re searing hot dogs or slow-smoking sausages. For tailgaters and weekend campers, this grill solves the classic dilemma: how to bring real charcoal flavor without the bulk.

Out in the field, it heats up quickly and holds steady at medium temps, though it cools fast in windy conditions due to its minimal mass. The 196 sq. in. cooking surface comfortably fits six burgers or a full rack of ribs—larger than the Gas One—and the enamel-coated firebox simplifies ash removal. But don’t expect deep smoke infusion; its open design lacks the oven-like seal of models with locking lids. It’s best for quick grills, not low-and-slow sessions.

Against the Gas One, this Cuisinart offers more cooking space and easier cleanup, but with weaker heat retention. It’s less of a backyard workhorse and more of a grab-and-go companion—perfect for picnics, RV trips, or balcony grilling where every ounce matters. While the Megamaster gas model delivers faster heat, this one wins on simplicity and flavor. For travelers who want maximum convenience with solid performance, this is the gold standard.

Born for the trail—the Coghlan’s Pack Grill is the ultralight champion of outdoor grills, weighing in at just 24 oz and folding flat like a notebook. Built from durable chrome-plated steel, it’s designed to support pots and pans over open flames, making it a backpacker’s secret weapon for boiling water or frying up camp meals. Unlike traditional grills, it’s not for direct grilling, but that’s the point: it’s a minimalist cooking platform that thrives where bulkier grills fail.

In rugged terrain, this grill proves its worth—set it over a campfire and it stays stable under a pot of stew or a skillet of eggs. The 12.5″ x 6.5″ surface fits most compact cookware, and its foldable legs deploy in seconds with zero tools. However, it doesn’t handle high heat well over prolonged use, and the chrome plating can degrade with abrasive cleaning. It’s not meant for sizzling steaks, but for backcountry cooks prioritizing weight and packability, it’s unmatched.

Compared to the MDUG Ultralight Mini Camp Grill, it lacks the 304 stainless steel durability and dual-height options, but it’s slightly cheaper and equally compact. It’s a no-frills, functional tool—ideal for thru-hikers, solo adventurers, or anyone who measures gear in grams. While the Bearfire grill offers more versatility, this one wins on pure portability and simplicity. If your mission is to go far and light, this grill earns its place in your pack.

Powerhouse performance on the go—the Megamaster 1-Burner Portable Gas Grill unleashes 11,000 BTUs of fast, consistent heat from a stainless steel burner that ignites reliably in any weather. With a 360 sq in cooking space, it’s the largest in this lineup—capable of feeding a small crowd at a tailgate or campsite. The foldable legs and locking lid make it easy to transport and store, while the porcelain firebox ensures even heat distribution and rapid searing. For gas grill lovers, this is serious firepower in a compact form.

In action, it reaches grilling temps in under five minutes and maintains them effortlessly, even in mild wind. The removable grease tray simplifies cleanup, and the LP compatibility means you can use standard camping propane bottles. It’s stable on uneven ground, though the legs aren’t adjustable. The only real flaw? It’s heavy at nearly 18 lbs, making it a poor fit for backpacking—this is a car camper’s dream, not a hiker’s.

Stacked against the Cuisinart charcoal model, it delivers faster heat, more power, and better consistency, but sacrifices the smoky flavor charcoal provides. It’s far more capable than the Bodkar mini grill, offering professional-level cooking in a mobile unit. For those who want gas convenience with real grilling capacity, this model is the undisputed leader. It doesn’t beat the Bearfire in raw durability, but it dominates in cooking performance and ease of use.

The ultimate minimalist marvel—the MDUG Ultralight Mini Camp Grill redefines portable cooking with its 304 stainless steel construction and 16 oz weight, combining rugged durability with featherlight portability. Its pressure-welded weave mesh supports up to 100 lbs without bending, making it shockingly strong for its size. Whether perched on a gas stove or over a campfire, it delivers a stable, even cooking surface in a package smaller than a hardcover book.

Field-tested across backpacking trips and riverbank picnics, this grill excels in space-constrained scenarios—it folds to just 1″ thick, fits in a daypack, and deploys in seconds. The dual-height legs let you adjust for simmering or searing, and the included carry bag doubles as a gear organizer. While it’s not a full grill, it’s a versatile cooking platform ideal for frying, boiling, or grilling small portions. Just don’t expect to cook for more than one or two.

Compared to the Coghlan’s model, it uses superior 304 stainless steel instead of chrome-plated steel, offering better corrosion resistance and longevity. It’s pricier than the budget Bodkar, but far more durable and multi-functional. For backpackers, solo travelers, and ultralight adventurers, this is the best overall balance of strength, weight, and utility. It doesn’t cook like the Megamaster, but it outperforms every other mini grill in reliability and packability.

Built for the wild—the Adventure Seeka Folding Campfire Grill is engineered for over-fire dominance, with a heavy-duty steel grate and food-safe high-temp coating that laughs at open flames. Its grill-and-griddle hybrid design is pure genius—half grated, half solid—so you can fry eggs while grilling bacon, all over the same fire. For campers tired of juggling multiple pots, this is a one-surface solution that delivers real kitchen functionality in the woods.

In real fires, it stays rock-solid thanks to wide folding legs that resist wobbling, even on uneven ground. The solid steel construction handles cast iron pans like a pro, and the compact fold makes it easy to stash in an RV or car trunk. However, it’s too large for backpacks and best suited for car camping or overlanding. It doesn’t have temperature controls like gas grills, but that’s not the point—it’s about raw, open-fire versatility.

Compared to the Bearfire grill, it offers smarter cooking zones but less overall size. Against the Coghlan’s, it’s heavier but infinitely more capable. It’s the best over-fire cooking tool here—ideal for families, RVers, or anyone who cooks full meals at the campsite. While it can’t match the Megamaster’s BTUs, it beats every other model in multi-food flexibility and fire-ready toughness.

Big flavor in a tiny body—the Bodkar Charcoal Grill is the budget king, offering a notebook-sized design that folds up like a book and fits in any backpack. Despite its $10 price tag, it delivers real grilling performance with a 304 stainless steel rack and iron steel body that withstands high heat. For solo diners or couples, it’s perfect for quick steaks, hot dogs, or veggies—using minimal charcoal for maximum flavor.

In practice, it heats up fast and grills evenly for its size, though it’s easily overwhelmed by wind. The 8.5×6 inch grate fits about six hot dogs, and cleanup is a breeze—just disassemble the five pieces and rinse. However, it requires a heat-resistant mat on surfaces, and the lack of airflow control means temperature tweaks are guesswork. It’s best for occasional use where space and cost matter most.

Against the Cuisinart, it’s cheaper but far less refined. Compared to the Gas One, it lacks heat retention and vents. But for ultra-budget campers or first-timers, it’s a no-risk entry point into portable grilling. It doesn’t compete with the Megamaster or Bearfire in power, but it delivers surprising value for the price—beating every other small grill on affordability and simplicity.

Built like a tank—the Bearfire Camping Grill is the heavy-duty hero, forged from 1.5mm thickened iron that resists warping even at 1500°F. Its 3-in-1 design works as a charcoal grill, fire pit, and cooktop, making it one of the most versatile camp grills available. With a 304 stainless steel grate and tool-free assembly, it sets up in 90 seconds and collapses to a 2-inch flat pack—ideal for RV storage or car camping.

On the ground, it’s rock-stable and handles large meals with ease—perfect for family cookouts or group camping. The high-temp coating prevents rust, and the included carry bag keeps everything clean and organized. But its 7.7 lb weight and bulky folded size make it a non-starter for backpackers. It’s also overkill for solo trips—this is a group gear powerhouse.

Compared to the Campfire Adventure Seeka, it offers larger cooking space but lacks the griddle combo feature. Against the Megamaster, it’s more durable but lacks gas precision. For serious campers who want a long-lasting, multi-role grill, this is the top pick. It doesn’t heat as fast as gas models, but it beats every other grill in raw durability and versatility.