8 Best Propane Camp Grills of 2026

Unleash culinary versatility with the Royal Gourmet PD1305H—a game-changing 3-in-1 powerhouse that blends a griddle, grill, and pot-ready side burner into one seamless unit. With 29,000 BTUs of total output—driven by two 8,500 BTU main burners and a 12,000 BTU side burner—this combo delivers restaurant-grade sear potential and simmering finesse, solving the classic camp cook’s dilemma: “Do I bring a grill or a stove?” Its spacious 364 sq. in. cooking surface (211 sq. in. griddle, 153 sq. in. grill) means you can fry eggs and bacon while grilling burgers, all without crowding.

In real-world testing, the stainless steel burners and flame tamers ensured consistent heat distribution, even in breezy tailgate conditions, thanks to the included griddle lid that doubles as a wind guard. Whether flipping pancakes on the porcelain-enameled griddle or searing steaks on the grill grate, temperature control was responsive and reliable. The side burner with lid functioned impressively as a mini prep station or cover shelf, though it struggled slightly with oversized pots. Cleanup was a breeze, thanks to removable grease cups—a rare and welcome feature in portable units.

Compared to the Coleman RoadTrip 285, this grill trades stand-up convenience for greater surface flexibility and higher total heat output. It’s the clear choice for campers, RVers, and tailgaters who prioritize multi-role cooking over minimalist portability. While heavier than single-burner models, its tabletop design still fits snugly in truck beds or tailgates. For those who want one unit that does it all, the PD1305H outperforms similarly priced combos like the Coleman 4-in-1, offering triple the cooking space and nearly four times the BTUs.

Precision simmering meets rugged portability in the Coleman Triton—a reliable workhorse engineered for camp cooks who demand fine-tuned flame control. With 22,000 total BTUs across two independently adjustable burners and improved knob rotation, this stove excels at low-and-slow tasks like simmering sauces or boiling water without scorching. Its dual wind guards are a standout, shielding flames in gusty conditions—perfect for open-field tailgates or exposed campsites—making it a top pick for serious outdoor chefs who hate flare-ups and temperature swings.

During testing, the chrome-plated grates held pans securely, and the 12-inch pan compatibility meant full-pot meals were no issue. The stove lit quickly, maintained steady heat, and allowed micro-adjustments that few portable units offer—something the Royal Gourmet GT1001 can’t match with its single burner. However, it lacks a griddle or grill option, limiting it to pot-and-pan cooking. While it runs efficiently—up to an hour on a 16 oz. cylinder—the burn time is tight for long meals, requiring spare fuel on extended trips.

Against the GasOne GPT-17B, the Triton offers superior temperature precision and dual-burner flexibility, though it doesn’t grill. It’s ideal for backpackers, car campers, and food-focused adventurers who prioritize cooking control over searing power. Compared to the Nexgrill 183 sq. in. model, it lacks grilling space but wins in simmer reliability and wind resistance. If your priority is consistent, adjustable heat for diverse dishes, the Triton outclasses budget grills that can’t modulate flame.

Budget-savvy grilling gets a major upgrade with the GasOne GPT-17B—a no-frills, high-value performer that punches above its price point. Don’t let the low cost fool you: this compact tan grill packs a porcelain-coated non-stick grate and a durable stainless steel burner, delivering even heat and effortless cleanup—a rare combo in sub-$60 grills. Its user-friendly temperature knob offers surprisingly precise control, letting you sear burgers or gently cook veggies without flare-ups, solving the pain point of finicky budget grills that either scorch or underperform.

In real-world use, the heat-resistant handles made transport safe and simple, whether from RV to picnic table or tailgate setup. The cooking surface, while not the largest, handled a full meal for four—think six burgers and veggies—with room to spare. It heated quickly and maintained temperature well in mild conditions, though wind did impact flame stability without additional shielding. The piezo ignition was reliable, and the non-rust construction stood up to humid mornings and occasional spills.

Compared to the Megamaster 820-0065C, it offers similar BTU output but less cooking space—yet wins on build quality and surface non-stick performance. It’s the ideal pick for students, first-time campers, or anyone needing a simple, dependable backup grill. Against the Nexgrill 183 sq. in., it trades some space for better corrosion resistance and a slicker cooking surface. For those who want solid performance without overspending, the GPT-17B delivers where it counts—flavor, ease, and durability—without the frills.

Built like a tank, designed for adventure—the Royal Gourmet GT1001 sets the gold standard for rugged, no-nonsense portability. Crafted with a stainless steel U-shaped burner and tubular construction, this silver tabletop grill radiates industrial-grade durability while maintaining a sleek, minimalist profile. Its 10,000 BTU output delivers fast preheating and solid sear marks, and the 285 sq. in. cooking space (214 sq. in. grate + 71 sq. in. warming rack) is generous for a single-burner unit, making it perfect for weekend warriors who hate sacrificing performance for size.

In field tests, the foldable legs and lockable lid made transport effortless—sliding neatly into an SUV trunk or RV storage bay. The stainless steel grease tray was a standout, catching drippings cleanly and sliding out for quick emptying, a feature missing in cheaper models like the GasOne GPT-17B. Heat distribution was impressively even, though the center zone ran slightly hotter—common in single-burner designs. It struggled slightly in crosswinds, but overall, it maintained flame better than the Nexgrill 820-BC002 thanks to its deep firebox design.

When stacked against the Megamaster 820-0065C, it offers similar BTUs but less total cooking area, yet wins in long-term corrosion resistance and build integrity. It’s the go-to for hikers, boaters, and minimalists who demand reliability over bells and whistles. Compared to the Coleman RoadTrip 285, it lacks multiple burners but beats it in material quality and rust protection. If you want a single-burner grill that lasts years, not seasons, the GT1001 is worth the extra investment.

Tailgating just got a major upgrade—the Coleman RoadTrip 285 stands tall, both literally and figuratively, as the ultimate stadium-side kitchen. With three adjustable burners pumping 20,000 BTUs, a built-in thermometer, and push-button Instastart ignition, this stand-up silver grill delivers full backyard functionality in a portable chassis. The 285 sq. in. grilling area handles a full rack of ribs or a dozen burgers with ease, while the quick-fold legs and wheels make setup and transport a breeze—no lifting heavy tabletop units onto picnic tables.

Real-world testing revealed excellent heat control, with burners allowing zone cooking—sear on one side, keep warm on another—something the Royal Gourmet PD1305H can’t match despite its higher BTUs. The integrated thermometer was accurate, helping avoid overcooked chicken or underdone steaks. However, the 16.4 oz. propane cylinder limits runtime, requiring frequent swaps during long events. While wind-resistant, it still benefits from a windbreak in open lots. Cleanup was manageable, though grease management isn’t as seamless as in models with removable trays.

Next to the Coleman 4-in-1, it trades multi-functionality for superior grilling performance and larger footprint. It’s not for backpackers, but for serious tailgaters, sports fans, and event hosts, it’s unmatched. Compared to the PD1305H, it lacks a griddle but excels in ergonomics and cooking consistency. If you want a portable grill that feels like home, the RoadTrip 285 delivers pro-level control and convenience, just without the 4-in-1 flexibility.

One grill, four identities—the Coleman 4-in-1 is a chameleon of outdoor cooking, transforming from grill to stove to griddle to wok with simple insert swaps. With 7,000 BTUs and a compact 100 sq. in. cooking area, it’s not built for feasts, but for versatility in tight spaces—RV kitchens, backpacking trips, or small patios. The reversible griddle/grill insert is a standout, letting you flip from pancakes to burgers in minutes, while the wok insert opens up stir-fry possibilities most camp grills can’t touch.

In practice, the low BTU output means slower heating and limited searing power—steaks won’t get a hard char. But for gentle cooking tasks, it shines: scrambled eggs, sautéed veggies, or boiling water for pasta. The water tray for grease collection simplifies cleanup, and the compact storage design—legs and inserts fit inside the inverted wok—is genius for space-saving. However, the small cooking surface limits group meals, and wind easily disrupts the flame, requiring a shield. It’s best for solo adventurers or couples who value functionality over firepower.

Versus the RoadTrip 285, it sacrifices grilling power and space for multi-role adaptability—a fair trade for minimalist cooks. Compared to the PD1305H, it offers less total heat and space but wins in storage efficiency and role switching. For those who want one compact unit that does multiple jobs, the 4-in-1 is unmatched. It’s not the best searer, but the best at being many tools in one, making it ideal for ultralight campers and RVers with tiny kitchens.

Value meets performance in the Nexgrill 820-BC002—a smartly engineered 1-burner grill that delivers premium features at a mid-range price. With a cast aluminum frame for superior heat retention and a cast iron cooking grate that delivers restaurant-quality sear lines, this compact grill is built to maximize flavor and durability. The 10,000 BTU burner heats quickly, and the 183 sq. in. cooking space is perfect for small families or couples—handling four burgers and veggies with ease.

Field tests showed excellent heat-up speed and consistent grilling performance, even after multiple uses. The piezo ignition was 100% reliable, and the removable grease tray made post-grill cleanup simple—no scrubbing. The locking lid and sturdy legs added stability, preventing wobble during cooking, a common flaw in budget models. While it lacks wind protection, it held flame better than the GasOne GPT-17B in mild breezes. It’s not for large groups, but for backyard BBQs, patios, or weekend camping, it’s a standout.

Against the Megamaster 820-0065C, it offers less cooking space but superior heat retention and sear quality thanks to cast iron. Compared to the Royal Gourmet GT1001, it uses similar BTUs but a less durable aluminum frame—a trade-off for lower cost. It’s the ideal pick for budget-conscious buyers who still want pro-level results. For those who want great sears and easy maintenance without overspending, the Nexgrill delivers more bang for the buck than most competitors.

Big cooking, compact form—the Megamaster 820-0065C shocks with a massive 360 sq. in. cooking surface, the largest in its class, making it a feast-ready powerhouse for groups. With an 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner and porcelain steel firebox, it heats fast and maintains high temps—perfect for crowd-pleasing BBQs at tailgates or family campsites. The foldable legs and locking lid ensure portability without sacrificing stability, and the removable grease tray simplifies cleanup after heavy use.

In testing, the spacious grate handled 10+ burgers at once with room for veggies—something no other single-burner model matches. Heat distribution was mostly even, though edges ran slightly cooler. The higher BTU gave it a slight edge over the Nexgrill in searing speed, but without cast iron, it didn’t develop the same crust. Wind did impact performance, and the lack of a wind guard was noticeable in open areas. Still, for group cooks, the sheer size compensates for minor heat variances.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet GT1001, it offers nearly 80 more sq. in. of cooking space—a massive upgrade for group meals. Against the GasOne GPT-17B, it’s larger and more powerful but less compact. It’s the go-to for families, scouts, or tailgaters who need to feed many without multiple grills. While it lacks the GT1001’s stainless steel burner longevity, it wins in sheer capacity, making it the best choice when space is king.