Fall is here, and it is my favorite time of year for car camping! I love camping when the air is cool, the leaves are changing color, and the campgrounds are more peaceful than in the busy summer season. In my view, one of the major perks of car camping versus backpacking is the much wider range of food options! Cooking with dutch ovens on a campfire lends itself to mouth watering meals!

Old-fashioned dutch ovens are way too heavy for backpacking, but a perfect way to cook on an open fire when car camping. They are made of heavy cast iron, generally have 3 legs, a lipped lid, and a bale handle. One manufacturer that makes a range of camping specific dutch ovens is Lodge.

What to look for when shopping for a Dutch Oven:

• Weight. The heavier it is, the better. Heavier pans cook food more evenly, and retain heat for longer periods of time.
• Size. If you camp with a few people, you’ll need one that will handle a meal for the whole group!
• Handle. For cooking on an open fire, you’ll need one with a handle so you can move it!
• Legs or no legs? For camping purposes, a dutch oven with legs is more stable, and you’ll be able to get coals right underneath it.
• Lipped lid. Want pancakes? You can turn the lid upside down and use it as a griddle or frying pan.

What is your favorite dutch oven recipe?

Have fun camping this fall!