The perfect camping trip hinges on good food that fuels your outdoor fun. Nothing beats reaching into your pack during a hike or sitting by the campfire and pulling out a tasty snack that satisfies your hunger.

Great camping snacks need to be portable, durable, and simple to eat without much preparation. They should give you energy for activities while being enjoyable enough to feel like a treat.

From classic treats made over flames to ready-to-eat options that require zero cooking, we’ve gathered 65 camping snack ideas that will make your outdoor meals something to look forward to.

These snacks work for solo trips, family outings, and group adventures alike.

Best Camping Snacks for Your Next Outdoor Trip

Going camping means bringing tasty food that’s easy to make and carry. The right snacks can make your outdoor trip much better, giving you energy for hiking and fun around the camp.

Here are some simple, yummy snack ideas that work great for camping trips. These snacks are perfect for both quick bites on walks and relaxing moments by the fire.

1. S’mores

These iconic camping treats combine graham crackers, chocolate bars, and toasted marshmallows. They’re sticky, sweet, and totally worth the messy fingers. S’mores have been a camping tradition since at least the 1920s.

Quick Recipe: Toast a marshmallow over your campfire until golden brown. Place it on half a graham cracker topped with chocolate squares. Press another graham cracker on top and wait a moment for the hot marshmallow to melt the chocolate. Squish together and enjoy!

2. Campfire Popcorn

This fun snack turns plain kernels into a tasty treat without needing special equipment. The popping sounds inside the foil packets bring excitement to the campfire. It’s much fresher than pre-popped varieties.

Quick Recipe: Mix 1/4 cup popcorn kernels with 1 tablespoon oil in a heavy-duty foil pouch. Seal tightly but leave room for expansion. Attach to a long stick and hold over hot coals, shaking constantly. When popping slows, open it carefully (watch for steam!), add salt, and munch away.

3. Trail Mix

This energy-packed combination offers quick fuel for hiking. It’s customizable to everyone’s taste preferences and dietary needs. The mix of proteins, carbs, and fats provides sustained energy for outdoor activities.

Quick Recipe: Combine 1 cup nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews), 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apple pieces), 1/4 cup chocolate chips, and 1/2 cup small pretzels or cereal. Mix in a large ziplock bag and shake well. Pack in small portions for grab-and-go snacking.

4. Beef Jerky

This preserved meat snack offers protein without refrigeration. It lasts for weeks in proper packaging and takes up minimal space. Jerky has been a travel food for centuries across many cultures.

Quick Recipe: While often store-bought, you can make jerky at home. Slice lean beef thinly, marinate overnight in soy sauce, worcestershire, black pepper, and brown sugar. Dry in a food dehydrator or oven at lowest setting (around 170°F) for 4-6 hours until dry but still pliable.

5. Granola Bars

These compact energy sources combine oats, honey, and various mix-ins. They’re portable, relatively mess-free, and provide quick nutrition. Homemade versions can be much healthier than commercial options.

Quick Recipe: Mix 2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 cup honey, 1/3 cup peanut butter, and 1 cup chopped nuts/dried fruits. Press firmly into a parchment-lined pan. Refrigerate until firm, then cut into bars. Wrap individually in wax paper for easy packing.

6. Roasted Marshmallows

These puffy sugar treats transform completely over fire. The outside gets crispy and caramelized, while the inside becomes gooey. They’re one of the simplest yet most satisfying camping desserts.

Quick Recipe: Skewer a marshmallow on a long stick. Hold it over hot coals (not flames, unless you like them charred!), rotating it slowly for even browning. Once golden all around, let it cool briefly before eating—the inside is molten hot!

7. Banana Boats

This clever fruit-based dessert cooks in its own natural packaging. The heat makes the banana soft and sweet while melting the fillings. It’s like a sundae you can make in the woods.

Quick Recipe: Keep the peel on, but slice a banana lengthwise about halfway through. Stuff the cut with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. Wrap completely in foil and place near hot coals for 5-8 minutes. Unwrap, let cool slightly, and eat with a spoon.

8. Apple Chips

These dehydrated fruit slices provide natural sweetness with a satisfying crunch. They’re lighter than fresh apples and don’t bruise in your pack. One apple makes many chips, saving space.

Quick Recipe: Thinly slice apples (a mandoline works best). Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired. Lay flat on dehydrator trays or baking sheets. Dry at 135°F in a dehydrator or the lowest oven setting until crisp (2-6 hours depending on thickness). Cool completely before storing in airtight containers.

9. Campfire Nachos

This shareable snack transforms basic tortilla chips into a crowd-pleasing meal. The cast-iron cooking method ensures even heating and prevents burning. It’s customizable based on available toppings.

Quick Recipe: In a cast-iron skillet, layer tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and canned beans. Cover with foil and place over medium campfire heat for 5-10 minutes until cheese melts. Top with pre-cut veggies, pre-made guacamole packets, and salsa.

10. Cheese and Crackers

This classic pairing requires zero preparation yet satisfies hunger quickly. Hard cheeses can last several days without refrigeration. Various textures and flavors keep this simple snack interesting.

Quick Recipe: Pack hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pre-wrapped options like Mini Babybel. Bring sturdy crackers that won’t crush easily in your pack. When hunger strikes, simply slice cheese and arrange on crackers. Add a drizzle of honey for something special.

11. Peanut Butter and Banana Wraps

This no-cook meal provides substantial protein and carbs for energy. The combination stays fresh for hours without refrigeration. It’s filling enough for breakfast or lunch.

Quick Recipe: Spread peanut butter generously on a flour tortilla. Place a peeled banana at one edge. Roll up tightly, tucking in sides if desired. Slice into pinwheels or eat whole. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or honey before rolling.

12. Puppy Chow

This sweet, crunchy treat gets its name from its resemblance to dog food. The powdered sugar coating creates a unique texture combination. It’s highly addictive and great for sharing.

Quick Recipe: Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips with 1/4 cup peanut butter. Pour over 4 cups of Chex cereal and stir gently. Transfer to a ziplock bag, add 1 cup powdered sugar, seal, and shake until coated. Store in sealed containers to maintain crispness.

13. Campfire Queso

This warm, gooey dip brings comfort food to the outdoors. The melted cheese satisfies cravings after a day of activity. It creates a fun, communal eating experience around the fire.

Quick Recipe: In a fire-safe pot, combine 8oz velveeta-type cheese (cubed) with a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies. Place over medium-hot coals, stirring occasionally until melted and bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.

14. Roasted Chickpeas

These crunchy legumes provide plant-based protein in a shelf-stable form. They satisfy the craving for something salty and crunchy. Different seasonings create variety in your snack selection.

Quick Recipe: Drain and dry canned chickpeas thoroughly. Toss with 1 tablespoon oil and seasonings (try garlic powder, salt, and paprika). Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20-30 minutes until crunchy. Cool completely before packing in containers.

15. Rice Krispies Treats

These chewy, portable squares hold up well in backpacks. They provide quick energy from sugar and some substance from the cereal. They’re universally loved by kids and adults alike.

Quick Recipe: Melt 3 tablespoons butter, add 4 cups mini marshmallows, and stir until smooth. Mix in 6 cups of rice cereal. Press into a greased pan and let cool. Cut into squares and wrap individually in wax paper to prevent sticking.

16. Monster Cookies

These hearty cookies pack multiple treats into one durable package. They typically contain oats for substance and various mix-ins for flavor. They’re more resistant to crumbling than regular cookies.

Quick Recipe: Mix 1 cup of peanut butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 egg, 1 cup of oats, 1/2 cup of M&Ms, and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Drop large spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Cool completely before packing.

17. Cinnamon Roll Power Bites

These no-bake energy balls taste like dessert but offer better nutrition. The oats provide lasting energy while the cinnamon gives warming flavor. They’re small but satisfying.

Quick Recipe: Mix 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup nut butter, 1/3 cup honey, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/4 cup chopped nuts. Roll into bite-sized balls and chill until firm. Store in a container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

18. Air Fryer Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies bake quickly and stay soft longer than oven-baked varieties. The peanut butter adds protein and helps them maintain freshness. They’re perfect for mid-hike energy boosts.

Quick Recipe: Mix 1 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup chocolate chips. Roll into balls and flatten slightly. Cook in the air fryer at 320°F for 6-8 minutes. Let cool completely before storing them in containers with parchment between layers.

19. Cool Ranch Snack Mix

This savory mixture provides a welcome change from sweet camping snacks. The ranch seasoning adds flavor without needing refrigerated dips. It’s easy to eat while walking or sitting.

Quick Recipe: Mix 3 cups assorted cereals, 1 cup pretzels, and 1 cup nuts. Toss with 3 tablespoons melted butter and 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning powder. Bake at 250°F for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Cool completely before storing in ziplock bags.

20. Peanut Butter Protein Balls

These compact energy bombs provide sustained fuel for outdoor activities. The protein powder adds nutritional value beyond simple carbs. They satisfy hunger between meals.

Quick Recipe: Mix 1 cup oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/4 cup protein powder. Add mini chocolate chips if desired. Roll into balls and refrigerate until firm. Pack it in a container that won’t get crushed in your bag.

21. Frito Pie

This walking taco variation uses the chip bag as both a container and a bowl. It’s a fun way to enjoy a warm meal with minimal cleanup. The combination is surprisingly filling.

Quick Recipe: Open a small bag of corn chips from the top. Add a scoop of hot canned chili, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings. Eat directly from the bag with a fork or spoon. Crush empty bag when finished and pack out with trash.

22. Baked Plantain Chips

These tropical chips offer a different flavor profile than potato chips. They’re sturdier for dipping and less greasy. One plantain makes many chips for sharing.

Quick Recipe: Peel green plantains and slice them thinly on a diagonal. Toss with oil and salt. Arrange in a single layer on baking sheets and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cool completely before storing in paper bags to maintain crispness.

23. Skillet Beer Cheese

This rich, savory dip pairs perfectly with pretzels and crusty bread. The beer adds depth of flavor without strong alcohol taste. It creates a grown-up campfire experience.

Quick Recipe: In a cast iron skillet over medium campfire heat, melt 2 cups shredded cheddar with 1/4 cup beer, stirring constantly. Add a splash of worcestershire sauce and a dash of garlic powder. Serve warm with pretzel rods or bread chunks for dipping.

24. Campfire Caprese Brie

This fancy-feeling appetizer brings gourmet flavors to the campsite. The warm cheese becomes wonderfully creamy and takes on the herb flavors. It’s special enough for celebration camping trips.

Quick Recipe: Place a small wheel of brie on heavy-duty foil. Top with sliced cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. Wrap securely and place on hot campfire coals for 8-10 minutes until soft. Unwrap it carefully and serve it with crackers.

25. Ramen Snack Mix

This crunchy mix repurposes inexpensive ramen noodles in a creative way. The seasoning packet adds flavor without additional ingredients. It’s lightweight but satisfying.

Quick Recipe: Break up 2 packages of ramen noodles (save seasoning). Mix with 1 cup of nuts and 1 cup of small pretzels. Toss with 3 tablespoons of oil and ramen seasoning packets. Bake at 300°F for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cool completely before storing in ziplock bags.

26. Campfire Donuts

These quick treats create the joy of fresh donuts in the wilderness. The canned biscuits save time and equipment. The transformation feels magical around the campfire.

Quick Recipe: Heat oil in a deep, fire-safe pot. Open the canned biscuits and poke a hole in the center of each. Drop carefully into hot oil, cooking until golden on both sides (about 1 minute per side). Drain on paper towels, then roll in cinnamon sugar while still warm.

27. Campfire Cinnamon Rolls

This shortcut brings the comfort of fresh-baked goods to your campsite. The smell of baking cinnamon rolls improves any morning outdoors. They require minimal effort for a special treat.

Quick Recipe: Place store-bought cinnamon roll dough in a greased cast-iron skillet. Cover with foil and place over medium-low campfire heat or coals for 15-20 minutes. Check occasionally to prevent burning. Apply the included icing once they’re fully cooked.

28. Hot Dogs

This camping classic requires minimal preparation yet satisfies hunger quickly. The act of cooking them becomes part of the camping entertainment. They can be dressed up with various toppings.

Quick Recipe: Skewer hot dogs on long, sturdy sticks. Hold over campfire flames, rotating frequently until heated through and showing grill marks (about 5-7 minutes). Serve in buns with your favorite condiments from squeeze bottles for easy application.

29. Campfire Baked Apples

These self-contained desserts showcase fruit at its best. The fire caramelizes the natural sugars while the fillings create a sauce. The presentation feels special despite the simple ingredients.

Quick Recipe: Core apples, leaving bottoms intact. Mix butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stuff into the apple cavities. Wrap each apple completely in heavy-duty foil. Nestle in hot coals for 20-30 minutes until soft when pierced with a stick. Unwrap them carefully and eat them with a spoon.

30. Ants on a Log

This playful snack combines crunchy, creamy, and chewy textures. It provides protein and fresh vegetables in a kid-friendly package. The assembled snacks stay fresh for hours without refrigeration.

Quick Recipe: Wash and cut celery into 3-inch pieces. Fill the grooves with peanut butter. Arrange raisins in a line along the peanut butter “log.” For variations, try sunflower seeds or dried cranberries as the “ants” or substitute cream cheese for the peanut butter.

31. Gummy Worms

These chewy, sweet treats come in bright colors that appeal to kids. They hold up well in warm weather without melting. The whimsical name makes them extra fun for children.

Quick Recipe: Simply pack store-bought gummy worms in a sealed container. For a fun activity, have kids “fish” for them by hiding them in cups of chocolate pudding and using pretzel sticks as fishing poles.

32. Yogurt-Covered Pretzels

These sweet-and-salty snacks combine crunchy pretzels with a creamy coating. They satisfy multiple cravings at once. The yogurt coating is less melty than chocolate in warm weather.

Quick Recipe: Purchase prepared yogurt-covered pretzels or make them by dipping pretzels in melted white chocolate with a bit of yogurt powder mixed in. Allow to set completely before packing in containers with parchment between layers.

33. Chocolate-Covered Almonds

These protein-rich treats offer nutrition with dessert appeal. The nuts provide healthy fats and protein while the chocolate satisfies sweet cravings. They’re small but satisfying.

Quick Recipe: Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave. Stir in almonds until completely coated. Spread on parchment paper and refrigerate until set. Pack in a sturdy container to prevent crushing.

34. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter

This classic pairing combines fresh fruit with a protein-rich spread. The apple provides hydration and fiber, while the peanut butter adds staying power. It’s a healthy option among camping treats.

Quick Recipe: Pre-slice apples and toss with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. Pack the peanut butter in a small container. When ready to eat, spread peanut butter on apple slices. For fancy versions, add granola or mini chocolate chips on top.

35. Fruit Leathers

These chewy, sweet strips are made from pureed and dried fruits. They provide natural sugar for quick energy. They’re lightweight and take up minimal space.

Quick Recipe: Purchase natural fruit leathers or make by pureeing fruit, spreading thinly on parchment, and drying in a dehydrator or low oven (140°F) for 4-6 hours until no longer sticky. Cut into strips and roll in parchment for storage.

36. Animal Crackers

These mild, sweet cookies come in fun shapes that entertain children. They’re sturdy enough to survive in a backpack without crumbling. The small size allows for portion control.

Quick Recipe: Pack store-bought animal crackers in a sturdy container. For added fun, bring a small container of chocolate hazelnut spread or peanut butter for dipping.

37. Jelly Beans

These colorful candies offer quick sugar boosts during hikes. Different flavors provide variety in a single package. They’re virtually indestructible in all weather conditions.

Quick Recipe: Mix various jelly bean flavors in small ziplock bags for trail snacks. For a fun campsite game, play jelly bean taste tests where people guess flavors while blindfolded.

38. Dried Fruit

These concentrated fruit pieces provide natural sugars and some vitamins. They’re much lighter than fresh fruit and don’t bruise. Various types offer different nutrients and flavors.

Quick Recipe: Purchase assorted dried fruits or make your own by slicing fruits thinly and drying in a dehydrator or low oven (135°F) until leathery but still pliable. Mix different kinds in small containers for grab-and-go trail snacks.

39. Mini Pancakes

These bite-sized breakfast foods can be eaten cold as snacks. They’re more substantial than cookies but still portable. They can be plain or filled with fruit or chocolate.

Quick Recipe: Make silver dollar pancakes at home before your trip. Cool completely, then layer between parchment paper in containers. At camp, eat them cold or warm briefly in a pan. Bring small maple syrup packets for dipping.

40. String Cheese

These portion-controlled cheese sticks provide protein and calcium. The individual packaging keeps them clean and easy to distribute. The peeling process adds fun to eating.

Quick Recipe: Pack individually wrapped string cheese. For best results, keep in a cooler with ice, though many varieties can last a day without refrigeration. Peel it into strings rather than biting it for maximum enjoyment.

Other Fun Snacking Ideas for Your Next Trip

41. Crackers

42. Pita Chips with Tzatziki

43. Spitz Seeds

44. Veggie Chips

45. Nuts

46. Sunflower Seeds

47. Brownies

48. Mini Bagels with Cream Cheese

49. Goldfish Crackers

50. No-Bake Cheesecake Cups

51. S’mores Bars

52. Campfire Bruschetta

53. Campfire Cones

54. S’mores Graham Krispie Treats

55. Chips and Dip

56. Pretzels

57. Caramel Popcorn

58. Homemade Granola

59. Energy Balls

60. Fruit Cups

61. Muffins

62. Jello Cups

63. Banana Chips

64. Protein Bars

65. Pancakes

That’s a Wrap

Smart snacking makes camping more fun and keeps your energy high for all your outdoor plans. The best camping snacks balance taste, nutrition, and practicality.

Pack a mix of sweet and savory options so you’ll have something for every craving. Consider the weather, storage options, and how long you’ll be out when choosing what to bring. Many of these snacks can be prepared ahead at home, saving you time at the campsite.

Others can become fun campfire cooking projects that create lasting memories. With these 65 ideas, you’ll never run out of tasty options for your next camping trip.

Pack your favorites and hit the trails with confidence that good food awaits whenever hunger strikes.

Don’t miss out—return for more vacation planning tips and off-the-beaten-path guides.