The Best Camp Chef Grills in 2026: 5 Picks

Quick picks

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

Camp Chef 20-Pound Mesquite Hardwood Pellets

Best for: Clean-burning mesquite smoke flavor

Application

Camping

Dimensions

15.7 × 9.84 × 3.94 inches

Weight

20 pounds

View on Amazon: Camp Chef 20-Pound Mesquite Hardwood Pellets Affiliate link

These Camp Chef Southwest Mesquite pellets are kiln-dried hardwood fuel for grilling and smoking. The 20-pound bag weighs 19.8 pounds and measures 15.7 inches long. They contain no oils or chemicals, ensuring a clean burn. The low moisture content helps maintain temperature efficiently. This product is designed for use in all pellet grills, smokers, and barbecues. It is made in the U.S.A.

Pros

• Kiln-dried for low moisture and efficient burning
• No oils, chemicals, or binders added
• Safe for all pellet grills and smokers
• Made in the U.S.A.

Cons

• Limited to mesquite flavor profile only
• Requires separate grill or smoker to use
• Single 20-pound bag size limits bulk storage

Good fit if

• You want a clean-burning fuel source
• You prefer mesquite flavor for your food
• You need U.S.-made grill pellets

Skip if

• You need a grill, not just fuel
• You prefer hickory or apple smoke flavor
• You want a larger bulk quantity

Verdict: Camp Chef Southwest Mesquite Pellets 20 lb provides a clean, efficient burn for your smoker. You should choose this if you want consistent mesquite smoke without additives.

2 Best budget

Camp Chef 14-Inch Single-Burner BBQ Grill Box

Best for: modular camp kitchen setups

Cooking Area

224 Sq In

Application

Camping

Form Factor

Built-In

Material

Cast Iron

Dimensions

16 × 16.5 × 8 inches

Weight

22 pounds

View on Amazon: Camp Chef 14-Inch Single-Burner BBQ Grill Box Affiliate link

This Camp Chef BBQ30L is a portable grill box designed to cover one burner on your cooking system. It features a 14 by 16 inch cooking area and weighs 22 pounds. The unit includes a pre-seasoned cast iron grate and a locking hinged lid. You can mix it with other accessories to build a custom camp kitchen. It suits camping, tailgating, or backyard use where you need a versatile, single-burner setup.

Pros

• 14 by 16 inch cooking space
• Pre-seasoned cast iron grate
• Locking hinged lid with heavy duty handle
• Internal heat diffusion plates

Cons

• Single burner capacity limits large batch cooking
• 22 pound weight reduces portability
• No side burner included

Good fit if

• You need a modular accessory for an existing burner system
• You prefer cast iron cooking surfaces
• You are camping or tailgating with a small group

Skip if

• You require a standalone grill with its own fuel source
• You need to cook for more than a few people at once
• You want a lightweight unit under 15 pounds

Verdict: Camp Chef BBQ30L Portable Single Burner Grill Box is a sturdy modular accessory for those who already have a compatible burner system. It fits campers who value cast iron durability and do not need a standalone cooking unit.

3 Also great

Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24 Portable Propane Grill

Best for: campers needing wind-protected portable grilling

Fuel Type

Propane

Cooking Area

240 sq in

Heat Output

24,000 BTUs

Burner Count

2

Form Factor

Portable

Application

Camping

View on Amazon: Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24 Portable Propane Grill Affiliate link

This portable propane grill offers 240 square inches of cooking space powered by 24,000 BTUs. It features dual heat zones for independent temperature control and a hinged lid that protects against wind. The pre-seasoned surface is ready to use immediately. Its compact dimensions and 58.4-pound weight make it suitable for camping or tailgating where space is limited.

Pros

• 24,000 BTU heat output with dual independent burners
• 240 square inches of pre-seasoned cooking area
• Flamethrower ignition system for reliable startup
• Hinged lid provides wind protection and secure transport

Cons

• 58.4-pound weight limits easy portability
• Single burner design restricts complex cooking setups
• No side shelf for food preparation

Good fit if

• You need a dedicated propane grill for camping trips
• You want independent control over two cooking zones
• You prefer a pre-seasoned surface that requires no initial seasoning

Skip if

• You require a large cooking area for big gatherings
• You need a lightweight unit for backpacking
• You prefer charcoal or pellet fuel sources

Verdict: Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24 Portable Grill delivers reliable dual-zone heat for campers who prioritize wind protection and easy ignition over heavy-duty capacity.

4 Best premium

Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36 Flat-Top with Side Burner

Best for: large outdoor cooking groups

Application

Camping

Features

Side Burner

Compatible Appliance

Griddle

Dimensions

72 × 32 × 39.5 inches

View on Amazon: Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36 Flat-Top with Side Burner Affiliate link

The Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36 is a 36-inch flat-top grill with a 2,304 square inch cooking area. It includes a Sidekick burner for extra heat and a hinged lid for wind protection. The flamethrower ignition lights quickly without matches. A bottom shelf provides storage. This unit suits you if you need a large, versatile griddle for camping or outdoor cooking.

Pros

• 2,304 square inch preseasoned non-stick surface
• Includes Sidekick burner for expanded cooking power
• Flamethrower ignition for fast lighting
• Hinged lid offers wind protection

Cons

• Large footprint requires significant space
• Heavy-duty build may be difficult to move
• No mention of temperature control sensors

Good fit if

• You need a large griddle surface for groups
• You want a built-in side burner
• You cook outdoors in windy conditions

Skip if

• You have limited storage space
• You prefer a compact portable unit
• You need precise temperature monitoring

Verdict: Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36 Flat-Top Grill is best for cooks who need a large, wind-shielded griddle with extra burner power.

5 Best outdoor

Camp Chef Gridiron 36 Flat-Top Grill

Best for: Large outdoor cooking surfaces

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping

Compatible Appliance

Griddle

Dimensions

36 × 21 × 43.1 inches

Weight

155 pounds

View on Amazon: Camp Chef Gridiron 36 Flat-Top Grill Affiliate link

The Camp Chef Gridiron 36 is a 36-inch outdoor flat-top grill designed for heavy-duty cooking. It features flamethrower ignition for reliable starts and a hidden grease bucket for easier cleanup. The unit includes foldable shelves and a magnetic accessory system. Weighing 155 pounds, this black grill offers a substantial cooking surface. It suits you if you need a dedicated outdoor griddle for camping or patio use.

Pros

• Flamethrower ignition for easy and reliable startup
• Hidden grease bucket with oversized trough
• Includes magnetic accessory system and foldable shelves
• 36-inch cooking width

Cons

• Heavy at 155 pounds
• Large footprint requires significant storage space
• No portable handle mentioned in specs

Good fit if

• You need a large 36-inch cooking surface
• You want reliable flamethrower ignition
• You have space for a heavy outdoor unit

Skip if

• You need a portable grill
• You have limited storage space
• You prefer a lighter unit under 100 pounds

Verdict: The Camp Chef Gridiron 36 Flat-Top Grill is a solid choice for cooks who prioritize a large cooking area and easy ignition. It fits you well if you have the space to store its 155-pound frame.

Specifications side by side

Camp Chef Grill Lineup Overview

Camp Chef offers distinct options for outdoor cooking. The Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36 Flat-Top with Side Burner and the Camp Chef Gridiron 36 Flat-Top Grill provide large surfaces for groups. These heavy units suit permanent outdoor setups where space is not a constraint. You need ample room for their substantial frames. For mobile needs, the Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24 Portable Propane Grill features wind protection and dual-zone heat. It fits campers who prioritize portability and reliable ignition over heavy capacity. Modular kits also exist. The Camp Chef 14-Inch Single-Burner BBQ Grill Box adds durability to existing burner systems. Fuel choices vary. The Camp Chef 20-Pound Mesquite Hardwood Pellets offer clean burning smoke for smokers. This selection covers propane grills, flat-tops, modular accessories, and pellets. Each serves a specific camping or backyard role based on your storage and fuel preferences.

Who Camp Chef Fits Best

Camp Chef’s lineup spans from small accessories to heavy-duty griddles. You can start with 20-pound mesquite pellets for flavor. The 14-inch single-burner box adds modular heat for campers. For portable propane cooking, the Gridiron Gameday 24 offers wind protection. Larger groups benefit from the 2,304-square-inch Gridiron Pro 36 or the massive 155-pound Gridiron 36. These units require significant space. The range focuses on flat-tops and modular setups. You will not find small charcoal grills or compact charcoal smokers in this selection. The brand suits those who prioritize large cooking surfaces or modular camp kitchens.

How to choose the right Camp Chef grill

1. Check your fuel preference

   Your cooking style depends on whether you want propane convenience or wood flavor. The Gridiron Gameday 24 uses propane for reliable, wind-protected ignition. This suits campers who need quick heat without managing fire. If you prefer natural smoke, the 20-Pound Mesquite Pellets provide clean-burning hardwood flavor. These pellets are ideal for smokers where consistent smoke is key. Choose propane for speed and wood for taste. Match your fuel choice to how you plan to cook most often.

2. Evaluate your space constraints

   Weight and dimensions dictate where you can place your equipment. The Gridiron 36 Flat-Top Grill weighs 155 pounds and measures 36 inches long. This large frame requires significant storage space and a permanent outdoor spot. In contrast, the 14-Inch Single-Burner Grill Box weighs 22 pounds. Its compact size fits easily into modular camp kitchens. Check the length and width specs carefully. Heavy units offer more surface area but limit your mobility options significantly.

3. Match the application to your gear

   Determine if you need a standalone unit or a modular accessory. The BBQ30L is a single-burner box designed for existing compatible burner systems. It does not include a fuel source or ignition. This makes it perfect for campers who already own a stove. If you need a complete, portable solution, look for a self-contained grill like the Gridiron Gameday 24. Ensure your current gear supports the accessory you plan to buy before purchasing.

4. Assess your cooking surface needs

   Group size determines the required square footage. The Gridiron Pro 36 offers 2304 square inches of cooking space. This large surface handles large outdoor cooking groups efficiently. The Gridiron Gameday 24 has a 16-inch grate, which suits smaller parties. Measure your typical meal output. If you cook for many people, prioritize the larger flat-top models. Smaller grills are sufficient for individual or couple cooking scenarios.

5. Consider wind protection features

   Outdoor conditions affect your cooking reliability. The Gridiron Gameday 24 includes wind protection features. This design helps maintain consistent heat in breezy camping environments. The large flat-top griddles also offer some wind shielding due to their height and structure. If you cook in open areas, prioritize units with built-in shields. This spec ensures your food cooks evenly without external interference affecting the temperature.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• camp chef bb30l BBQ grill box review
• camp chef gridiron gameday 24 portable review
• best camp chef gas grills
• best camp chef camping stoves