We love spending time outdoors, especially when we can camp near a lake. One of the best parts of camping is cooking over an open fire, but sometimes you need a little help from a stove.
In this post, we’ll share the 13 best lake camping stoves for your next trip.
1. Coleman Classic 3 Burner Propane Camping Stove
The Coleman Classic 3 Burner Propane Camping Stove is ideal for car camping as it features two powerful 12,000 BTU burners, adjustable temperature settings for precise simmer control, and a cast iron grill and griddle attachment for versatility. It also has a durable cast iron carry handle, an integrated igniter, and propane fuel. The aluminized steel cooktop is easy to clean, while the secure space allows you to store the propane regulator. Additionally, the stove includes a heavy-duty latch to keep it closed while traveling, a convenient nylon carry case for accessories, and it can fit 10” and 12” pans. It is 8.66×26.7in size and weighs 13 lbs 8 oz.
The Coleman Classic 3 Burner Propane Camping Stove is easy to use and reliable, providing a classic camp stove experience for car campers. Its two-burner design adds versatility and adjustable burners for good simmer control. It’s easy to operate and can be fueled with propane canisters at gas stations and grocery stores. The stove is also durable, with its aluminum components able to withstand the outdoors. Moreover, it is easy to store with its suitcase-style mechanism and is an affordable choice, often purchased for less than $70.
- Up to 28,000 total BTUs of cooking power
- 3 adjustable burners for precise temperature control
- Even-Temp design radiates heat evenly across burners
- PerfectFlow pressure regulator for consistent performance, even in extreme conditions
- Instastart push-button ignition for matchless lighting
2. Camp Chef Mountain Series Everest 2X Camping Stove
The Camp Chef Mountain Series Everest 2X camping stove stands out from other camping stoves due to its powerful dual 20,000 BTU burners, quick cooking capabilities, and matchless ignition. With an impressive windscreen to protect the flames, this stove can withstand strong winds, making it great for outdoor spaces. Its stainless steel cooking grate is sturdy enough to hold the weight of all your pots, pans, and cast iron cookware. The drip tray makes post-cooking cleanup a breeze, and the stove collapses for easy transport and storage. With a fast boil time and great simmering ability, the Camp Chef Mountain Series Everest 2X is an excellent choice for outdoor chefs looking for a reliable and efficient stove for their camp kitchens.
- Features two 20,000 BTU cast aluminum burners for serious cooking power
- Folding lid opens into a 3-sided wind screen to protect your flame from windy conditions
- Matchless ignition for quickly getting burners lit
- Includes regulator adapter for 1lb propane cylinders
3. Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove
The JetBoil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove stands out for various reasons, including its lightning-fast boil time, push-button ignition, and ability to store the gas and stove inside the pot. It is also exceptionally lightweight, weighing only 13 oz and measuring 4 x 7 inches. Additionally, the stove features Jetboil’s patented FluxRing technology, which helps to distribute heat evenly and allows for optimal efficiency. Furthermore, the JetBoil Flash also comes with a color-change heat indicator that shows when the water is boiling and an optional Coffee Press, which turns the pot into a cafetiere. Finally, the stove also has fold-out legs that attach to the base of the gas canister, increasing the stove’s stability.
- Optimized for efficiency, the Jetboil Flash camping and backpacking stove, in Fractile, boils water in a lightning-quick 100 seconds, making it the fastest Jetboil ever.
- Jetboil’s 1-liter FluxRing cooking cup with insulating cozy makes boiling water—and keeping it warm—a breeze, making the Jetboil Flash personal cooking system the ultimate camping stove for preparing coffee, soup, or dehydrated meals on the trail.
- Start heating instantly with the convenient, reliable pushbutton igniter, and verify that the water’s ready with the thermochromatic color-change heat indicator.
4. Coleman Portable Butane Stove
The Coleman Portable Butane Stove is a classic camping stove that is renowned for its reliability and its ability to stand the test of time. It is a two-burner system powered by propane and uses a match or lighter to ignite the flame. It is an easy-to-use system, and it can fit two medium-sized pots on the stove at once, so you can make two separate meals. It also has wind guards to protect your campfire, and it is portable and requires no expertise for use. The only downside is that the simmer control is not always reliable.
Overall, this is an excellent choice for campers who are looking to graduate from cooking over a campfire, as it is easy to use, reliable, and efficient. It provides two burners, adjustable temperature control, and can be powered by both Coleman liquid fuel and unleaded gasoline. It also has a 5-year warranty and comes with two wind panels for a contained cooking area, making it an excellent choice for car camping.
- PORTABLE: Lightweight and compact; included carry case makes it easy to bring to the campsite, picnic, roadside, and more
- PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Single adjustable burner for precise temperature control
- EASY TO CLEAN: Porcelain-coated grate is removeable for quick cleanup; rust-proof aluminum burner
5. Primus FireStick
The Primus FireStick is an excellent choice for lake camping due to its lightweight, packable design, making it easy to transport. It also has a pressure regulator for maximum fuel efficiency and a large twist valve to control output, and it is available in steel or titanium versions. Its pot stands provide wind protection and can support pots up to 36mm in width. The FireStick comes with a wool pouch that doubles as a mini pot gripper and a piezo ignition stick. This stove has a height of 103mm, width of 36mm, 2500W output, 3.5 min boil time for 1 liter, and is suitable for 1-2 people.
- STREAMLINED, ULTRA-PACKABLE STOVES: Primus Firestick Stoves are designed to occupy as little space as possible. A uniquely designed backpacking stove with a streamlined, ultra-packable silhouette that slides into any pocket for fast and easy access
- STAINLESS STEEL OR TITANIUM: Firestick stoves are available in robust Stainless Steel or ultralight Titanium (Ti) versions.
- FEATURES: Pot supports and recessed burner offer flame protection in windy conditions. Fine control valve provides precise flame and heat control, and works perfectly with PrimeTech pots with heat exchangers.
6. Campingaz Twister Plus PZ
The Campingaz Twister Plus PZ is a compact stove with a built-in piezo lighter that’s designed to make life easier. It features an ‘Easy Clic’ connection to the gas bottle and an in-built ignition system, so you don’t have to fumble around for matches or worry about the wind blowing out a match. The hard, plastic case provides more protection than many carry solutions for stoves, and it’s compatible with Campingaz Easy Clic valve canisters. It also has a heatshield for added protection when adjusting the gas and heat and a competitive price.
- Heat screen to protect the control knob from heat
- Protection case included
- Piezo ignition
- Easy Clic Plus cartridge connection
- Power: 2,900W
7. MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Camping Stove
The MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Camping Stove is an iconic camping stove designed for ultralight backpacking. This compact stove weighs just 2.6 oz, folds down to about 2 x 3 inches, and can boil a liter of water in 3.5 minutes. It features a flame control handle for precise simmering, a Piezo ignition system for reliable starting, and a built-in pressure regulator for consistent cooking performance. It has excellent fuel efficiency and is suitable for all types of camping, making it a popular choice among wild campers. It comes with a red carrying case backed by MSR’s reliable and trusted quality.
- Ultralight (2.6 oz) and compact (2x2x3 in) folding canister stove for minimalist adventures, backpacking, hiking, trekking, camping, and global travel
- Boils one liter of water in just 3.5 minutes and flame easily adjusts from a simmer to a rolling boil for gourmet cooking in the outdoors
- Fueled by high-performance isobutane-propane fuel canister (not included); self-sealing threaded canister fuel is available in most countries
8. GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Pro 2 Burner Stove
The GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Pro 2 Burner Stove is an excellent option for those who are limited on space in their vehicle or gear storage. At just 1.4 inches tall when closed, it is significantly thinner than most two-burner alternatives and still offers good output with two 11,000-BTU burners. It also features a three-sided windscreen, dual push-button igniters, and a coated, non-stick drip pan for quick and easy cleanup. The deployable legs are also helpful for raising the stove to a convenient height when cooking on a camping table. However, the stove is less robust and portable than the competition, and there is no spot to store the regulator. Additionally, the windscreens are short and not all that protective, and there is no carry handle for transport.
- A full-sized camp cooking station in a space-efficient design; Reduces down to an ultra-thin 1.4 inches for easy packing and transport; Great option for smaller vehicles
- Powerful dual 11,000 BTU regulated propane burners for quick boiling and gentle simmering; Piezo ignition system fires up the stove with the turn of a knob and the click of a button
- Windscreens have cutaways that allow pot/pan handles to swivel for a hassle-free cooking experience; Professional-grade, stainless steel construction with fold-out legs for additional stability
9. BioLite Campstove 2
The BioLite CampStove 2+ is a wood-burning stove designed to be a reliable and efficient cook stove while also providing the capability to charge small devices. It utilizes a thermoelectric generator powered by heat from the burning wood. Thanks to built-in fans, users have control over the intensity of the heat. The CampStove 2+ also features a recently updated 3,200mAh battery that can turn the energy from its wood fire into usable electricity, allowing users to charge their smartphones when the sun is down. It also has patented smokeless tech, which ensures a better and longer-lasting experience. In addition, it packs to the size of a 32-ounce water bottle when not in use, making it easy to transport. Overall, the BioLite CampStove 2+ is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need the convenience of charging small devices while away from home.
- Turn fire into electricity and charge your smartphone, tablet or other devices; Charge while you cook or store power in the 3,200 mAh battery for later use; Battery stores 1 full smartphone charge
- Find your stove fuel around camp or on the trail and stop carrying the extra weight of fuel canisters; Burns pellets and twigs, sticks, dried lichen and pine cones
- Campstove 2+ only weighs 2.06 pounds and packs down to the size of a 32 ounce wide-mouth water bottle, making it ideal for backpacking; Quickly boils 1 liter of water in 4.5 minutes
10. Primus Tupike 2-Burner Portable Camping Stove
The Primus Tupike 2-Burner Portable Camping Stove is an ideal solution for lake campers thanks to its stainless steel, oak, and brass construction that provides exceptional durability and transforms this utilitarian piece into a work of art. It is equipped with two 10,000 BTU burners powered by gas, allowing users to boil water quickly for pasta and to simmer the sauce simultaneously. With its easy-to-clean non-stick griddle plate and removable pot supports, meal preparation and cleanup are a breeze. Additionally, its piezo ignition system eliminates the need for matches or lighters, and its adjustable side panels provide wind protection. To top it off, the Tupike’s foldable steel legs lift the stove for comfortable cooking ergonomics, and its wooden handle locks the stove cover in place for added safety.
- DUAL BURNER STOVE: This classic 2-burner stove feeds the whole family with ease. Each burner lights up easily with the built in Piezo igniter, no lighter required. Fine tune the flames on each burner with separate control knobs.
- INTEGRATED WINDSCREENS: The lid and locking side windscreens ensure steady heat for cooking, even in windy conditions. Hose and connector for propane cylinder included.
- STAINLESS STEEL & OAK BODY: The sleek stainless steel body, die-cast aluminum sides, oak laths and brass details are designed for long-lasting durability, and age beautifully.
11. Snow Peak GigaPower Stove 2.0
The Snow Peak GigaPower Stove 2.0 stands out among other camping stoves due to its durable construction, stainless steel build, auto-lighter, 11,897 BTU output, and compatibility with other products such as the Double Bamboo Insert, which adds a 19.6-inch table for prepping or serving. Additionally, the wind guards of the stove ensure efficient cooking, and the GigaPower canister provides easy and efficient fuel use. The stove is also aesthetically pleasing with a sleek design and is ultra-compact when stored.
12. Eureka ignite Portable 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove
The Eureka InnoVentor II Portable 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove is an excellent choice for lake camping. It has several features that make it a great choice, including 10,000 BTUs per burner for powerful heat, a 23-inch cooking area to accommodate larger pots and pans, 10” of cooking space to cook multiple items simultaneously, an automatic ignition to keep your hands safe from large bursts of flame, a retractable windshield to protect the flame from being blown out, and durable materials and sturdy latches for reliable use and storage. Additionally, its ability to hold a consistent simmer is excellent for more versatile cooking and allows you to stray from just bringing pasta and ramen.
- Compact and powerful, the Eureka! Ignite two-burner camping stove, in green, is perfect for small groups and allows you to cook with more control.
- A pair of 10, 000 BTU burners include two-turn simmer controls that deliver precise flame adjustments, from light simmer to full output for up to 90 minutes burn time per canister at maximum flame.
- A push-button ignitor allows for fast, easy starts while the stove fits two 10-inch pans to create your campsite meals. A stainless-steel drip tray offers rust-free performance and easy cleanup.
13. MSR WindBurner Personal Windproof Camping Stove
The MSR WindBurner Personal Windproof Camping Stove is an excellent choice for lake camping because it offers superior performance in windy conditions. Unlike traditional camping stoves, the WindBurner has a built-in heat exchanger and pressure regulator that ensure consistent heat and maximum efficiency even in windy conditions. It also features a single burner with a powerful 7,000 BTU output, so it can boil water quickly while still providing excellent simmer control. The WindBurner Stove Combo System comes with a 2.5-liter pot and an 8-inch skillet, making it ideal for groups. In addition, the stove and accessories are lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport and set up.
- Integrated System: Compact, all-in-one stove and cookware solution features a secure-locking pot/personal eat-and-drink mug with cozy
- Maximum Efficiency: Radiant burner and heat exchanger deliver faster boil times and more fuel efficiency than conventional stoves that use convective heat only
- Windproof Performance: 100% primary air combustion, enclosed design & internal pressure regulator work together to make stove virtually impervious to outside conditions
How to choose the best camping stove for your needs?
Choosing the right camping stove for your needs can be tricky, with so many different types and features to consider. To make sure you get the right stove for your fuel type, here are the steps you need to take:
- Research the main types of camping stoves available and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Most camping stoves are designed to use either propane, wood, ethanol, or solid fuel. Consider the details of each fuel type, such as fuel efficiency and availability, to decide which one is best for your needs.
- Look at the size and weight of the camping stove you’re considering. If you’re backpacking, you’ll want something small and lightweight. For car camping, you can be more flexible with size and weight.
- Consider the features of the camping stove you’re looking at. Look for features that make it easier to use and more efficient, such as wind deflectors, heat exchangers, and adjustable burners.
- Make sure the stove you’re considering is compatible with the fuel type you’ve chosen. Gas camping stoves should work with propane or other universal fuel types. If you’re going for a wood-burning stove, make sure you have easy access to twigs and sticks.
- Compare the prices of the camping stoves you’re considering. To get the best value for money, look for stoves with features that will make your cooking experience easier and more efficient.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to find a camping stove that matches your fuel type and meets your needs.
FAQ
What type of fuel do camping stoves use?
Camping stoves typically use propane as the fuel source, as it performs well in a range of temperatures and is easily available at most outdoors or big box retail stores. Propane comes in two varieties: the 16-ounce canisters, which are more suitable for shorter trips, and the 5-gallon tanks (also known as 20-pound tanks), which are best for extended stays. However, other fuel types are available as well, including butane, liquid fuels such as white gas, unleaded gasoline, jet fuel, kerosene, and diesel, and alternative fuels such as wood. Isobutane is lighter than propane and can come in smaller containers, making it a popular choice for backpacking stoves. Wood-burning stoves are also becoming increasingly popular, as they require no fuel canisters and instead burn sticks and twigs gathered at camp, but they offer less flame and heat control compared to other models.
What safety precautions should be taken when using a camping stove?
Several safety precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience when using a camping stove. First, inspect all stove parts and ensure they are in good working condition before leaving for your trip. Also, test the stove outside to make sure it is working correctly. Additionally, know the weight of the stove and make sure it is easy to transport, especially if the campsite is far away. It is also essential to know the safe temperatures for storing and cooking food and the length of time that cooked food can be left out before it must be thrown away. When dealing with flammable liquids like starter fluid, be extremely careful and never leave the stove or campfire unattended. When ready to extinguish a campfire, douse it with water until all embers have gone dark. Also, periodically disassemble the stove for deep cleaning and store it in a carrying case when not used.
What makes a backpacking stove different from a camping stove?
The primary difference between backpacking and car camping stoves is their size, weight, and design. Backpacking stoves are lightweight, collapsible one-burner stoves that rely on liquid fuel or white gas and are designed to be as small and light as possible. On the other hand, camping stoves are heavier-duty double burner stoves that generally run on propane, making them better suited for car camping trips. Backpacking stoves are less potent than regular camping stoves; however, they are easier to transport and can be set up nearly anywhere. Camping stoves typically have built-in covers and windscreens to protect the burners from the elements and often accept larger fuel canisters for group cookouts. On the other hand, backpacking stoves weigh less and break down into separate components, making them more suitable for backpacking trips.
What are the best ignition options for camping stoves?
When choosing a camping stove, the best ignition option depends on the model and the price range. Manual lighting is a popular and often cheaper option, but it’s tricky in windy conditions and can be dangerous if you use a lighter. It’s also important to carry a lighter as a backup. The more expensive option is a Piezo system, which uses an electrical charge and can be found in models like the GasONE stove.
Does a camping stove have adjustable simmer control?
Yes, camping stoves have adjustable simmer control. This is a crucial aspect of a camping stove’s functionality. It enables the stove to maintain an even temperature at low temperatures, which is important for foods that require a little finesse, such as soups, etc. Additionally, a stove’s proficiency at low heat means better fuel efficiency, so it is important to consider a stove’s simmering ability when shopping for one. Many stoves have matchless—also known as “piezoelectric”—ignition, which makes firing up the stove a breeze and good simmer control, such as the Everest 2x, the Stansport 3-Burner, and the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp.
What accessories are available for camping stoves?
When looking for the best camping stove, various accessories are available to help make your outdoor cooking experience more convenient and enjoyable. Heat diffusers allow for simmering on stoves that are not easily low-heat adjustable, and windscreens help if you’re cooking in windy conditions. Jetboil CrunchIt enables puncturing and discharging used gas canisters, and silicone pot holders are compact, flexible, and effective pot holders. For an all-in-one camping cooking set, the MSR Deluxe Kitchen Set provides everything you need for an organized outdoor cooking experience. Different camping stoves, such as screw-in or integrated upright canister stoves, all-in-one/personal cooking systems, liquid fuel and multi-fuel stoves, and wood stoves, are available.
What is the best way to transport a camping stove?
The best way to transport a camping stove is to consider the weight, shape, and type of stove. For backpacking trips, an ultralight stove is best, as these typically weigh less than a pound or two and consist of only essential parts such as a burner and fuel canister. For car camping trips, a tabletop or freestanding stove is a good choice, as these are heavier and more durable. Freestanding camp stoves feature collapsible legs that can be set up on any surface, and tabletop stoves often have built-in covers and windscreens to protect the burners from the elements.
When packing a camping stove, you should also consider what other items you will be carrying and opt for a stove that is easy to store and transport. For example, backpacking camping stoves are single-burner set-ups that often include a pan or pot, a stand for fuel, and a gripping burner. These stoves are designed to fit into your pack and should have folding legs and a compact profile. You should also check for compatibility issues between the stove, fuel, and other items you carry.