Feeding a hungry group in the great outdoors requires the right tools. A dedicated camping griddle turns meal prep from a chore into the centerpiece of your gathering, offering a vast, versatile cooking surface perfect for everything from morning pancakes to evening stir-fries. Choosing the best model for your crew means considering size, portability, and features that make outdoor cooking efficient and enjoyable.
From compact tabletop units ideal for tailgating to expansive flat tops built for a backyard feast, the options are diverse. This roundup highlights eight excellent griddles designed to handle group meals. We’ve focused on key factors like cooking area, burner control, and included accessories to help you find the perfect match for your next adventure.
Our Top Picks for Group Camping Griddles
- Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable Propane Gas Grill Griddle
- Blackstone Omnivore Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle w/ Hard Cover, 36”
- Camp Chef FTG600 32 Inch Griddle Cover
- Cuisinart 360° XL Griddle Outdoor Cooking Center, 30”
- Coleman Fold N Go Propane Griddle
- Blackstone Tabletop Griddle 22-inch with Hood
- Pit Boss Ultimate Griddle 4-Burner Flat Top Grill
- Royal Gourmet PD1301 Portable 3-Burner Propane Griddle
Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable Propane Gas Grill Griddle
This portable 3-burner griddle is a fantastic option for groups on the move. Its 319 square inch porcelain-enameled cooking surface can handle up to 15 patties at once, making it capable of feeding a family or small camping party. The unit is designed for easy transport, fitting in a car trunk and placing on a countertop for flexible setup at the campsite, patio, or picnic area.
Convenience is a major benefit, as it comes with a protective PVC cover to shield the griddle from weather and dust when not in use. The three burners provide good heat distribution across the flattop, allowing for efficient cooking of various items simultaneously. Its balance of ample cooking space and portability makes it a reliable choice for group meals away from home.
Blackstone Omnivore Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle w/ Hard Cover, 36”
For large group cooking, the Blackstone 36-inch griddle is a top-tier choice. Its expansive cooking surface, powered by four independently controlled burners, lets you prepare entire meals at once. You can manage different heat zones for searing meats, cooking vegetables, and keeping items warm, which is ideal for feeding a crowd efficiently.
The griddle features Blackstone’s Omnivore plate technology, which is engineered for even heating and improved fuel efficiency. It includes practical features like folding side shelves for prep space, a rear grease management system, and push-button ignition. The included hard cover protects the steel cooking surface and adds versatility. This model is built for serious outdoor cooking at campgrounds or backyard gatherings.
Camp Chef FTG600 32 Inch Griddle Cover
While not a griddle itself, this durable cover is an essential accessory for protecting your investment, specifically designed for the Camp Chef FTG600 32-inch griddle. Made from diamond plate aluminum, it offers superior protection from the elements compared to standard fabric covers, helping to prevent rust and damage during storage or transport.
The cover includes user-friendly features like extra-long stainless steel brackets that allow it to hang conveniently on the back of your griddle when cooking. A sturdy grade 304 stainless steel handle makes it easy to remove and replace. For group campers who own a compatible flat top, this cover extends the life of your equipment, ensuring it’s ready for many meals to come.
Cuisinart 360° XL Griddle Outdoor Cooking Center, 30”
The Cuisinart 360° XL stands out with its unique round design and multifunctional capabilities. The 30-inch circular cooking surface is supplemented by three powerful, independently controlled burners, allowing for precise heat management. The integrated stainless steel vented lid is a key feature, transforming the griddle into a versatile outdoor oven for roasting, baking, or steaming.
This design is excellent for group meals that go beyond standard griddling. The 360-degree grease track effectively funnels drippings into a removable cup for simple cleanup. With folding prep tables on the sides, it offers a complete outdoor cooking station. Its ability to handle diverse cooking methods makes it perfect for groups that enjoy varied menus at their campsite or cookout.
Coleman Fold N Go Propane Griddle
Coleman’s Fold N Go griddle emphasizes ultimate portability and quick setup for group camping. Known for its clever folding design, this griddle collapses into a compact, easy-to-carry unit, saving significant space in your vehicle. It’s an ideal solution for campers who need a capable cooking surface but have strict storage limitations.
Despite its portable form, it provides a generous cooking area suitable for preparing meals for several people. The design typically includes integrated legs that unfold for stable use on a picnic table. As a product from Coleman, a trusted name in camping gear, it is built to be durable and reliable in outdoor conditions, making group meal preparation straightforward and efficient.
Blackstone Tabletop Griddle 22-inch with Hood
The Blackstone 22-inch Tabletop Griddle brings the brand’s renowned flat-top performance to a more portable format. Its 22-inch steel cooking surface is ample for cooking for a small to medium-sized group, perfect for campsites or tailgating where a full-sized cart isn’t practical. The included hood is a valuable addition, helping to retain heat for more consistent cooking and offering some protection from the elements.
This model often features two independently controlled burners, allowing for dual-zone cooking. Its tabletop design means you can place it on any stable surface available at your campsite. For groups that want the quality of a Blackstone griddle in a size that’s easier to transport and store, this is an excellent and popular compromise.
Pit Boss Ultimate Griddle 4-Burner Flat Top Grill
Pit Boss enters the griddle market with a robust model built for substantial group cooking. The 4-burner configuration provides plenty of power and independent control over a large cooking area, ideal for preparing multiple components of a meal simultaneously. It is designed to be a durable and high-performance option for serious outdoor chefs.
Expect features that enhance the group cooking experience, such as ample prep shelves, an efficient grease management system, and a sturdy construction. The flat top surface is typically made of thick, cold-rolled steel for excellent heat retention and even cooking. This griddle is suited for campers or outdoor enthusiasts who host large gatherings and need a reliable, high-capacity cooking station.
Royal Gourmet PD1301 Portable 3-Burner Propane Griddle
The Royal Gourmet PD1301 is another strong portable option, likely building on the success of the PD1300 with potential updates or a different size configuration. As a 3-burner portable griddle, it offers a solid balance between cooking capacity and transportability, making group meals at the campground manageable.
This type of model typically includes a sizable porcelain-enameled flattop that is easy to clean and provides consistent heating. The portable design with integrated legs allows for setup on a picnic table or tailgate. It’s a practical choice for campers who need a dependable cooking surface that can be easily moved and stored, ensuring everyone gets a hot meal without complication.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Camping Griddle for Group Meals
When you’re feeding a crowd at the campsite, a good griddle is a game-changer. But not all griddles are created equal, especially when you need to cook for a group. I’ve learned through trial and error that a few key factors make the difference between a smooth group meal and a frustrating mess. Let me walk you through what I always look for.
First, size is non-negotiable. For a group, you need serious surface area. I look for a cooking surface that’s at least 300 square inches, but for bigger crews, 400 or more is ideal. This lets me cook pancakes, bacon, and eggs all at once instead of in frustrating batches. Remember, the listed size often includes the grease management lip, so check the actual flat cooking area. Weight and portability are the trade-offs here. A large, heavy cast iron griddle is fantastic for heat retention but a pain to transport. For car camping, this is fine. If you have to hike any distance, a lighter, thinner steel model might be a better fit for your best camping griddle for group meals.
Material dictates performance. Cast iron is the classic for a reason—it holds heat incredibly well and gives a fantastic sear. It’s perfect for steaks and burgers. The downside is it’s heavy, requires seasoning, and can rust. Cold-rolled steel (like on Blackstone griddles) heats up fast and offers excellent, even heat distribution. It’s usually lighter than cast iron but still needs regular oiling to prevent rust. Non-stick surfaces are easy to clean but can scratch easily and aren’t always suitable for high heat. I prefer steel or cast iron for their durability and high-heat capability.
Heat source compatibility is crucial. What are you going to use it on? Some griddles are designed specifically for a two-burner camp stove. Others sit directly over a campfire or on a grill grate. Many modern flat-top griddles have their own integrated stand and use disposable propane cylinders. Think about your typical camping style. If you love the campfire, get a model with legs or one meant for grill tops. If you rely on a camp stove, ensure the griddle’s dimensions match your burner layout so it heats evenly.
Finally, consider the extras. A good grease management system (a trough and a catch cup) is vital for easy cleanup and safety. Removable legs for storage, a carrying case, and a lid (for melting cheese or keeping food warm) are all valuable features. Look for a surface that is easy to clean—some have a rolled edge to contain food, which is helpful. In the end, the best camping griddle for your group is the one that fits your cooking style, group size, and how you camp, making those big outdoor breakfasts and dinners a highlight of the trip.
FAQ
What size griddle do I need for 6-8 people?
For a group of 6 to 8, I recommend a griddle with a flat cooking surface of at least 350 to 400 square inches. This gives you enough room to cook a full meal—like a dozen pancakes, a pack of bacon, and a scramble of eggs—simultaneously. Cooking in batches for a group that size can take forever and leave you eating at different times. A larger surface area is the key to efficient, social group cooking.
Is a camp stove griddle or a standalone propane griddle better for groups?
It depends on your priorities. A griddle that sits on your existing camp stove is more compact and cost-effective. However, a standalone propane griddle (like those from Blackstone or Camp Chef) is often the superior choice for larger groups. They offer more cooking space, their own powerful burners for consistent heat, and built-in features like side shelves and grease management. If group meals are a regular part of your trips, the dedicated unit is worth it.
How do I clean and maintain a steel or cast iron griddle at the campsite?
Right after cooking, while the griddle is still warm, I scrape off any food bits with a metal scraper. For a steel top, I then pour a little water on the surface (it will sizzle and steam) and scrape again to deglaze. Wipe it clean with paper towels or a cloth, then immediately apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface to protect it from rust. For cast iron, use coarse salt and a little oil with a paper towel to scrub, wipe clean, and re-oil. Never use soap on cast iron.
Can I use a regular kitchen griddle for camping?
You can, but there are drawbacks. Most kitchen griddles are designed for a single home burner and are too small for group camping meals. They also often lack features like grease traps or rolled edges, making for a messy, potentially dangerous situation outdoors. Materials matter too; a thin non-stick kitchen griddle won’t hold heat well over a campfire or uneven camp stove. A tool designed for the job will always perform better and make your life easier.
What’s the best fuel type for a camping griddle?
For convenience and control, propane is my top pick for group cooking. Small 1-pound cylinders are portable, and larger tanks are cost-effective for big trips. The heat is instantly adjustable, which is critical when you’re managing different foods on one surface. Butane camp stoves work too, but performance can drop in cold weather. If you’re a purist and have the setup, a griddle over hardwood coals from a campfire provides unbeatable flavor, though it requires more skill to manage heat.