53 Tasty Camping Lunch Ideas (Quick and Easy to Make!)

In this roundup, we’re sharing our favorite camping lunch ideas. From quick grab-and-go sandwiches to easy make-ahead meals, we have some fresh new lunch ideas for you to try out for your next camping trip!

Is it just us, or does lunch sometimes just sneak up on you? You’re hanging out at the campground and then all of a sudden, that mid-day hunger hits. While it’s tempting to graze on a never-ending buffet of camping snacks, it’s important to plan a solid lunch while you’re camping so that you don’t hit a wall in the middle of a fun day.

These camping lunch ideas are quick to prepare and pack, so you can spend less time cooking and more time having fun in the great outdoors. Whether you’re camping with family, friends, or going solo, these easy camping lunch ideas will help keep you satisfied and full of energy all day long.

Tacos

Tacos are one of the easiest camping meals! We love that there are so many different ways to make them, depending on what everyone in your group is in the mood for. Here are a few ideas:

• Chipotle Grilled Chicken Tacos
• Blackened Shrimp Tacos
• 5-Ingredient Ground “Meat” Vegan Tacos
• Cilantro & Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos
• Campfire Grilled Fish Tacos
• Grilled Halloumi Tacos
• Sweet Potato Tacos w/ Black Beans and Poblanos

“Lunchables”

If you’re heading out on a hike or to the lake to hang out for the day, pack these adult “Lunchables” snack boxes! We’ve made two different kinds–a take on the classic meat, cheese & crackers, and mini-pizzas. Here’s what we include in each one:

Meat, Cheese & Crackers

• Fancy crackers
• Sliced cheese
• Smoked turkey slices
• Deli ham slices
• Assorted nuts
• Dried apricots
• Seedless grapes

Mini Pizzas

• Naan rounds (you can also use thin sandwich rounds or English muffins)
• Tomato Sauce
• Shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
• Spicy pepperoni/salami

Panzanella

Panzanella is a filling salad made from crusty bread (perfect if your favorite part of a salad is croutons!). We love this summer-fresh Peach and Tomato Panzanella, and for shoulder season trips, this Fall Panzanella with apples and a maple-mustard vinegarette.

Turkey and Swiss Wrap

Turkey and Swiss tortilla wraps are a quick and tasty lunch that can easily be taken on the go! Start by laying out a tortilla and spreading a thin layer of mustard and mayo. Layer on slices of turkey, Swiss cheese, lettuce, and tomato, keeping them evenly distributed. Roll up the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, and then cut it in half.

Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a simple camping lunch that is a great option for kids. Heat a skillet or griddle over your camp stove on medium-low heat. Lay a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack) on one half, then add fillings like cooked chicken, beans, or sautéed veggies. Fold the tortilla in half over the fillings, and cook until the bottom is golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side. Once the cheese is melted and both sides are crispy, remove the quesadilla from the heat and let it cool slightly. Cut it into wedges and enjoy your cheesy, delicious quesadilla with a side of salsa or sour cream!

Caesar Salad

Use grilled chicken to make a lunch-sized Caesar salad! Bring along some romaine lettuce, a bottle of Caesar dressing, and croutons. Chop up the grilled chicken and toss everything together for an easy and delicious salad.

Charcuterie Board

Assemble a charcuterie board for a fancy and satisfying lunch spread! Using a cutting board or a large plate, arrange a selection of meat like salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni on the board. Add a variety of cheeses–consider slicing or cubing them for easier snacking. Hard and semi-firm cheese like cheddar, Gouda, Manchego, and Pepper Jack will pack best. Include things like crackers, olives, pickles, nuts, and sliced fruits to add color and variety.

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

This vegan alternative to a pulled pork sandwich is a great idea for lunch. While actual pulled pork takes hours of slow-roasting, this version can be ready in 20 minutes. Get our BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich recipe here!

Greek Salad

Greek salad is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a healthy lunch! Start by chopping up your veggies: cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper. Combine the veggies with a handful of pitted Kalamata olives and some crumbled feta cheese in a bowl. Use a store-bought Greek dressing or add olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and dried oregano to a mason jar, seal, and shake well. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and give it a good toss. This is a perfect light lunch, or great with grilled chicken or steak for heartier appetites.

So grab your cooler, camp stove, and a few ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some quick and tasty meals on your next camping trip. These ideas are sure to become your go-to lunch options for all your future camping trips!

Grilled Bánh Mì

Prep all the ingredients ahead of time, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make Grilled Bánh Mì Sandwiches at camp! This recipe uses a sweet and salty marinade for the pork and includes pickled veggies for that zesty crunch. Just grill the pork at camp (or cook it on a cast iron griddle on the stove) and assemble on sandwich rolls.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a camping classic! Butter* one side of each bread slice and place a meltable cheese (like cheddar or American) in between, buttered sides facing out. Heat a cast iron skillet or griddle over your campfire or camp stove on low heat. Carefully place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread turns golden brown, then flip and cook the other side. Once the cheese is melted and both sides are crispy, your grilled cheese is ready to enjoy!

*No butter? You can spread mayo on the outside and it works just the same. 

Grilled Caprese Sandwiches

Grilled Caprese Sandwiches are a great way to use fresh summer produce on your next trip. We will spread mayo and pesto onto slices of baguette bread, then layer on thick-cut slices of tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. You can cook it on a cast iron grill pan, or wrap it in foil and grill it over the campfire.

Pinwheel sandwiches

Making pinwheel sandwiches is a breeze! Just grab a tortilla or wrap, spread your favorite fillings like cheese, deli meat, and veggies, then roll it up tight and slice it into bite-sized spirals. Voilà–fun and tasty pinwheels ready to enjoy!

Chickpea Pesto Sandwiches

Skip the meat with this easy sandwich idea! Drain a can of chickpeas and place them in a bowl. Smash the chickpeas with the back of a fork and then add some mayo, salt, and pepper. Spread prepared pesto onto slices of bread and add the chickpea mixture along with slices of tomato. 

Chicken Salad Wraps

Making chicken salad wraps is super easy! First, shred or dice cooked chicken and mix it with mayo, celery, and some chopped onion. Add a touch of salt and pepper to taste, and if you like, toss in extras like grapes or nuts. Then, just spread your chicken salad onto tortillas or wraps, and layer on lettuce or tomato if you want. Roll them up and there you have it–a delicious chicken salad wrap!

BLT Sandwich

Making BLTs while camping is very simple but can feel like such a special treat! Cook bacon slices over your campfire or camp stove until crispy, then set them aside on a paper towel (do this at breakfast to save time at lunch!). If you want, toast your bread lightly over the fire or stove using a grill grate, and spread some mayo on each slice. Next, stack on bacon, lettuce, and tomato, and finally, sandwich it all together. Add in some avocado to make it a BL(A)T. 

Caesar Wrap

Whipping up a Caesar wrap while camping is simple and delicious! This recipe is the perfect way to use up leftover grilled chicken. Mix together chopped romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, and cooked chicken in a bowl. Lay out a tortilla, spoon the Caesar salad mix onto it, and wrap it up tightly, tucking in the sides. We like to serve this with a little extra Caesar dressing on the side for dipping.

Apple and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Making grilled cheese with apple slices adds a fun twist! Butter one side of each bread slice and layer cheddar cheese and thin apple slices in between, with buttered sides facing out. Heat a skillet or griddle over your campfire or camp stove on medium-low heat. Gently place the sandwich in the pan, cooking until the bread is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side. When the cheese is melted and both sides are crispy, your sweet and savory sandwich is ready to savor!

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a healthy whole grain loaded with protein–making it a great base for a healthy and filling salad! Cook quinoa at home (here’s a recipe if you’re unfamiliar) and mix it with chopped veggies such as tomatoes, lightly sauteed zucchini, thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, fresh parsley, or chopped kalamata olives, and toss with a lemony vinaigrette. This salad is great cold and even better with some crumbled feta or freshly grated parmesan cheese!

Spicy Tuna Sandwiches

We love this spicy take on tuna salad sandwiches! Drain a can of tuna and place the tuna in a bowl with a quarter cup of mayo and Sriracha to taste. Build your sandwiches with the spicy tuna mixture and some thinly sliced cucumber. Add avocado slices and fresh cilantro if you have it!

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Black Bean and Corn Salad is a great plant-based lunch idea. Drain a can of black beans and mix it with fresh grilled corn or thawed frozen corn, diced red bell pepper, quartered cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Make a quick lime vinaigrette using olive oil, lime juice, and salt, and toss everything together. This is also a great side for other easy camping meals like steak, tacos, or grilled fish.

Caprese Salad

Bring sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic vinaigrette to make a simple and delicious salad. If you’d like, slices of prosciutto or salami are the perfect way to add some protein!

Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are a classic car camping meal that is fun for kids and adults. Stick with the standard ketchup, mustard, and relish combo, or try one of these creative flavor combos:

• Buffalo Style: Wing sauce mixed with mayo + blue cheese crumbles or bleu cheese dressing + sliced green onions
• Nacho Dogs: Jalapenos + pickled red onions + cheddar cheese + salsa + jalapeno chips + cilantro
• Chili Dog: Chili + cheddar cheese + diced white onions + sliced green onions
• Reuben Dog: Sauerkraut + Swiss cheese + Thousand Island Dressing
• Elote Dog: Grilled corn + mayo + cotija cheese + cilantro + lime + chile
• Hawaiian Dog: Grilled pineapple + teriyaki sauce mixed with mayo + grilled red onions + Hawaiian roll

Meatball Subs

This is a camping recipe that SEEMS more complicated than it actually is! Buy a bag of frozen pre-cooked meatballs and pack them in your cooler. At camp, heat them up in a saucepan with your favorite jar of marinara sauce. Line the inside of a hoagie roll with provolone cheese and then ladle in the hot meatballs and some sauce. Optional toppings include olives, sliced onions, or fresh basil. 

Mac and Cheese

From a box, or cooked from scratch in a Dutch oven, Mac & Cheese is a great camping lunch for kids and adults alike! Add veggies to make it a little more nutritious, or add ground beef and spices to create a super filling Chili Mac (get our Chili Mac recipe here).

Tuna Salad

Making tuna salad while camping is easy and oh-so-tasty! First, open a can or pouch of tuna, drain it, and put it into a bowl. Scoop in some mayo or, for a healthy twist, Greek yogurt, and mix it all up. Toss in diced celery and onion for a nice crunch, and season with salt and pepper. Feeling adventurous? Add fun extras like chopped pickles or relish, a squeeze of lemon, or a dash of hot sauce. Mix it up and enjoy it as a sandwich on bread or in pita pockets, on top of crackers, or on a bed of lettuce.

Turkey and Avocado Wraps

Turkey and avocado wraps are a healthy and easy meal option! Start by laying out a tortilla and spreading a thin layer of mayo and/or mustard. Layer on slices of turkey, then add a few slices of avocado (or pre-made guacamole). Add lettuce, tomato, and sliced cheese, and sprinkle on some salt and pepper. Roll up the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, and cut it in half.

Sloppy Joes

Were you on Team Sloppy Joe’s at summer camp? This is a classic sandwich that is easy to make at the campsite or ahead of time at home. Or, swap out the ground beef for lentils to make a vegetarian/vegan version!

Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a perfect camping lunch–it can be prepared ahead of time and served cold, so there’s not much to do when hunger strikes! Cook and dice chicken at home and then mix it with mayo, grapes, and sliced almonds. Store in a sealed container in your cooler. Serve it at camp in a sandwich, on top of crackers, or stuffed in half an avocado.

Mezze Platter

A Mezze Platter is a great light lunch option. Serve chopped veggies, pita chips or flatbread, and olives with hummus. If you add feta cheese it’s even more filling!

Veggie Burgers

Veggie burgers are a healthy vegetarian lunch option! Start by preparing your favorite veggie burger patties ahead of time (we love these Black Bean Veggie Burgers) or bring store-bought ones for convenience. Heat a skillet, griddle, or grill grate over your campfire or camp stove on medium heat. Cook the veggie patties for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. Toast your burger buns lightly over the fire or stove, then assemble your veggie burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite condiments.

Make Ahead Pasta Salad

Since you can assemble this pasta salad at home before your trip, this is a super quick and zero-fuss lunch recipe. Boil & drain pasta and let it cool before tossing it in Italian dressing. Add chopped bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh mozzarella balls. You can also add some cooked, chopped chicken, a can of tuna, or chopped salami for extra protein. For a bit of a kick, add sliced pepperoncini peppers.

Ramen Noodle Salad

To make a refreshing noodle salad, cook and cool a package of ramen noodles (skip the flavor packet). Chop veggies like carrots cucumbers, and cabbage to add to the noodles, and dress it with a sesame dressing (make your own using toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a touch of soy sauce). Top it off with a handful of chopped fresh cilantro!

Grilled Veggies

Bring a variety of veggies like peppers, red onion, and zucchini, along with olive oil and seasoning. To make this super easy, grill the veggies over your campfire the night before, and store them in sealed containers in your cooler. Then, everything is ready to go when lunchtime rolls around! Grilled veggies are great on their own or with hummus, used as a wrap or sandwich filling, chopped up and added to pasta, or served as a side dish with grilled meat.

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches or Wraps

Use leftovers to make an easy BBQ Chicken Sandwich or wrap! Chop or shred some cooked chicken and toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce. Serve on buns with coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn on the cob.

Chili

Chili is one of those classic camping lunch recipes that can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like. Need something fast? Bring along a can of your favorite chili and simply heat it up! Or, make your own from scratch by sautéeing diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened. Add your choice of ground meat or meat substitute to brown, and then mix in chili powder, cumin, and paprika for that classic chili flavor. Toss in a can of diced tomatoes and drained cans of beans (like kidney and black beans), and stir it all together, simmering for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Grab a spoon and dig into your delicious campfire chili, maybe with a side of cornbread or a sprinkle of cheese on top!

Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry

This is a simple and cheap lunch idea. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook a package of ramen noodles (toss the flavor packet). Meanwhile, heat some oil in a skillet and saute a chopped onion over medium-high heat along with some veggies and minced garlic. Add stir-fry sauce to warm it through, then toss in the drained ramen noodles.

Loaded Baked Potatoes

Bring pre-baked potatoes to warm over the campfire, and top with your favorite extras like cheese, bacon bits, and sour cream. This is one of the best camping lunches for families and groups because everyone can customize their own so it’s juuust right.

Foil Packet Nachos

Nachos are one of our favorite things to eat while camping! Lay out a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil and add handfuls of tortilla chips. Top with cooked meat or canned beans (drain them first), shredded cheese, and salsa for a fun and filling lunch. Check our step-by-step tutorial for making grilled nachos here.

No-cook Camping Lunch Ideas

If you need lunch FAST, here are some simple camping meal ideas that don’t require any prep or cooking!

• Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
• Cold cuts and cheese with crackers
• Trail mix with nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Sliced apple and nut butter sandwiches
• Bagels with cream cheese and sliced tomatoes
• Crossoints with sliced ham and cheese
• Hummus and veggies or pita chips
• English muffin “pizzas” with sauce, cheese, and pepperoni
• Canned tuna mixed with mayo on crackers
• Peanut butter, banana, and honey sandwiches
• Avocado halves stuffed with tuna salad
• Apple slices with peanut butter
• Veggies and dip