Blackstone griddles have earned devoted fans among campers because they’re easy to use, portable, and versatile for cooking a wide range of meals outdoors. The appeal isn’t just hype—campers appreciate how a Blackstone functions as a convenient, all-in-one cooking solution in various outdoor environments.

With multiple size options, Blackstone griddles fit different camping setups, from solo adventures to group outings. Reliable performance and a sturdy build help them stand up to rugged camping conditions, making them popular for those who want dependable gear.

The trend isn’t just about gear, but the experience. Campers like having the freedom to cook everything from breakfast to steak in one place, and many find cleanup straightforward. As more people look for efficient ways to prepare food outdoors, it’s easy to see why Blackstone griddles are becoming a staple at campgrounds everywhere.

Why Everyone’s Obsessed with Blackstone Camping: You’ll Want One ASAP!

What Makes Blackstone Griddles Popular for Camping

Blackstone griddles are recognized for their ability to deliver reliable, high-quality cooking in outdoor environments. Their design, cooking surface, and features cater to the unique needs of campers seeking both performance and ease of use.

Flat-Top Griddle Advantages

Blackstone griddles use a sturdy flat-top made from cold-rolled steel, which helps maintain steady heat across the entire surface. This construction minimizes temperature fluctuations, making it possible to cook everything from pancakes to steak without worrying about hot spots.

A flat surface is easy to manage with a spatula, ideal for cooking mixed ingredients or flipping several items quickly. Unlike traditional grills, there are no grates for small foods to fall through, which simplifies preparing items like diced vegetables, bacon, or eggs.

The flat-top's size also helps streamline meal preparation for small groups or families. Cleaning is straightforward, as debris can be scraped toward a built-in grease trap. For durability in outdoor conditions, Blackstone griddles stand out due to their robust construction and corrosion resistance, making them suitable for repeated use during camping trips.

Versatile Outdoor Cooking Options

Campers value the flexibility that Blackstone griddles offer. A single griddle can cook a variety of foods back-to-back—breakfast dishes, burgers, stir fry, or even delicate fish—without needing multiple specialized pans.

Unlike typical portable grills, Blackstone models provide a large, seamless cooking surface that enables users to cook several items at once or prepare full meals efficiently. This is especially useful for family camping or group outings where time and energy are at a premium.

Temperature control on a Blackstone outdoor griddle is usually precise, letting cooks sear, sauté, or gently warm ingredients. Those who enjoy experimenting with recipes can appreciate the creative possibilities a spacious, open griddle brings.

Portability and Convenience

Portability is a top concern for campers. Blackstone offers models specifically designed for travel, with foldable legs, compact forms, and manageable weights that fit in most car trunks or RV storage compartments.

Setup and breakdown are usually tool-free and fast, which reduces campsite hassle. The griddle’s use of propane means users aren’t restricted to locations with electrical hookups or firewood, giving more freedom to cook in varied outdoor environments.

Cleaning is minimized by nonstick surfaces and accessible grease management, letting campers spend less time on chores. Many campers appreciate the combination of portability and simplicity. This emphasis on user-friendly design distinguishes Blackstone from many other outdoor cooking options.

Key Features and Benefits of Blackstone Camping Griddles

Blackstone camping griddles stand out for their robust cooking surfaces, customizable temperature controls, and practical designs that suit a range of outdoor cooking needs. The construction and maintenance features add reliability and convenience, making outdoor meal preparation more enjoyable.

Cooking Surface and Cooking Space

Blackstone camping griddles are known for their large flat cooking surfaces, typically made from cold-rolled steel. This material offers even heat distribution, reducing the risk of hot spots and helping food cook consistently. Sizes range from portable tabletop models to larger freestanding options, giving campers flexibility depending on group size and available space.

Spacious cooking areas simplify meal prep, allowing users to cook multiple foods—such as pancakes, bacon, and eggs—at the same time. The continuous surface means smaller ingredients won’t fall through, which is an issue with traditional grills. A sizable cooking space is especially handy for families or groups on camping trips.

Below is a basic comparison of the popular Blackstone camping griddle models:

Model	Cooking Surface (sq. in)	Portability
Tabletop 17″	268	High
Tabletop 22″	362	High
28″ Griddle	470	Medium

Adjustable Burners and Cooking Zones

One of the most practical features for campers is the presence of adjustable burners. Multiple burners allow users to control temperatures independently across different sections of the griddle surface. This makes it easy to sear burgers on one side while keeping vegetables warm on another.

These separate cooking zones are helpful for preparing full meals without swapping pans or timing everything perfectly. With simple controls, even less experienced cooks can achieve the right heat for each dish. Consistent with feedback from Blackstone users, the adjustable burners provide flexibility not found in most portable grills.

Less heat loss and direct flame application also contribute to gas efficiency. For campers who value quick setup and energy savings, this is a significant benefit.

Durability and Cold-Rolled Steel Construction

Durability is central to the Blackstone camping griddle’s reputation. The griddles use cold-rolled steel, which is valued for its toughness and resistance to warping. This material is less prone to bending under heat stress compared to some lightweight alternatives.

Cold-rolled steel surfaces also develop a natural nonstick seasoning with use, provided they are properly cared for. This adds to longevity, reducing replacement costs and maintenance concerns over time. As mentioned on The Grill Coach, stronger support braces and solid welds increase structural integrity, keeping the griddle flat and stable during cooking.

Campers looking for equipment that withstands repeated use in changing outdoor conditions will appreciate these construction choices.

Easy to Clean and Grease Management System

Cleaning up after a camp meal can be a hassle, but Blackstone griddles incorporate systems that make this process easier. The flat cooking surface wipes down quickly, and the cold-rolled steel is smooth enough to resist sticking when properly seasoned.

A key feature is the built-in grease management system. Grease and food debris are channeled away from the food and into a removable tray or cup. This design keeps the cooking area tidy and minimizes flare-ups common with open-flame grills. Detailed cleaning and maintenance tips are available from multiple community forums and product guides, and many users report that these griddles are easy to clean compared to similar products.

The combined effect is a low-effort cleanup, saving time and keeping the griddle ready for its next use.

Signature Camping Meals and Recipes

Outdoor cooking on a Blackstone griddle gives campers a practical way to prepare diverse meals, from classic American favorites to inventive recipes. Many campers find that the even cooking surface and spacious design make it easy to whip up both timeless and innovative dishes right at the campsite.

Smash Burgers and Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches

Smash burgers remain a staple for camping due to their straightforward preparation and satisfying taste. Campers press beef patties directly onto the hot griddle, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Toppings like cheddar, lettuce, onions, and pickles easily finish the burger.

Philly cheesesteak sandwiches are another popular choice. Thinly sliced beef cooks quickly on the griddle and is often combined with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and provolone or American cheese. The broad surface helps cook the vegetables and toast the hoagie rolls at the same time. Griddling creates evenly cooked fillings, making these sandwiches a favorite for feeding groups.

Breakfast Quesadillas and French Toast

Breakfast at camp is often about convenience and substance. Breakfast quesadillas offer both. Tortillas are filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, sausage, or vegetables and then toasted on the Blackstone until crispy. This method lends itself well to quick heating and easy sharing around the campsite.

French toast is simple to prepare on the Blackstone. Bread slices are dipped in an egg mixture, then browned until golden. Campers appreciate the ability to make multiple servings at once on the large cooking surface. Topped with syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar, French toast remains a sweet and filling start to the day.

Shrimp Scampi and Creative Griddle Recipes

Shrimp scampi is a standout seafood dish for campers seeking something different. Shrimp are sautéed on the griddle with garlic, butter, and parsley, then finished with fresh lemon juice. The wide griddle surface ensures fast, even cooking, which is ideal for delicate seafood.

Creative griddle recipes extend beyond typical meats. Dishes like cheesy bacon-burger wraps, grilled tortellini and spinach casseroles, or vegetable stir fries are possible thanks to the versatility of the Blackstone. Campers can easily adapt recipes to accommodate dietary needs or available ingredients.

A full range of creative meal ideas are available here.

Enhancing Outdoor Cooking Experiences

Blackstone griddles transform outdoor cooking by offering spacious surfaces and making meal preparation more efficient. They create opportunities for group meals, encourage social interaction, and support a variety of recipes with the help of specialty cooking tools.

Family Time and Social Cooking

Preparing meals outdoors becomes an easy gathering point for families. The griddle’s large surface lets adults and children work together, making pancakes, eggs, or burgers side by side. Simple tasks like flipping pancakes or arranging toppings give everyone a chance to participate.

Mealtime is much less isolated compared to traditional grills. People stand around the Blackstone, cooking and chatting without the barrier of a closed lid. Families find that breakfast, lunch, and dinner turn into shared activities rather than chores divided between the kitchen and the campsite.

Trying new recipes is more appealing when it’s a group effort. With quick cleanup and consistent heating, the Blackstone lets everyone focus on enjoying time together rather than managing a messy fire or slow camp stove. For many, these shared meals become highlights of camping trips and outdoor vacations, turning routine cooking into quality family time.

Tailgating and Group Events

At tailgating parties and group events, efficiency is key. The Blackstone griddle’s flat top allows users to prepare multiple dishes at once, from burgers and hot dogs to stir fry and fajitas. This large-capacity surface means fewer batches and less waiting—vital for serving hungry crowds.

Setup is fast, and with propane fuel, there’s no need for charcoal or complex fire management. The open design lets cooks stay involved in the social environment, flipping food while talking with friends or watching the game. Group hosts can present a more varied menu than a standard grill allows, accommodating different diets and preferences on the same cooking area.

Cleanup is straightforward, so the transition between breakfast burritos in the morning and brats in the afternoon is seamless. For anyone considering a versatile grill that handles the demands of tailgating or group camping meals, the Blackstone stands out.

Using Cooking Tools and Accessories

Choosing the right cooking tools increases both convenience and safety. Users benefit most from wide spatulas, scraper blades, tongs, and squeeze bottles for oil or water. These make handling large volumes of food simple and reduce the risk of burns.

Extra accessories, such as grill domes, melting covers, and heat-resistant gloves, allow for more cooking versatility and precise results. Storage bins, prep containers, and paper towels help keep ingredients organized and cleanup manageable, especially in outdoor settings. Even a small investment in food thermometers ensures properly cooked dishes.

Having the proper tools on hand lets cooks expand their meal options and try out recipes that might not work on a camp stove or charcoal grill. The right setup encourages experimentation, giving the outdoor chef a reliable and adaptable cooking experience wherever the meal takes place.

Exploring Blackstone's Versatile Product Range

Blackstone offers a specialized lineup of camping products for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its equipment is designed to provide flexibility, ease of use, and reliable performance in rugged conditions.

Flat Top Grill vs. Gas Griddle

A central choice for campers is between Blackstone's flat top grills and gas griddles. Flat top grills feature a broad, smooth surface, allowing for the preparation of everything from bacon and eggs to pancakes and stir-fry. This makes them ideal for serving large groups and cooking a variety of foods at once.

Gas griddles, like Blackstone’s 36-inch models, are engineered for consistent heat and durability. They typically use propane, making them simple to set up and maintain in outdoor settings. Unlike traditional grills, gas griddles lack open grates, which enables users to cook items such as chopped vegetables, delicate fish, and even sauces without risk of falling through.

Comparison Table: Flat Top Grill and Gas Griddle

Feature	Flat Top Grill	Gas Griddle
Cooking Surface	Smooth, large surface	Smooth, large surface
Fuel	Propane or natural gas	Primarily propane
Food Variety	Versatile (meats, eggs, stir-fry)	Very versatile (meats, veggies, etc.)
Cleaning	Wipe and scrape smooth surface	Wipe and scrape smooth surface

Both options excel in versatility, but the gas griddle is especially popular for its portability and high performance in camping environments. Blackstone’s designs are known for being sturdy and simple to use, even in adverse weather conditions.

Pizza Ovens for Camping

Blackstone’s portable pizza ovens provide campers with the ability to cook crispy, restaurant-quality pizzas outdoors. These ovens can reach high temperatures quickly and maintain even heat, enabling a classic charred crust without the need for a wood-fired setup.

Easy to transport and set up, Blackstone’s pizza ovens are made with outdoor use in mind. Some models are equipped with rotating stones and built-in thermometers, ensuring consistent results whether baking pizza, roasting vegetables, or even baking bread.

Adding a pizza oven to camp gear expands the menu far beyond basic grilling. Campers appreciate the option to create fresh pizzas in minutes, which can be a highlight during family trips or group camping. Blackstone’s commitment to durability and convenience is evident in their pizza oven construction and performance.