Let’s be real—bad coffee can ruin a good morning, and when you’re out camping, the last thing you want is a cup of weak, bitter disappointment. You don’t have to settle for instant coffee or sludge from an old percolator that tastes like last night’s campfire ashes. Great coffee is possible outdoors—you just need the right method.
So, grab your favorite mug and let’s talk about how to brew the best cup of campfire coffee—no matter where your adventure takes you.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links. At no cost to you.
Disclosure:This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links. At no cost to you.
There are plenty of ways to make coffee, but when you’re outdoors, you need something simple, rugged, and guaranteed to taste amazing. These three methods deliver bold, flavorful coffee without fancy equipment.
Best For: Hardcore campers, minimalists, and anyone who believes a little grit in their coffee builds character.
How to Make It:
🔥 Boil a pot of water over the fire.
🔥 Add coarsely ground coffee (about 2 tablespoons per 8 ounces of water).
🔥 Let it boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
🔥 Add a splash of cold water to help the grounds settle.
🔥 Pour slowly so the grounds stay at the bottom (or strain if you’re fancy).
💡 Pro Tip: Want smoother cowboy coffee? Toss in crushed eggshells with the grounds—it helps reduce acidity and bitterness.
Best For: Campers who want strong, rich coffee with minimal effort.
How to Make It:
🔥 Heat water over the fire to just below boiling (about 200°F).
🔥 Add coarse-ground coffee to your camp-friendly French press (1:15 coffee-to-water ratio).
🔥 Pour in hot water, stir, and let it steep for 4 minutes.
🔥 Slowly press the plunger down, and you're ready to pour.
💡 Pro Tip: Pre-grind your beans at home and store them in an airtight container to keep things simple.
Best For: Traditionalists who want that classic camping vibe and a strong, bold cup.
How to Make It:
🔥 Fill the bottom chamber of the percolator with water.
🔥 Add coarsely ground coffee to the basket (about 1 tablespoon per cup of water).
🔥 Place it over the fire and let it percolate (watch for steam and bubbling).
🔥 Once it’s brewed for 7-10 minutes, take it off the heat and let it settle before pouring.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t let it boil too long, or you’ll end up with bitter, burnt-tasting coffee.
☕ Bring Fresh Beans! Pre-ground coffee loses flavor fast—grind your beans before the trip and store them in an airtight container.
🔥 Watch the Heat. Too hot = bitter coffee. Aim for just under boiling for the best flavor.
🚀 Upgrade Your Coffee. Add a cinnamon stick, a splash of bourbon, or some sweetened condensed milk for a next-level cup.
🛠️ Keep It Simple. A mug, a pot, and a heat source are all you really need.
A good morning starts with great coffee, and just because you’re off the grid doesn’t mean you have to suffer through weak, stale, or bitter brews. Master one of these campfire coffee methods, and you’ll never settle for instant again.
So, whether you’re sipping coffee by the lake, deep in the woods, or just enjoying the morning air outside your tent—make it count.
☕🔥 How do you take your camp coffee? Let us know in the comments!
Disclosure:This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links. At no cost to you.
