Coffee and camping go together like campfires and s’mores. No matter who you are, a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a curious beginner, a cup of coffee elevates the experience. It provides warmth if the morning is chilly. You’ll have that burst of energy you need before a hike, or it is a comforting ritual as you plan your day.
The basics: Simple and Traditional Methods for Coffee When Camping
“Even bad coffee is better than no coffee at all.”
– David Lynch
Sometimes, the most satisfying outdoor experiences come from keeping it simple. These two methods are good examples when it comes to brewing your coffee when camping.
Instant Coffee
It’s hard to get any more convenient than instant coffee. To some, pre-brewed coffee that has been dehydrated into granules or powder is sacrilege. Don’t offer a Frenchman instant coffee. But to others it is their go to caffeine hit.
Simply stir a spoonful or single-serve packet into a mug of hot water – instant coffee!
Pros and Cons:
Pro: Unbeatable ease – no mess, no equipment, and lightning-fast preparation.
Pro: Super lightweight for backpacking or when space is tight. Most brands have single-serve packets.
Con: The flavor leaves something to be desired, especially for coffee enthusiasts. I can’t drink instant black coffee, maybe David Lynch can. I’d have to add milk and sugar to help with the taste.(making it less healthy)
Cowboy Coffee
“Coffee should be black as hell, strong as death and as sweet as love”
– Turkish proverb
This iconic American method is steeped in campfire tradition as much as it is in ground coffee.
Coarse ground coffee is added directly to a pot of water. Boil the coffee on the stove until it is bubbling nicely. Usually about 60 seconds. Remove from the heat and tap the bottom of the pot with a stick. This will help most of the coffee grounds settle towards the bottom of the pot. Then pour carefully into your cup. Enjoy!
Pros and Cons:
Pro: Requires only a pot and a source of heat, a demonstration of minimalist brewing at its finest.
Pro: Offers a strong, bold flavor profile. You will be evoking the spirit of the outdoors.
Con: Expect a touch of grit as grounds will inevitably find their way into your cup. You might not like this raw coffee experience if all your life you have been drinking instant coffee.
Tip: For a smoother Cowboy Coffee experience, let the ground settle for a longer time. Or come up with a DIY strainer. You could filter the coffee through a bandana. Or pack a fine-mesh strainer.
How to make cowboy coffee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5bNeSjs5D4
Intermediate Techniques: Stepping up the Game
“The best coffee requires no particular description; it speaks for itself.”
– Daniel J. Rice
Ready to take your camp coffee experience beyond the basics? These methods offer a satisfying boost, both in flavor and ritual.
French press
A beloved method for its ability to produce a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee. Portable French presses are perfect for camping, making them a convenient option for the outdoors.
Coarsely ground coffee is steeped in hot water within the French press. A plunger with a built-in filter is then pressed down, separating the grounds and leaving behind your delicious brew.
You’ll need a portable French press (consider materials like shatter-resistant plastic or stainless steel). I’ve broken a few glass ones in my time. If you bring whole beans, you’ll need a coffee grinder of course.
Pros and Cons:
Pro: Produces a flavorful, full-bodied brew.
Pro: Many portable, camp-friendly designs available.
Con: Requires slightly more cleanup than instant or cowboy methods.
Con: Can be breakable with glass models.
Aeropress
This unique device has been highly prized since it came on the coffee scene in 2005. I had one for a long time and can’t think why I threw it away!? It is versatile and portable and its compact size makes it a great camping companion.
The Aeropress uses a combination of immersion brewing (like the French press) and air pressure to rapidly extract the coffee. This results in a smooth and flavorful cup with less acidity.
You’ll need an Aeropress kit (includes brewing chamber, plunger, filters, and a travel case). And a coffee grinder if you are bringing whole beans.
Pros and Cons:
Pro: Compact and lightweight for easy transport.
Pro: Produces a smooth, nuanced cup of coffee.
Pro: Offers flexibility in brewing styles.
Con: Requires paper filters.
Con: Slightly more involved process than cowboy or instant coffee.
Pro Tip: While both the French Press and Aeropress shine with medium-roast coffees, it’s okay to experiment! Try different coffee beans until you come up with your favorite campsite beverage.
Advanced Methods: Indulgent and Gourmet Options
“Espresso is a miracle of chemistry in a cup.”
– Andrea Illy
For campers who don’t want to compromise on their coffee experience, these techniques will deliver a serious upgrade.
Portable Espresso Makers
Espresso lovers, rejoice! Innovations in portable espresso makers keep on coming. They let you enjoy rich, concentrated shots even in the depths of the forest.
These devices come in many different styles. Some rely on manual hand-pumping to generate pressure while others use batteries. Regardless, they replicate the essential brewing process on a smaller scale.
You’ll need a portable espresso maker (brands like Wacaco, Staresso, and Flair are popular options) And, of course, bring along your favorite finely ground espresso coffee.
Pros and Cons:
Pro: The ability to make true espresso on the go.
Pro: Satisfies the craving for specialty coffee drinks.
Con: Can be more expensive than other camp brewing methods.
Con: Often requires some practice to perfect your technique.
Pour-Over Coffee
This method is prized by some for bringing precision and ritual to your campsite. (It’s my favorite) While relatively simple, it allows for careful control over flavor extraction.
Hot water is slowly and evenly poured over the ground coffee of your choice and into a coffee brew cone. The brewed coffee drips effortlessly into your mug.
You’ll need a coffee brew cone, paper filters, and good quality ground coffee. And your preferred choice for boiling water.
Pros and Cons:
Pro: Produces clean, nuanced flavors, highlighting the unique characteristics of the coffee.
Pro: Meditative, hands-on brewing process.
Con: Requires more gear and attention to detail than simpler methods.
Luxury Additions: Elevate Your Camp Coffee Ritual
Think gourmet coffee is only for a fancy kitchen? Think again! With a few simple upgrades, you can transform your campsite into your own wilderness café.
Fresh Ground Goodness
The secret to exceptional coffee? Freshly ground beans. You might think it’s just an extra chore, but it’s really worth it. You’ll help bring out the aroma and complex flavors, making it a step up from pre-ground options. Invest in a compact, portable coffee grinder. A manual grinder is even more authentic. You’ll never look back once you start.
Seek Out the Best Beans
Treat yourself to gourmet coffee blends while camping! There may be small-batch roasters in your area. Or, if you are traveling, explore local offerings on the way to the campsite. Experiment until you find one you fall in love with.
Flavorful Touches
A sprinkle of cinnamon is always nice. Or you may like a dusting of cocoa powder. Some people swear by a splash of flavored syrup. Pack small containers of your favorite additions.
Pro Tip: If you enjoy milk in your coffee, consider shelf-stable options like individual cartons of almond or oat milk, or even powdered milk, for easy transport.
These little luxuries will make sipping your coffee as enjoyable as the outdoor adventure itself!
Practical Tips: Beyond the Brew
Excellent coffee isn’t just about the technique – these practical considerations will ensure you have a top-notch experience from beginning to end.
Water Matters
The quality of your water will directly impact the taste of your coffee. You may opt for water brought from home, if possible choose filtered or spring water for the best flavor. When utilizing campsite water sources, think about purification methods such as boiling, treatment tablets, or a portable water filter.
Keeping the Warmth
Nothing beats a hot cup of coffee on a cold morning – or any time of the day! Invest in a quality insulated travel mug to keep your coffee hot for hours. For larger quantities, a thermal carafe ensures a warm refill is always possible.
Leave No Trace
Enjoying coffee in nature comes with a responsibility to protect it. Always follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out used coffee grounds and filters. Grounds can be scattered discreetly away from the campsite, added to a campfire (if permitted), or stored in a sealed container for disposal later.
Bonus Tip: This one is for the super organized – pre-measure your coffee grounds at home and store them in small containers or resealable bags. This saves time and reduces potential waste at your campsite.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Inner Barista on Your Next Camping Trip!
You’ve explored a variety of methods for brewing delicious coffee while camping, suitable for different styles and preferences. From the simplicity of cowboy coffee to the nuanced control of the AeroPress, there’s an option for every camper to savor a satisfying morning brew amidst nature.
For the minimalist: Cowboy coffee offers a no-fuss approach, perfect for those who prioritize enjoying the outdoors over elaborate setups.
For the traditionalist: Percolators and French presses deliver a classic cup of coffee, ideal for campers who appreciate a familiar ritual.
For the adventurous: Pour-over methods like the Hario V60 or Kalita Wave allow for precise brewing and experimentation, appealing to coffee connoisseurs.
For the speed demons: Instant coffee packets provide a quick and convenient solution for those who can’t wait for their morning caffeine fix.
For the gear enthusiasts: The AeroPress bridges the gap between convenience and control, offering a compact and versatile brewing experience.
Remember, the best camping coffee method is the one that suits your style and needs!
So, why not experiment and discover your perfect cup on your next adventure?
Share your favorite camping coffee experience or method in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you brew your morning cup in the great outdoors.