Mastering how to make coffee camping is the secret to a perfect morning in the wilderness.
Hi, I’m Anthony.
For me, a camping trip doesn’t truly start until I’m holding a hot cup of coffee, watching the sunrise. But for years, I settled for terrible instant packets because I thought brewing real coffee outdoors was too hard.
I was wrong. With the right technique, camp coffee can taste even better than your home brew.
Here are the four best ways to get your caffeine fix in the wild.
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Are you wondering how to make coffee camping that actually tastes good without packing your entire kitchen? It is all about the method.
You don’t need electricity to make a gourmet cup. Whether you want a quick caffeine hit or a slow, ritualistic brew, there is a method for you.
We break down the pros and cons of the most popular outdoor brewing styles.
Quick Answer: The Best Way to Make Coffee While Camping
If you’re wondering how to make coffee camping without overthinking it, the best method depends on how much effort, gear, and quality you want.
– French Press — best for rich, full-bodied coffee with minimal technique
– Pour Over — best for clean, smooth flavor if you enjoy the brewing process
– AeroPress — best for compact packing and espresso-style coffee
– Cowboy Coffee — best for minimal gear and classic campfire simplicity
For most campers, a French press or AeroPress offers the best balance of flavor, ease, and portability. If you’re backpacking or keeping things ultra-simple, cowboy coffee gets the job done with almost no equipment.
From Anthony:
I’ve tried just about every way to make coffee while camping — from ultralight setups to full camp kitchens. Over time, I learned that the “best” method isn’t about perfection, but about finding a routine that fits your camping style. This guide focuses on simple, reliable ways to make great coffee outdoors without overcomplicating your mornings.
1. The French Press (Rich & Bold)
This is the favorite method for car campers. It’s easy, makes multiple cups, and produces a rich, full-bodied flavor.
The Gear: A rugged stainless steel press (like the Stanley Adventure).
The Method: Boil water on your Best Camping Stove. Add coarse grounds. Pour water. Wait 4 minutes. Plunge.
Pros: No paper filters needed. Great for groups.
Need a Press? Check out our review of the Best Camping Coffee Makers to find durable metal options.
2. The Pour Over (Clean & Smooth)
If you prefer a lighter, cleaner taste (like a coffee shop), the Pour Over is perfect.
The Gear: A plastic or collapsible dripper and paper filters.
The Method: Place the dripper on your Best Insulated Camping Mug. Put in a filter and grounds. Slowly pour hot water in circles.
Pros: Extremely lightweight. Easy cleanup (just toss the filter).
3. The AeroPress (Espresso Style)
This is for the coffee nerds. It uses air pressure to extract maximum flavor quickly.
The Gear: An AeroPress device.
The Method: Mix water and grounds. Press the plunger down directly into your cup.
Pros: Makes the smoothest coffee possible. Indestructible plastic body.
4. Cowboy Coffee (The "No Gear" Method)
Forgot your gear? You can still make coffee. This is the oldest method in the book.
The Gear: Just a pot and water.
The Method: Boil water. Remove from heat. Dump grounds directly into the water. Stir. Let it sit for 5 minutes so grounds sink to the bottom. Pour carefully.
Pros: Zero special equipment needed.
Cons: You might get some grounds in your teeth (“Chewy” coffee).
☕ Tips on How to Make Coffee Camping Taste Better
1. Grind Matters
If you bring whole beans, you need a manual grinder. Freshly ground beans make a huge difference.
French Press: Coarse grind (like sea salt).
Pour Over: Medium grind (like sand).
2. Water Temperature
Don’t use boiling water (212°F) directly on the beans; it burns them. Let the water sit for 30 seconds after boiling before pouring. Ideally, you want 200°F.
3. Keep It Hot
Camping mornings are cold. Pour your brew directly into a vacuum-insulated mug. A standard ceramic cup will lose heat in minutes.
Stay Hot: See our list of the Best Insulated Camping Mugs with Handles to keep your drink warm for hours.
❓ FAQ: Brewing Outdoors
What do I do with the used coffee grounds?
Pack them out! Coffee grounds are not native to the forest and can attract animals. Follow Leave No Trace principles and put them in your trash bag.
Can I use regular ground coffee?
Yes, but for the best flavor, match the grind to your method. Coarse for French Press, fine for Espresso.
How much coffee should I use?
A good rule of thumb when learning how to make coffee camping is 2 tablespoons of grounds for every 6 ounces of water.
Final Verdict
Learning how to make coffee camping turns a morning chore into a highlight of the trip.
If you are solo, grab an AeroPress or Pour Over.
If you are with a group, a large French Press is the way to go.
Life is too short for instant coffee. Brew it right!