How to Make Campfire Popcorn and Other Fun Snacks for Your Camping Trip

When I first went camping, one of the things that excited me the most was the prospect of cooking over the campfire. The fun and camaraderie of making delicious snacks with friends and family outdoors makes the experience even more memorable. Campfire snacks are more than just food—they’re a way to bond, create memories, and enjoy the great outdoors together. Whether you're sitting around the fire after a long hike or relaxing in your campsite, campfire snacks like popcorn, s'mores, and roasted marshmallows always bring joy.

What makes these snacks so enjoyable is the process—watching the popcorn pop over an open flame or roasting marshmallows to the perfect golden brown. It’s simple, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Plus, there’s something about eating outdoors that just makes everything taste better. If you’re planning a camping trip, these easy-to-make campfire snacks are a must-have, and I’ll show you how to make them step-by-step!

Making campfire popcorn is one of the easiest and most enjoyable activities on any camping trip. It’s a classic snack that brings a touch of nostalgia to your camping experience. Here’s how you can make delicious, crispy popcorn over a campfire:

What You’ll Need:

• A campfire-safe popcorn popper (or a simple heavy-duty aluminum foil packet)
• Popcorn kernels
• Butter (optional)
• Salt or seasoning of your choice (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Place the popcorn kernels into the popcorn popper or make a foil packet by folding the kernels into a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil (make sure it's securely closed so kernels don’t fall out).
2. Hold the popcorn popper or foil packet over the campfire, just above the flame. Make sure to keep it moving gently so that the kernels don’t burn.
3. After a few minutes, you’ll hear the familiar popping sound—this means your popcorn is almost ready!
4. Once the popping slows down, carefully remove the popper or foil packet from the fire (use tongs or an oven mitt for safety).
5. Open the foil packet or pop the lid on the popcorn maker and enjoy! Add butter, salt, or any seasoning you like for extra flavor.

Making campfire popcorn is not only easy but a fun activity that everyone can join in on. My family and I love experimenting with different seasonings, from sweet cinnamon sugar to savory cheese powder, making each batch uniquely our own!

While campfire popcorn is a classic, there are plenty of other easy and fun snacks that are perfect for your camping trip. These snacks are quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are easy to enjoy outdoors. Here are a few of my favorites:

S’mores

You can’t go camping without s’mores! The combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers over the fire is an iconic camping treat. It’s so easy to make—just roast marshmallows over the fire and sandwich them between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate. Every camping trip needs at least one s’mores session!

Roasted Marshmallows

While s’mores are a favorite, roasted marshmallows alone are a treat worth enjoying. I love to roast them until they're golden brown and then enjoy them as is or squish them between two cookies for a fun twist.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

If you're looking for something a little more filling, try making grilled cheese sandwiches on a campfire. All you need are a few slices of bread, cheese, and a skillet or aluminum foil to grill them to perfection. The warmth of the campfire makes these sandwiches extra comforting.

Trail Mix

For a healthier option, trail mix is a great snack for long hikes or relaxing around the campfire. Mix together nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate or candy for a quick, no-cook treat. It’s easy to pack and provides plenty of energy for your outdoor adventures.

When it comes to campfire snacks, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some tips that I’ve picked up from my own camping experiences to make snack time even better:

• Pre-pack ingredients: To save time and avoid the hassle, I like to pre-pack ingredients in resealable bags. This makes it easy to grab what I need without having to search for everything while at the campsite.
• Choose easy-to-transport items: Bring snacks that are lightweight and easy to store in your camping gear, such as trail mix, pre-made popcorn, or packaged graham crackers and marshmallows.
• Be safe with fire: Always be cautious when cooking over the campfire. Keep a safe distance from the flames and use the right tools, like long skewers and campfire-safe cookware, to avoid burns or accidents.

Of course, it’s not just about the snacks themselves—it’s also about where you enjoy them. For me, the best place to enjoy campfire snacks is by the lake, with a cozy fire pit, surrounded by nature. Whether you’re camping by a scenic river, nestled in a forest, or on a mountain top, the location sets the perfect ambiance for your snack time. Don’t forget to bring a comfortable blanket or camp chairs to sit around and share your treats with friends and family.

If you’re looking for a perfect place to enjoy these snacks and more, I highly recommend visiting Pine Cliff Resort. With stunning natural views, spacious campsites, and plenty of activities, it’s an ideal destination for a camping trip filled with fun snacks and unforgettable memories.