The 5 Great Ways to Make Coffee While Camping

Introduction

The weight was getting heavy on my shoulders while portaging the canoe over my head for the last 800 m.

I was thinking about all the unnecessary gear that I had packed into the Canadian wilderness. I now regretted most of my decisions. Why did I bring that extra camp ax knowing every ounce counted?

One thing I did not regret was my French press. I was thoroughly looking forward to that hot cup of coffee. I could wait for it to warm my bones after paddling through the cold rain all day.

Of all the things I held most dear in my pack, it was my coffee.

For most people coffee is a way of life, so why should that stop in the wilderness? Is it possible to make good coffee deep in the backcountry?

I say yes!

In this article we are going to show you how to make coffee while camping.

Methods of Making Coffee While Camping

1. Chemex

Overview

The Chemex coffee maker is a classic choice for coffee connoisseurs. It’s known for its elegant design and the smooth, clean cup it produces. It may seem like a complicated option for camping. But, with a little preparation, it can be a delightful way to enjoy coffee in the great outdoors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients & Equipment:

• Chemex coffee maker
• Chemex paper filter
• Medium-coarse ground coffee
• Water (filtered, if possible)
• Camping stove or campfire
• Pot or kettle
• Scale (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Heat water over your camping stove or campfire until it’s about 200°F (93°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, bring the water to a boil and let it sit for 30 seconds.
2. Prepare the Chemex: Set up your Chemex with a paper filter, ensuring the three-layered side is against the spout.
3. Rinse the Filter: Pour some hot water through the filter to rinse it and warm the Chemex. Discard the rinse water.
4. Add Coffee Grounds: Use pre-measured coffee (about 1 ounce or 28 grams of coffee per 16 ounces or 450 grams of water). Place the coffee grounds in the filter.
5. Bloom: Pour just enough hot water over the grounds to saturate them, then wait for 30 seconds.
6. Brew: Slowly pour the remaining hot water in a circular motion, maintaining a steady flow. Aim to complete the pour in about 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve: Once all the water has dripped through, remove the filter and discard it. Pour and enjoy your coffee.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Produces a clean, flavorful cup of coffee.
• Aesthetically pleasing and satisfying brewing process.

Cons:

• Requires more equipment and preparation.
• Not the most portable option for camping.

Tips

• Pre-measure your coffee and water to simplify the process.
• Use a thermos to keep your brewed coffee warm.

2. Cowboy Coffee

Overview

Cowboy Coffee is a traditional method that dates back to the days of cattle drives and campfires. It’s a simple, no-fuss way to brew coffee that’s perfect for the rugged outdoors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients & Equipment:

• Medium-coarse ground coffee
• Water
• Campfire or camping stove
• Pot or kettle
• Spoon

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Bring water to a rolling boil in your pot or kettle over the campfire or camping stove.
2. Add Coffee Grounds: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for 30 seconds. Add coffee grounds (about 2 tablespoons per 8 ounces of water).
3. Stir: Stir the grounds into the water and let it steep for about 2 minutes.
4. Heat Again: Return the pot to the heat and bring it back to a boil for 2-3 minutes.
5. Settle Grounds: Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the grounds to settle at the bottom.
6. Serve: Carefully pour the coffee into your mug, avoiding the settled grounds.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Requires minimal equipment.
• Authentic, rustic camping experience.

Cons:

• Can result in a gritty cup if not done carefully.
• Taste may vary depending on technique.

Tips

• Use a bandana or a makeshift filter to strain out grounds when pouring.
• Let the coffee sit longer to ensure the grounds settle properly.

3. French Press

Overview

The French Press is a beloved method for many coffee lovers due to its ability to brew a rich, full-bodied cup. It’s a great option for camping if you don’t mind bringing a bit of extra gear.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients & Equipment:

• French press
• Coarse ground coffee
• Water (filtered, if possible)
• Camping stove or campfire
• Pot or kettle
• Spoon
• Timer

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Heat water to about 200°F (93°C) over your camping stove or campfire.
2. Prepare French Press: Remove the plunger and add coffee grounds (about 1 ounce or 28 grams of coffee per 16 ounces or 450 grams of water).
3. Bloom: Pour in just enough hot water to cover the grounds, stir gently, and let it bloom for 30 seconds.
4. Brew: Add the remaining hot water to the French press, place the lid on with the plunger pulled up, and let it steep for 4 minutes.
5. Plunge: Press the plunger down slowly and evenly.
6. Serve: Pour the coffee immediately into your cup to prevent over-extraction.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Brews a strong, flavorful cup of coffee.
• Easy to use and clean.

Cons:

• Glass French presses can be fragile; opt for a stainless steel one for camping.
• Requires careful packing to avoid breakage.

Tips

• Consider using an insulated French press to keep coffee hot longer.
• Pre-grind your coffee at home and store it in an airtight container.

BONUS. French Press with a Jetboil

Overview

For campers looking for a quick and efficient brewing method, combining a French Press with a Jetboil system is an excellent choice. The Jetboil heats water rapidly, making it ideal for quick coffee preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients & Equipment:

• Jetboil system
• Jetboil coffee press attachment
• Coarse ground coffee
• Water
• Spoon

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Use the Jetboil to heat water until it’s boiling.
2. Prepare Jetboil: Remove the Jetboil from heat and add your coffee grounds (about 1 ounce or 28 grams per 16 ounces or 450 grams of water).
3. Bloom: Stir the grounds to saturate and let it sit for 30 seconds.
4. Brew: Add the remaining water and let it steep for 4 minutes.
5. Plunge: Attach the Jetboil coffee press, and press the plunger down slowly and evenly.
6. Serve: Pour and enjoy.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Rapid boiling time.
• Compact and easy to pack.

Cons:

• Requires a Jetboil system, which can be an additional expense.
• Limited to the capacity of the Jetboil.

Tips

• Make sure to clean the Jetboil thoroughly to avoid lingering coffee oils.
• Pack a spare fuel canister to ensure you have enough for your trip.

4. Aeropress

Overview

The Aeropress is a favorite among campers for its portability and the quality of coffee it produces. It’s lightweight, compact, and versatile, making it an excellent choice for brewing coffee in the wild.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients & Equipment:

• Aeropress
• Aeropress filter paper
• Medium-fine ground coffee
• Water (filtered, if possible)
• Camping stove or campfire
• Pot or kettle
• Stirring paddle or spoon

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Heat water to about 175-185°F (80-85°C) for a milder cup or 200°F (93°C) for a stronger cup.
2. Prepare Aeropress: Place a filter in the Aeropress cap and rinse it with hot water. Assemble the Aeropress and place it over your mug.
3. Add Coffee Grounds: Add about 1 scoop (15-18 grams) of coffee into the Aeropress.
4. Bloom: Pour hot water over the coffee until it’s saturated and stir. Let it bloom for about 30 seconds.
5. Brew: Fill the Aeropress with water up to the desired level, stir again, and then attach the plunger.
6. Plunge: Press the plunger down slowly and steadily.
7. Serve: Remove the Aeropress, discard the used coffee grounds, and enjoy your coffee.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and highly portable.
• Easy to clean.

Cons:

• Limited brewing capacity.
• Requires careful water temperature control for best results.

Tips

• Use a reusable metal filter to reduce waste and improve taste.
• Experiment with different brewing times and water temperatures to find your perfect cup.

5. Instant Coffee

Overview

Instant coffee is the ultimate convenience for camping. It’s lightweight, easy to prepare, and requires no special equipment, making it a reliable choice for quick caffeine fixes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients & Equipment:

• Instant coffee packets
• Water
• Camping stove or campfire
• Pot or kettle
• Mug

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Heat water to boiling over your camping stove or campfire.
2. Prepare Coffee: Pour the instant coffee granules into your mug (adjust quantity to taste).
3. Add Water: Pour the hot water over the granules and stir until dissolved.
4. Serve: Enjoy your coffee immediately.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and portable.
• Quick and easy to prepare.

Cons:

• Generally lacks the flavor complexity of freshly brewed coffee.
• Quality can vary greatly between brands.

Tips

• Invest in high-quality instant coffee for the best taste.
• Add a splash of milk or a sweetener to enhance flavor.

Conclusion

Whether you’re backpacking and canoeing through the Wilderness like I was or on a hunting  trip with the guys, you don’t have to compromise on your morning coffee ritual.

 It’s true that there’s a method for every type of camper. Be sure to try one of these methods on your next camping trip and discover which one works best for you.

Be sure to check out other great recipes in the Recipes section of our site!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Useful items for coffee when camping

Note: These are affiliate links that help us out and are no extra cost to you. We put them here for your convenience.

French Press

Jetboil French Press kit

Camp Kettle

Aeropress

Pour Over coffee maker