What camp oven should I buy?

What camp oven should I buy? It’s one of the most common questions I hear — especially from beginners just getting started with camp oven cooking.

Over the past few years, camp oven cooking has exploded in popularity. As someone who’s been part of this movement for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how many people are now wanting to give it a crack. In my Facebook group, we get new members every day asking for advice, recipes, and gear recommendations.

And the same few questions always pop up:

• What camp oven should I buy?
• What type is best for me?
• What size do I need?
• What brand is the best?

In this guide, I’ll break it all down in simple terms and help you choose a camp oven that suits your needs — without overthinking it.

Don’t get stuck looking for the perfect oven.
Just Get Cooking!

Forget the idea that you need a vintage or an Australian-made camp oven to begin cooking. Visit your local camping store, pick one and start cooking!

As your passion grows, you can always seek out a collectable camp oven down the track.

Cast Iron Camp Ovens

Traditional and dependable. Great for roasts, stews, and slow cooks.

• Pros: Excellent heat retention, ideal for slow cooking, long-lasting
• Cons: Heavy, can crack with sudden temperature changes

Spun Steel Camp Ovens

Lightweight and ideal for travellers or those cooking on the go.

• Pros: Heats quickly, easy to carry, lid often doubles as a pan
• Cons: Less heat retention, needs more attention during cooking

Cast Aluminium Camp Ovens

Rust-free and great for caravans or coastal areas.

• Pros: Lightweight, fast heating, won’t rust
• Cons: Less traditional feel, not as good at retaining heat

Step 2: Choose Your Camp Oven Size

The next thing to decide is what size camp oven suits your cooking needs.

• 4–5 Quart (10 inch): Best for 1–2 people or small meals
• 9 Quart (12 inch): The perfect all-rounder for most uses
• Larger sizes: Great for groups or when cooking big roasts

Owning more than one size can give you heaps of flexibility for different meals.

Step 3: Choosing a Brand

Here’s the truth: brand doesn’t matter as much as people think.

Most modern camp oven brands offer good quality. Focus on the type and size that suits your cooking style, and you’ll be happy.

Some common and reliable brands include:

• Cast Iron: Campfire, Spinifex, Charmate, Adventure Kings
• Spun Steel: Hillbilly, Southern Metal Spinners
• Aluminium: Aussie Camp Oven Co

What to Look For When Buying a Camp Oven

Before you hand over your cash, here are a few key things to check:

• Lid Fit: The lid should sit snug with no major wobble
• Defects: Avoid camp ovens with holes or major dags from casting
• Pre-Seasoned?: Handy for first use, but still give it a quick oil and heat
• Lid Lip: Especially important for coal or briquette cooking to stop them sliding off

Mick Recommends!

9QT Campfire Camp Oven

Versatile in size, the Campfire 9Qt Cast Iron Camp Oven is perfect for keeping you and the kids satisfied on your next family camping holiday.
$69.90

View Product

Final Tips for Camp Oven Beginners

• Invest in a lid lifter – it’s safer and easier to handle.
• Get a storage bag – helps protect your oven between cooks
• Keep it clean and dry – a light coat of oil before storing keeps it in top shape.

More Help for Camp Oven Beginners

Check out these handy resources:

• 👉 How to Prepare a Brand New Camp Oven
• 👉 How to Store Your Camp Oven