We all know that coffee is an essential part of many people’s mornings. But what do you do when you’re out camping and there’s no coffee shop in sight? Never fear, with a little planning and the right supplies, you can make great coffee while camping. Here’s what you need to know.
The Essentials for Making Coffee While Camping

The Right Coffee beans
The first and most important step to making great coffee while camping is to choose the right coffee beans. There are many different types of coffee beans, and each type will produce a different flavor. For example, Arabica beans are known for their sweetness, while Robusta beans have a more bitter taste. Decide what type of flavor you want in your coffee, and then choose the corresponding beans.
The Right Coffee Grinder
The next step is to choose the right coffee grinder. A good grinder will help you evenly grind your coffee beans, which is essential for making a great cup of coffee. Blade grinders are the most affordable option, but they can be difficult to use and don’t always produce consistent results. Burr grinders are more expensive but will give you a much better grind, resulting in a tastier cup of coffee.
The Right Water
Another important factor in making great coffee is using the right water. If possible, use filtered or distilled water to avoid any unwanted flavors from tap water. If filtered or distilled water isn’t available, then boil the water before using it to make coffee, as this will also remove any impurities that could affect the taste of your brew.
The Right Equipment
Finally, you’ll need to choose the right equipment for making coffee while camping. If you’re using a stovetop method, then you’ll need a pot or kettle. For the pour over method, you’ll need a filter and cone. And for the French press method, you’ll need a press. Once you have all the necessary equipment, you’re ready to make great coffee while camping!
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The Perfect Coffee-to-Water Ratio

The Right Coffee-to-Water Ratio for Designated Tastes
The perfect coffee-to-water ratio is essential for making great coffee while camping. The wrong ratio can result in a weak or bitter cup of coffee. The right ratio depends on your personal taste preferences.
For a strong cup of coffee, use 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water. And, for a medium cup of coffee, use 1 tablespoon of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water. For a weak cup of coffee, use 1 teaspoon of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water.
If you are using pre-ground coffee, be sure to adjust the grind size accordingly. A finer grind will require less time to brew but will also result in a weaker cup of coffee. A coarser grind will require more time to brew but will result in a stronger cup of coffee.
Learn: How to Pack Eggs for Camping
The Best Way to Make Coffee While Camping

The Cowboy Method
This is the simplest way to make coffee while camping, and all you need is a pot of boiling water and ground coffee. Simply add the coffee grounds to a mug or cup, and then pour boiling water over them, stirring to combine. Let the coffee brew for a few minutes before enjoying.
The Pour Over method
This method is slightly more complicated than the cowboy method, but it produces a cleaner cup of coffee. You will need a pour over coffee maker, filter, ground coffee, and hot water. Start by heating up the water and then wetting the filter to help it adhere to the coffee maker. Add the ground coffee to the filter and slowly pour hot water over it, in a circular motion. Once all the water has been added, let the coffee brew for a few minutes before enjoying.
Learn: How to Keep Food Cold While Camping
The French Press Method
This is another slightly more complicated method that produces a rich cup of coffee. You will need a French press, ground coffee, and hot water. Start by heating up the water and then adding the ground coffee to the French press carafe. Slowly pour hot water over the grounds, in a circular motion, until about halfway full. Allow this mixture to steep for about 30 seconds before gently stirring it with a spoon. Then, add more hot water until full and place the lid on top of the carafe (but do not press down yet). Allow this mixture to steep for about 4 minutes before pressing down on the plunger slowly and evenly until all of the grounds are at the bottom of carafe. Pour into cups and enjoy!
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Final words
Making great coffee while camping is all about having the right essentials and knowing the perfect coffee-to-water ratio for your taste. The best way to make coffee while camping depends on your personal preference, but the cowboy method, pour over method, and French press method are all great options. No matter which method you choose, enjoy your cup of coffee in the great outdoors!
See also: Campfire Cooking Kit
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Michael has been a traveler and blogger since he was 17 years old. Now his passion is hiking, traveling, camping, and revealing his outdoor secrets. Stay connect with us for outdoor events and camping trips together.