The Ultimate Guide to Camping Snacks: 40+ Easy, Tasty Ideas for the Outdoors

Last Updated on 04/15/2025 by Nell Marie

When you’re headed out on a camping trip, there’s one thing you definitely don’t want to forget—snacks. If you’re hiking through the woods, lounging by the campfire, or just trying to keep your kids happy between meals, the right snacks can make or break your trip. Camping snacks need to be easy to pack, not too messy, and of course, delicious.

To make it easier to plan, we’ve broken down camping snacks into categories so you can mix and match based on your trip, your preferences, and your needs. From no-cook treats to campfire-ready bites, here are some of the best snacks to bring on your next outdoor adventure.

More to read:

• Camping with Kids: 6 Tips to Make It Fun (and Not a Total Disaster)
• Camping Essentials List: 25 Items You’ll Want on Your List
• 27 Camping Lunch Ideas (Easy & Tasty!)

Camping Snacks

When I’m packing for a camping trip, one of the first things I think about is the snacks. I don’t know about you, but I always get extra hungry when I’m out in nature—whether I’m hiking, sitting by the fire, or just relaxing in a camp chair. Having the right snacks on hand makes the whole experience more enjoyable (and keeps the cranky moments at bay!).

Over the years, I’ve found a bunch of go-to camping snacks that are easy to pack, delicious, and perfect for all kinds of campers. So if you’re looking for ideas to keep everyone fueled and happy, I’ve got you covered—let’s dig into some of my favorite camping snack ideas!

1. No-Cook Snacks

Perfect for grabbing straight from the cooler or backpack, no-cook snacks are ideal for when you’re on the move or just don’t feel like starting a fire.

• Trail Mix

The OG camping snack! Mix nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, pretzels, and even coconut flakes for your own custom blend. It’s high-energy, non-perishable, and easy to store in resealable bags.

• Granola Bars or Protein Bars

These are portable, filling, and great for hikes or early mornings. Choose ones with real ingredients or make your own before your trip.

• Fresh Fruit

Apples, oranges, and grapes are sturdy enough for travel. Bananas are great too—just eat them sooner rather than later.

• Beef Jerky or Turkey Jerky

A classic high-protein snack that doesn’t require refrigeration. It’s savory, satisfying, and lightweight.

• Cheese and Crackers

Hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda hold up well for a day or two. Pair with whole-grain crackers or rice cakes for a quick bite.

• Dried Fruit

Think mango slices, banana chips, or apricots. Sweet, chewy, and long-lasting—perfect for the trail.

• Popcorn

Popped at home and stored in a big zip-top bag, it’s light and easy to munch on during campfire storytelling time.

2. Make-Ahead Snacks

If you like to prep a little at home, these snacks are great options to toss into your cooler or food bin and enjoy later.

• Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Oats, honey, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and chia seeds rolled into bite-sized snacks. Keep them in a small container in your cooler.

• Muffins

Bake a batch of banana, blueberry, or pumpkin muffins to bring along. They’re a comforting, quick snack and even make a good breakfast.

• Homemade Snack Mix

Mix Goldfish, pretzels, nuts, raisins, and cereal with a little seasoning or melted butter and bake until lightly toasted.

• Mini Sandwiches

PB&J or ham and cheese cut into quarters make perfect little bites for hungry campers. Wrap them tightly and keep them in a cooler.

• Sliced Veggies and Hummus

Cut carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers ahead of time. Store in containers and pair with a tub of hummus or ranch dressing.

3. Campfire Snacks

When the fire’s going and you’re ready to cook something fun, these snacks take your camping experience to the next level.

• S’mores (Of Course!)

The ultimate campfire treat. You know the drill: graham crackers, chocolate squares, and gooey marshmallows toasted over the fire.

• Campfire Popcorn

Use a popcorn popping basket or aluminum foil packet with a bit of oil and kernels. Shake it over the fire and enjoy the fresh-popped magic.

• Roasted Marshmallows

Even without the full s’more, marshmallows on a stick are always a win. Kids and adults love this classic campfire snack.

• Campfire Nachos

Layer tortilla chips, cheese, beans, jalapeños, and toppings in a cast iron skillet or foil pan. Cover and heat over the fire until melty.

• Banana Boats

Slice a banana down the middle (in the peel), fill it with mini chocolate chips and marshmallows, wrap in foil, and heat in the coals.

• Grilled Quesadillas

Tortilla, cheese, maybe a little leftover meat or beans—grill it over the fire or on a camp stove for a gooey, savory treat.

4. Healthy Camping Snacks

If you’re looking for lighter options that still satisfy, these snacks are both nutritious and tasty.

• Greek Yogurt (in a cooler)

Individual cups or a container of Greek yogurt with some berries or granola make a cool, creamy snack on warm afternoons.

• Roasted Chickpeas

Crunchy and full of protein, roasted chickpeas are easy to make ahead and don’t need refrigeration.

• Rice Cakes with Nut Butter

Spread almond or peanut butter on a rice cake and top with banana slices or a sprinkle of granola.

• Apples with Peanut Butter

Slice them ahead of time and toss with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. Pack some peanut butter to dip them in.

• Celery Sticks with Cream Cheese

Classic and refreshing. Add raisins for a fun “ants on a log” twist if you’ve got kiddos around.

5. Kid-Friendly Camping Snacks

If you’re camping with kids, you know snacks are key! Here are some fun and easy options that kids will actually eat.

• String Cheese

Portable and no mess—kids love peeling them apart.

• Mini Rice Krispie Treats

Sweet, sticky, and easy to wrap individually or store in a container.

• Animal Crackers

These nostalgic little cookies are perfect for snacking during car rides or quiet time at the campground.

• Squeeze Yogurt or Applesauce Pouches

No spoon required, and they stay cold if packed in a cooler.

• Graham Crackers

A nice mix of crunchy and sweet. They make a great backup if you run out of s’mores ingredients too!

6. Sweet Treats for the Campsite

Camping is a time to indulge a little. These sweet snacks are great after-dinner options or mid-afternoon pick-me-ups.

• Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

A sweet-salty combo that travels well in a small container (keep them in the cooler if it’s hot).

• Cookies

Pack a few kinds—maybe chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or shortbread. They’ll go fast!

• Trail Brownies

Bake a batch before you leave and slice them up. Fudge brownies or even protein-rich ones will hit the spot.

• Campfire Cones

Stuff an ice cream cone with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and peanut butter. Wrap in foil and warm over the fire.

• Fruit Leather

A healthier sweet option—look for ones without added sugar or make your own by dehydrating fruit puree.

7. Cooler-Friendly Snacks

If you’re bringing a cooler, these snacks are easy to pack and help add variety and freshness to your menu.

• Hard-Boiled Eggs

Great for protein-rich snacking. Just peel ahead of time and keep cold.

• Cheese Cubes or Cheese Sticks

A simple way to add some protein and pair well with crackers or fruit.

• Cold Pasta Salad

Make a small batch of pasta salad with veggies and dressing—it’s a refreshing and filling snack.

• Cold Cut Roll-Ups

Roll deli meats with cheese and maybe a bit of mustard or cream cheese for a quick, bite-sized snack.

Tips for Packing Camping Snacks

• Use resealable bags or containers to keep everything fresh and organized.
• Label containers if you’re traveling with a group or kids—makes sharing easier.
• Freeze juice boxes or water bottles to help keep your cooler cold and double as cold drinks.
• Pack snacks by day or activity so you don’t accidentally eat all the good stuff on the first night!
• Consider dietary needs—make sure there’s a balance of protein, carbs, and fiber to keep everyone fueled.

Final Thoughts

Camping snacks don’t have to be boring or bland. With a little planning, you can bring a variety of treats that keep everyone happy, full, and energized. Whether you’re hiking the trails, chilling in a hammock, or enjoying a night under the stars, having the right mix of snacks on hand makes the whole trip more fun.

So pack your food bin, prep a few of your favorites, and get ready to enjoy some seriously tasty bites in the great outdoors!

Pin for later