There’s nothing like crisp autumn air, colorful foliage, and cozy meals shared by the fire. Whether you’re camping in New England, Shenandoah, or just searching “fall camping near me,” these recipes bring comfort and flavor to your outdoor adventures. Try these fall camping meals on your next trip:

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🍲 Campfire Chili

The ultimate fall camping recipe—hearty, warm, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/plant-based alternative)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Heat a cast-iron pot over the campfire or portable stove.
2. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic until cooked through.
3. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese.

Camping Tip: Make the chili base at home, freeze it, and reheat at the campsite for a quick and easy dinner.

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🥔 Foil Packet Dinners

A no-fuss, customizable meal that cooks right in the fire.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 4 smoked sausages (or chicken/apple sausage for fall flavor)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Tear 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
2. Divide sausage, sweet potatoes, and veggies evenly onto each sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Fold packets tightly and seal the edges.
5. Place directly on campfire coals or grill grate for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Carefully open and enjoy!

Camping Tip: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant fall twist.

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☕ Apple Cider or Mulled Wine

Warm drinks are essential for chilly fall camping nights.

Apple Cider Ingredients (Serves 6):

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 orange, sliced
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 tbsp brown sugar

Mulled Wine Ingredients (Serves 4–6, adults only):

• 1 bottle red wine
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 tbsp honey

Instructions (both drinks):

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Heat gently over the campfire until warm (do not boil).
3. Ladle into mugs and serve hot.

Camping Tip: Bring an insulated thermos to keep your cider or mulled wine warm while you stargaze.

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🍏 Cast-Iron Apple Cobbler

A sweet, crowd-pleasing dessert with peak fall flavor.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

• 5 medium apples, peeled & sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose + 1 tsp baking powder)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Grease a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven with butter.
2. Toss apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg; spread evenly in skillet.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour batter over apples (don’t stir).
5. Cover with foil or Dutch oven lid and bake over hot coals for 30–40 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve warm—best with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you can keep it chilled!

Camping Tip: Swap apples for pears or cranberries for a fun seasonal twist.

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Final Thoughts

From campfire chili to cast-iron apple cobbler, these recipes are easy to make and perfect for celebrating fall camping in 2025. Pair your meals with crisp autumn air, glowing foliage, and maybe even a mug of mulled wine by the fire.