🔥 Choose the Perfect RV & Camping Grills

Complete Guide to Portable BBQ, Pellet, Propane & Electric Grills for Outdoor Cooking

🏕️RV & Camping Grills: Essential for Outdoor Adventures

Portable grills are essential for any camping or RV adventure. They transform your outdoor experience, allowing you to cook delicious meals while enjoying nature. Whether you’re boondocking in remote locations, staying at RV parks with hookups, or tailgating at events, the right grill enhances your camping lifestyle. A quality portable pellet grill, portable blackstone grill, or reliable propane setup becomes the centerpiece of your campsite community.

Modern portable grills come in multiple styles – from compact portable electric grills perfect for RV parks, to rugged portable pellet smokers for serious BBQ enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a portable propane griddle for camping, a weber 1200 portable grill, or a coleman deluxe camp grill, understanding your options ensures you choose the perfect cooking solution for your travel style.

Key Fact: Investing in the right portable grill transforms camping meals from boring to memorable. Quality portable BBQ grills provide years of reliable outdoor cooking enjoyment while building lasting camping memories with family and friends. Related Guides: Explore our complete RV accessories guide for camping gear and outdoor essentials.

🔥Portable Charcoal Grills: Authentic BBQ Flavor

RV Camping Grills Guide: The Most Popular Charcoal Choice

Portable charcoal grills dominate the RV and camping market for good reason – they deliver authentic, rich BBQ flavor that propane simply cannot match. These reliable workhorses use charcoal briquettes or natural lump charcoal, offering consistent heat and that signature smoky taste serious outdoor cooks demand. Perfect for RVers prioritizing flavor over convenience, these grills create memorable campsite dining experiences.

✅ Advantages

  • Authentic BBQ flavor – rich smoky taste
  • Affordable purchase – budget-friendly upfront cost
  • Simple design – fewer parts to break or maintain
  • No electricity needed – works off-grid anywhere
  • Traditional BBQ method – time-honored cooking style
  • High heat capability – excellent searing performance

❌ Considerations

  • Longer prep and cleanup time
  • Trickier temperature control
  • Charcoal storage and disposal
  • Less convenient for quick meals

💰 Cost & Value Information

Price Range: $40-$150

Average Cost: $80-$120

Fuel Cost: $3-$8 per bag of charcoal

Best For: Budget-focused flavor enthusiasts, traditional BBQ lovers

🌟 Ideal For These RVers

  • Outdoor cooking enthusiasts valuing authentic flavor
  • Those with extra time for meal preparation and cleanup
  • Budget-conscious RVers on tight budgets
  • Boondockers without propane tank storage space
  • Campers enjoying traditional BBQ methods
  • Extended stays where cooking is the main activity

🔧 Recommended Charcoal Grill

Portable Charcoal Grill, Tabletop Outdoor Barbecue Smoker

For RVers seeking authentic BBQ flavor from a charcoal grill, this portable charcoal grill delivers exceptional value and performance. This tabletop outdoor barbecue smoker provides the rich smoky taste that serious outdoor cooks demand. Perfect for boondocking when you want premium flavor without committing to larger systems. A quality portable charcoal grill like this offers unmatched versatility for campsite cooking.

Why We Recommend It: Exceptional value, authentic BBQ flavor, tabletop convenience, durable construction, perfect for serious campers who prioritize taste over speed.

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Portable Charcoal Grill, Tabletop Outdoor Barbecue Smoker

⛽Portable Propane Grills: Instant Heat & Convenience

RV Camping Grills Guide: Fast & Convenient Propane Cooking

Portable propane grills remain popular for RVers prioritizing convenience and speed. These reliable systems run on 1-pound or 20-pound propane tanks, delivering instant heat and precise temperature control. While they don’t match charcoal’s smoky flavor, propane grills excel for quick meal preparation and those who value efficiency over traditional BBQ methods. Perfect for busy campers wanting reliable outdoor cooking without lengthy prep times.

✅ Advantages

  • Instant heat – no waiting, ready to cook immediately
  • Precise control – dial in exact temperatures easily
  • Minimal cleanup – no ash or charcoal mess
  • Fuel readily available – propane accessible everywhere
  • Quick meal prep – efficient cooking for busy schedules
  • Compact and portable – fits most RV storage

❌ Considerations

  • Less authentic BBQ flavor than charcoal
  • Requires propane tank refills
  • Tank storage takes valuable space
  • Some campgrounds restrict propane use

💰 Cost & Value Information

Price Range: $80-$300

Average Cost: $150-$250

Fuel Cost: $3-$8 per 1 lb tank, $15-$30 per refill (20 lb)

Best For: Convenience-focused RVers, quick meal preparation

🌟 Ideal For These RVers

  • Those wanting instant heat without waiting
  • RVers prioritizing convenience and quick cooking
  • Frequent movers needing rapid setup and takedown
  • Families cooking for multiple people regularly
  • Boondockers without charcoal storage space
  • Those valuing precise temperature control

🔧 Recommended Propane Grill

Weber Go Anywhere Portable Charcoal Grill

The Weber Go Anywhere is the gold standard for portable charcoal grilling. This iconic grill delivers authentic, smoky BBQ flavor in a compact, transportable package. Whether you’re serious about boondocking or just weekend camping, the Weber Go Anywhere provides exceptional cooking performance. It’s the most recommended portable bbq grill charcoal option across the RV community.

Why We Recommend It: Legendary Weber quality, proven reliability, excellent heat retention, compact and portable design, worth every penny for serious BBQ lovers.

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Weber Go Anywhere Portable Charcoal Grill

⚡Portable Electric Grills: Campground Convenience

Perfect for RV Parks with Full Hookups

Portable electric grills offer hassle-free outdoor cooking for RVers staying at parks with shore power. These plug-and-play systems require no fuel tanks or charcoal – just connect to a 120V outlet. The portable electric bbq grill is ideal for balcony cooking where other fuel types aren’t permitted. Perfect when you want simple, clean cooking with minimal cleanup.

✅ Advantages

  • No fuel tanks – minimal storage needed
  • Ultra-safe – no fire hazard
  • Easy cleanup – simple drip trays
  • Campground approved – allowed on balconies
  • Reliable performance – consistent results
  • Affordable to operate – minimal electricity cost

❌ Considerations

  • Requires shore power – not for boondocking
  • Limited high-heat searing ability
  • Mild grill flavor
  • Cord length limitations

💰 Cost & Value Information

Price Range: $60-$200

Average Cost: $100-$150

Operating Cost: Minimal electricity ($0.50-$2 per use)

Best For: RV parks, balcony cooking, safety-first campers

🌟 Ideal For These RVers

  • Full-hookup RV park enthusiasts
  • Campgrounds with balcony/patio restrictions
  • Safety-conscious families with children
  • Those valuing simplicity and minimal maintenance
  • Urban campground stays requiring safety compliance
  • RVers who grill frequently at the same location

🔧 Recommended Electric Grill

Portable Electric BBQ Grill – Non-Stick Coating

A quality portable electric bbq grill with non-stick cooking surface delivers convenient campground grilling. Perfect for RV parks with shore power, this electric option eliminates fuel tank storage and complicated setups. The portable electric grill is ideal for families wanting safe, reliable cooking at established campgrounds where propane or charcoal isn’t permitted.

Why We Recommend It: Safety and reliability, campground-approved, easy cleanup, consistent heat performance, perfect for quick weeknight meals.

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Portable Electric BBQ Grill

🌲Portable Pellet Grills & Smokers: Premium BBQ Experience

RV Camping Grills Guide: Premium Pellet Grills for Serious Enthusiasts

Portable pellet grills represent the premium choice for serious BBQ enthusiasts. These sophisticated systems use compressed wood pellets fed via automated auger, maintaining precise temperatures for smoking, grilling, and baking. A portable pellet smoker or portable pellet grill transforms your campsite into a complete outdoor kitchen. Perfect for full-timers and extended stays where cooking becomes the highlight.

✅ Advantages

  • Exceptional flavor – superior smoky BBQ taste
  • Digital control – precise temperature management
  • Versatile cooking – grill, smoke, bake all in one
  • Set and forget – automated cooking process
  • Premium results – restaurant-quality food
  • Extended capacity – handles large crowds

❌ Considerations

  • Heavier and bulkier than other options
  • Requires electricity for auger
  • Significantly higher upfront cost
  • Pellet storage takes space
  • More complex setup and operation

💰 Cost & Value Information

Price Range: $300-$900

Average Cost: $500-$700

Fuel Cost: $15-$25 per 20 lb bag of pellets

Best For: Extended stays, serious BBQ enthusiasts

🌟 Ideal For These RVers

  • Serious BBQ and smoking enthusiasts
  • Full-time RVers with extended stays
  • Those with shore power available
  • Entertaining-focused campers
  • Premium cooking experience seekers
  • RVers with adequate storage space

🔧 Recommended Pellet Grill

Portable Pellet Grill Smoker – Digital Control

A quality portable pellet grill delivers restaurant-grade BBQ and smoking directly from your campsite. With digital temperature control and automated pellet feeding, this portable pellet smoker handles everything from slow-smoking brisket to high-heat grilling. Perfect for full-time RVers who view cooking as central to their adventure lifestyle.

Why We Recommend It: Premium flavor quality, versatile cooking capabilities, digital precision, exceptional value for serious BBQ lovers, investment-grade durability.

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Portable Pellet Grill Smoker - Digital Control

🍳Portable Griddles: Flat-Top Cooking Versatility

RV Camping Grills Guide: Griddles for Versatile Cooking

Portable griddles, especially portable blackstone grills and similar flat-top systems, offer unique cooking versatility impossible with traditional grills. A portable griddle for camping accommodates everything from breakfast pancakes to steak dinners. These flat surfaces prevent food from falling through grates, making them perfect for vegetables, seafood, and delicate items. The portable propane griddle for camping is increasingly popular for its multi-purpose functionality.

✅ Advantages

  • Versatile cooking – endless meal options
  • Even heat – consistent cooking surface
  • No food loss – flat surface catches all items
  • Efficient cooking – cooks more at once
  • Easy cleanup – flat surface design
  • Family-friendly – safe and accessible

❌ Considerations

  • Bulkier than traditional grills
  • Requires more counter space setup
  • Heavy cooking surface
  • Takes longer to heat evenly

💰 Cost & Value Information

Price Range: $100-$400

Average Cost: $200-$300

Fuel Cost: Varies by propane model ($3-$8 per 1 lb tank)

Best For: Diverse cooking needs, family meals

🌟 Ideal For These RVers

  • Breakfast and brunch enthusiasts
  • Families wanting diverse meal options
  • Those cooking vegetables and seafood frequently
  • High-volume meal preparation
  • Entertaining-focused campers
  • RVers valuing cooking versatility

🔧 Recommended Griddle

Portable Blackstone Griddle – Professional Grade

The portable blackstone grill is the ultimate portable griddle for camping. This iconic flat-top cooking system delivers restaurant-quality results with its spacious cooking surface and rapid heating capability. Whether you’re a portable blackstone grill enthusiast or new to griddle cooking, this is the industry-standard choice. Perfect for families wanting breakfast-to-dinner versatility from a single cooking appliance.

Why We Recommend It: Legendary Blackstone reputation, exceptional build quality, versatile cooking platform, professional results, proven durability across seasons.

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Portable Blackstone Griddle - Professional Grade

📊RV Camping Grills Guide Comparison Chart

Quick reference to compare all grill types at a glance:

Type Fuel Source Flavor Profile Temperature Control Price Range Best For
Charcoal Charcoal Briquettes Strong/Smoky Moderate $40-$150 Flavor lovers, traditional BBQ
Propane Propane Tank Moderate Excellent $80-$300 Quick meals, convenience
Electric 120V Electricity Mild Good $60-$200 RV parks, balcony cooking
Pellet Wood Pellets Strong/Smoky Excellent/Digital $300-$900 BBQ enthusiasts, extended stays
Griddle Propane/Electric Clean/Versatile Good $100-$400 Diverse cooking, family meals
Complete RV Setup: Grills work best as part of a complete outdoor kitchen setup. Explore our RV accessories guide for cookware, utensils, camping furniture, and other essentials to create your perfect campsite cooking station.

💡RV Camping Grills Guide: How to Choose Your Perfect Grill

Answer These Key Questions First

1. Where do you camp most frequently?
Full-hookup RV parks = electric or propane. Boondocking = propane or charcoal. Extended stays = pellet grill. Your camping location determines fuel type availability and options.
2. How many people do you cook for?
Couple or small family = portable electric or small propane. Large family or entertaining = griddle or pellet grill. Consider both typical and occasional guest scenarios.
3. What cooking style matters most?
Quick weeknight meals = propane convenience. Authentic BBQ flavor = charcoal or pellet. Breakfast variety = griddle. Premium smoking = pellet grill. Match grill type to your cooking priorities.
4. How much storage space available?
Measure your RV compartments. Compact travel trailers = portable electric or small propane. Large motorhomes = griddle or pellet grill. Space constraints often determine grill size limits.
5. What’s your budget?
Budget conscious = charcoal ($40-$150). Balanced = propane ($80-$300). Premium = pellet ($300-$900). Start with what your lifestyle requires, upgrade later if needed.

❓Frequently Asked Questions About RV Grills

Can I use a propane grill on a balcony or patio at an RV park?

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Most RV parks prohibit propane grills on balconies/patios due to fire codes and safety regulations. Many parks strictly require electric grills only. Always check your specific RV park’s rules before arriving. Some parks allow propane grills only in designated ground-level areas away from structures. Contact the campground office if unsure about grill regulations – they can usually clarify their specific policies.

How long does one propane tank last when grilling?

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A 1-pound propane tank typically lasts 1.5-2.5 hours of continuous grilling depending on heat level and burner usage. A 20-pound tank provides 15-25 hours of grilling. This varies based on your grill’s design, burner configuration, and cooking temperature. For extended boondocking, carry multiple tanks. At established RV parks and campgrounds, tanks are readily available for refill at reasonable prices ($15-$30 per fill).

What’s the difference between a weber traveler portable grill and other portable grills?

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The Weber Traveler portable grill and Weber Go Anywhere are legendary for quality construction and exceptional heat distribution. Weber’s reputation for durability makes their grills investment-grade purchases. While other portable grills exist, Weber models command premium prices due to superior engineering, longevity, and consistent performance across decades of use. Many RVers consider Weber purchases lifetime investments.

Is a coleman deluxe camp grill a good choice for RV camping?

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The Coleman Deluxe Camp Grill is a solid mid-range option offering reliable propane grilling at budget-friendly prices. Coleman’s reputation for durability makes it a trusted choice for casual to serious RV campers. While not premium-grade like Weber, Coleman delivers excellent value for families wanting dependable outdoor cooking without premium pricing. Perfect if budget matters more than brand prestige.

What grill works best for boondocking without electricity?

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For true boondocking without electricity or shore power, propane or charcoal grills are your best options. Portable pellet grills require electricity for the auger motor, so they won’t work off-grid. A portable propane grill or portable charcoal grill (like the weber go anywhere portable charcoal grill) offers complete independence. For griddle cooking, a portable propane griddle for camping provides flat-top versatility without electrical requirements.

How do I maintain my portable grill during the RV season?

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Clean your grill grates after each use while still warm to prevent buildup. For propane grills, check propane lines regularly for leaks using soapy water. Cover your grill when not in use to protect from elements. Store propane tanks upright and away from direct sun. For charcoal grills, empty ash after cooling and store in dry locations. Pellet grills need auger maintenance and proper cover storage. Regular maintenance extends your grill’s lifespan significantly across seasons of camping.

Can I use a Weber 1200 portable grill in my small RV?

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The Weber 1200 portable grill (if you’re referring to the Weber Genesis model) is larger than most portable options. Before purchasing, measure your RV’s storage compartments carefully. If space is extremely limited, consider more compact options like the Weber Go Anywhere Portable Charcoal Grill or a smaller propane grill. Oversized grills that don’t fit create major storage headaches during travel – measure twice before buying.

What’s the best portable blackstone grill size for RV cooking?

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The portable blackstone grill comes in multiple sizes: 17″, 22″, and 28″ models. For RVs, the 17″ or 22″ models offer the best balance between cooking capacity and storage practicality. Larger 28″ models require substantial storage and setup space, making them better for permanent campsites. Consider your RV’s available storage and typical cooking needs. A 22″ portable blackstone grill handles family meals while remaining reasonably portable for frequent travel.

🎯Final Thoughts: Choose Your Perfect RV Grill

Your grill choice transforms campsite dining from ordinary to memorable. Whether you select a convenient portable propane grill, authentic charcoal experience, simple portable electric bbq grill, premium portable pellet smoker, or versatile portable blackstone griddle, you’re investing in outdoor cooking enjoyment. The perfect grill matches your camping style, budget, and power needs.

Start with what fits your lifestyle – you can always upgrade or add supplementary grills as your RV experience evolves. Many RVers eventually own multiple grills, using different options depending on their current location and cooking priorities. The best grill is the one you’ll actually use consistently throughout your camping adventures.

Ready to upgrade your campsite cooking?
Explore our recommended products above and transform your RV meals into memorable outdoor dining experiences.

For additional camping essentials and outdoor gear, check out our complete RV accessories guide. For power solutions including portable power stations and solar panels that work with your grill setup, see our RV electrical power solutions guide.