Cook up delicious meals in the great outdoors with our guide to the best camping stoves in Canada. We've reviewed top models for cooking power, fuel efficiency, and portability.
Most of us get to enjoy camping trips at some point in our lives, but it often means leaving some of our favourite foods behind. Things like fresh pasta, boiled eggs, taco meat, fresh coffee, roasted vegetables… they aren’t very easy to make in the great outdoors. Not unless you can bring our stove to your campsite, right? But wait! What if you could?
Camping stoves are one of the handiest little appliances to have along on a camping trip. You’ll be able to boil water and do all of your pan cooking from the convenience of your campsite. Camping stoves come with a varying number of burners, are super portable and durable, and are very user-friendly! What’s not to love about them?
If you think your next camping trip would be incomplete without a camping stove, we sure don’t blame you. And we’re here to help you find the best one you possibly can. Camping stoves will vary in things like price, number of burners, max pot/pan size, cooking power, portability, and so much more. And every feature will matter to you in the end. Trust us.
This comprehensive guide will investigate the best camping stoves in Canada right now and outline the criteria you should consider while making your purchase decision. Let’s dive right into our top five products.
The Best Camping Stoves Right Now
Top Pick: Coleman Classic Propane Stove
Upgrade Pick: Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove
Compact Pick: Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System
Budget Pick: Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove
Also Great: Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove
Our Top Pick for The Best Camping Stove
Coleman Classic Propane Stove Review
What We Think of the Coleman Classic Propane Stove
The Coleman Classic Propane Stove is truly a classic. And one that surely deserves the honour of our top pick this year. It offers two burners that can fit a 12” and 10” pot/pan at the same time, and with excellent temperature control, you’ll always be able to cook at just the right temperature for your dish. And with the PerfectFlow system, you won’t be bothered by low fuel, high altitudes, or extreme cold.
The windblock panels do a lot to keep your cooking easy, too. And they’re even adjustable so they can adapt to different pan/pot heights. That’s pretty special. The durability of this camping stove is not to be denied, and all of its rust-resistant surfaces are also really easy to keep clean. It won’t become a chore that you’d prefer to avoid, trust us.
There isn’t much wrong with this camping stove (predictably so, it is our top pick, after all), but you might be disappointed to learn that you don’t have a quick-start ignition system on this one — you’ll need to go with the traditional lighter instead. Also, it doesn’t have the most comfortable handle and is a bit heavy, so it might not be the best fit if you’ll be walking far distances with it.
All in all, the Coleman Classic Propane Stove is our favourite overall pick this year. Whether you’re after a camping stove that will last for years, will let you cook multiple things at once, or will save you time on cleanup, this option will never let you down.
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Coleman Classic Propane Stove
Reviewers have a very high opinion of the Coleman Classic Propane Stove, and they absolutely love using it. Many of them appreciate the traditional feel of lighting it with a lighter instead of a button ignition, and the burners stay lit even in the most extreme conditions. The adjustable wind blocks are a big hit, too, and they’re happy with how well the stove cleans and travels.
Coleman Classic Propane Stove Pros and Cons
Buy If…
You’re not afraid of cooking in all weather conditions
Wind-blocking is a priority
A quick cleanup process is a must-have
You’ll need/want to make more than one dish at a time
Don’t Buy If…
You’ll need to carry it for long distances
You’d prefer a quick-start system
Coleman Classic Propane Stove Specifications
Dimensions: 14.5” x 22.5” x 5”
Weight: 11.4 lbs
Number of Burners: 2
Cooking Power: 20,000 BTU
Burn Time per Canister: 1 hr
Max Pot/Pan Size: 12”
Wind Block Panels: Yes
Warranty: 3 years
Our Upgrade Pick
Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove Review
What We Think of the Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove
The Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove boasts a ton of great features, and we are so excited to tell you about them. One of the best things about it is the three-burner design. That’s right, you can cook three different dishes at the same time! It has the space for three 8” pots/pans or two 12” pans — how perfect is that for large meals? 100% perfect.
This stove is also really easy to start thanks to its push-button system. No matches needed, no frustration created. It’s also great to clean — the grate is removable, and every component wipes down very easily. The exterior housing on this one is also super well-made, and since everything is rust-proof, you’ll be able to use this stove like new for years to come.
There are very few reasons you might not want to buy this camping stove, but one of them is the price. This is one of the most expensive camping stoves, and if you won’t be able to take advantage of its full potential, it might not be worth the money. Also, it’s fairly large and quite heavy compared to other similar options, so it won’t be the most portable option for backpacking trips or remote campsites.
All in all, the Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove is our top pick for campers who need some extra cooking space and a wonderfully easy experience. It cooks well, cleans well, and travels well… and it has space for every dish at once! What more could you ask for?
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 3/5
Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove
Reviewers are blown away by the Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove. The amount of cooking space they have means they can cook a variety of dishes for a sizeable group all at once — no one is left waiting for any part of the meal. They find it very easy to clean, and the push-button start is very reliable. It isn’t the most travel-friendly option, but most of them don’t mind. They all agree that it’s worth the price.
Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove Pros and Cons
Buy If…
You want to cook large batches or a variety of dishes at once
A durable and portable design is important
You don’t want to waste time on a difficult cleanup
An easy start is a must-have
Don’t Buy If…
Budget-friendliness is a priority
You’re short on packing space or need to travel long distances
Coleman Cascade 328 Camping Stove Specifications
Dimensions: 7” x 27” x 19”
Weight: 19 lbs
Number of Burners: 3
Cooking Power: 28,000 BTU
Burn Time per Canister: 1 hr
Max Pot/Pan Size: 12”
Wind Block Panels: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
Our Compact Pick
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System Review
What We Think of the Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System
The Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System is pretty amazing. If you spend your leisure days traversing the wilderness on foot or in a canoe, this is the appliance you need along for the journey. It packs very compactly and weighs less than a pound, so you’ll hardly notice you have it along with you until you need it. Then, you can have boiling water in three minutes or less. What stove can beat that?
Since it boils water so quickly, you’ll be able to use each fuel canister for a ton of meals and hot beverages. And the insulated cup will keep those drinks warm for hours, ready whenever you want it. The bottom cover doubles as a measuring cup/bowl, and it even has a colour-change heat indicator to let you know when the water is ready. No guesswork! We told you this thing was cool, didn’t we?
Of course, this type of camping stove comes with a pretty major limitation — it can only be used for heating up liquids. That means soup or boiled water for coffee, tea, and dehydrated meals. Since the included cup is only a litre in size, you’ll also be limited to serving one or two people at a time. As long as these things won’t be a hindrance on your camping trip, you’ll absolutely love this compact option.
Overall, the Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System is a pretty perfect option for folks who need something just a little more portable than the average camping stove. It won’t be as versatile or group-friendly as other options, but it sure is the best for travelling.
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System
Reviewers have a very high opinion of the Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System. It boils water incredibly quickly (2-3 minutes at most) and could not be easier to pack up for travel. They love the temperature alert system that lets them know the water has boiled, and the insulated cup does a great job of keeping the water warm for several hours. They have no complaints.
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System Pros and Cons
Buy If…
You’d like a stove that’s easy on fuel
Your camping stove needs to go absolutely everywhere with you
You’d like an all-in-one package
You want to know for sure when the temperature is right
Don’t Buy If…
You want to cook anything other than beverages, soups, and dehydrated meals
You’re serving more than 1-2 people
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System Specifications
Dimensions: 4.1” x 4.1” x 7.1”
Weight: 0.8 lbs
Number of Burners: 1
Cooking Power: 6000 BTU
Warranty: 1 year
Our Budget Pick
Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove Review
What We Think of the Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove
For such an affordable option, the Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove really pulls out all the stops to make sure you have an amazing cooking experience. The large burner can fit pots/pans up to 10” (12” if you don’t need the edges) and is powerful enough to get your water boiling and your foods sizzling in no time. The large base keeps it really stable on all surfaces, too. Stirring is easy (and stress-free)!
This is also one of the most durable camping stoves around — the stove is made with high-quality, rust-resistant materials, and it comes with an ultra-durable travelling case too. You can take this thing anywhere without worrying about it getting damaged. No matter where you plan on going, this camping stove will serve you well.
One of the only things that might not thrill you is the fact that this option only has one burner — for some meals, you might be able to cook everything in one pan, but for others, you’ll have to cook in batches. Not the most convenient thing in the world. Also, it doesn’t perform very well at the low end of its temperature range, so you’ll have to adjust your cooking accordingly.
Overall, the Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove is our favourite choice for budget-conscious shoppers. It doesn’t have the greatest temperature range in the world, but for solo campers, couples, and small families, it’s an unbeatable addition to a campsite.
Performance: 4/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove
Reviewers have mostly great things to say about the Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove. Some of them have some issues with the temperature range — on lower settings it tends to just put out the burner. They’re also really happy with how durable the stove and the carry case are, and the price was right for everybody.
Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove Pros and Cons
Buy If…
You’ll be travelling through rough terrain with it
Affordability is your priority
You want a camping stove that’ll last
You don’t want to worry about stability
Don’t Buy If…
You’ll want to make a variety of dishes at once
Precise temperature control is important
Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Camping Stove Specifications
Dimensions: 14” x 12.2” x 4.7”
Weight: 5.5 lbs
Number of Burners: 1
Cooking Power: 7650 BTU
Burn Time per Canister: 1.25 hrs
Max Pot/Pan Size: 10”
Wind Block Panels: No
Warranty: 1 year
Also Great
Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove Review
What We Think of the Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove
The Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove will make an incredibly well-rounded addition to your camping checklist. It comes with two burners and a 2-in-1 design that lets you cook in a pot/pan on one burner and grill foods on the other! No need to bring a second appliance along. The temperature control is very precise, so it’s also perfect for people who make a lot of dishes at a simmer.
We’re also really pleased with the durability of this camping stove, and you’ll definitely appreciate the quality of its wind-block panels. They keep your burners lit on windy days, and they can also double as little side tables! This one is super easy to maintain, and it’s easy on its propane use even on high heat — you won’t have any management concerns with this one, that’s for sure.
There are a couple of things that we don’t quite love about this one, folks. Although it does come with two burners, one of them is only usable as a grill, not as a true stovetop burner, so hopefully you won’t actually need two at once. Also, the handle is not very comfortable, and the grill is fairly large, so it isn’t the best option if you’ve got a long trek to your campsite.
Overall, the Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove is the best choice for people who like to mix and match their cooking methods while they’re camping. You can make any dish of choice on this one, and it’s surprisingly efficient with its propane. You can’t go wrong if versatility is what you’re after!
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 3/5
Quality: 4.5/5
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove
Reviewers are very happy with the Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove. They absolutely love that they can use the stovetop burner and the grill burner at the same time, and the fact that this one little appliance lets them cook with both methods is their favourite thing. They’re also really happy with its windblock panels and durable travel case. It still isn’t the most comfortable thing to carry, though.
Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove Pros and Cons
Buy If…
You’d like to cook every dish on one appliance
You’ll be cooking in open areas a lot
A low-maintenance option is ideal
You cook a lot of your dishes at a simmer
Don’t Buy If…
You’ll need to cook multiple things on the stovetop simultaneously
You won’t be travelling with it too far or too often
Coleman 2-Burner Camping Stove Specifications
Dimensions: 25.5” x 8” x 10”
Weight: 14.9 lbs
Number of Burners: 2
Cooking Power: 20,000 BTU
Burn Time per Canister: 2 hrs
Max Pot/Pan Size: 10”
Wind Block Panels: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
How to Properly Choose Your Camping Stove
Price
Some camping stoves will be as affordable as $60, others can reach $250+. In general, more expensive camping stoves will have more burners, a higher BTU rating, a push-button start, and better longevity.
Cooking Power
The cooking power of a camping stove is measured in BTU and will usually range between 5000 and 25,000. Better cooking performance is related to a higher BTU rating, but so is a higher price tag. Generally, you should look for at least 5000-6000 BTU per burner.
Number of Burners
Camping stoves can be designed with either one, two, or three burners. The more burners a stove has, the more expensive it will be, but you’ll also be able to cook multiple dishes at once. You’ll have to weigh the cost versus the convenience.
Burn Time per Canister
Every camping stove will offer different fuel efficiency. The burn time per fuel canister will typically fall between 1 hour and 2.5 hours. In almost all cases, single-burner stoves will be the most efficient, and three-burner stoves the most fuel-demanding.
Wind Block Panels
Wind block panels do a lot to improve the cooking experience when using a camping stove, and most models will have them. Some will be fixed in place, others will be adjustable, but they’ll all help keep your burners lit on windy days. Some even fold down to act as side tables.
Portability
Some camping stoves are more compact and lighter in weight than others. If you’ll be trekking long distances between campsite and car, you’ll want to pay special attention to its portability.
Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.