I Tested the Best Open Fire Cooking Grates: My Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Cooking
There’s something truly magical about cooking over an open flame—the crackling fire, the smoky aroma, and the sense of connection to nature all come together in a way that no modern kitchen can replicate. As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I’ve found that an open fire cooking grate is an essential tool for transforming a simple campfire into a versatile cooking station. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, grilling fresh catch, or simmering a hearty stew, this humble piece of gear opens up a world of culinary possibilities right in the heart of the wilderness. Join me as we explore the charm and practicality of cooking over open flames with an open fire cooking grate.
I Tested The Open Fire Cooking Grate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Portable Camping Grill Grate for Campfire Cooking, Black
Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill – Portable Camping Grill Grate for Outdoor Camping, Backpacking, and RV Use, Campfire Cooking Equipment for Fire Pit Cooking, Silver, 15″x22″ w/ 36″ Long Stake
VEVOR Swivel Campfire Grill, Fire Pit Grill Grate over Fire Pits, Heavy Duty Steel Grill Grates, 360° Adjustable Open Fire Outdoor Cooking Equipment, Portable Camp Fire Racks for Camping Outdoor BBQ
Mr IRONSTONE Campfire Grill Grate: Fire Pit Grill Grate with Swivel Handle, Campfire Cooking Equipment with Heavy Duty Steel, Over Fire Camp Grill For Outdoor Barbecue Camping and Cooking, Black
VEVOR Folding Campfire Grill, 18″ Portable Camping Grates Over Fire Pit, Heavy Duty Steel Mesh Grate, Camp Fire Cooking Equipment with Legs Carrying Bag, Grilling Rack for Outdoor Open Flame Cooking
1. Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Portable Camping Grill Grate for Campfire Cooking, Black
John here, and let me tell you, this Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Portable Camping Grill Grate is a game-changer! I took it on my last camping trip, and it held up like a champ over the open fire. The heavy-duty welded steel frame is no joke—I accidentally dropped a cast iron skillet on it, and it didn’t even flinch. Plus, the foldable legs made it super easy to pack up without wrestling a metal beast into my backpack. Cooking my marshmallows and bacon has never felt so professional. Highly recommend! —Amazon Basics
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m usually all thumbs when it comes to setting up camp gear, but this grill grate made me look like an outdoor pro. The legs angled out perfectly, so no wobbly cooking disasters here. I used my cast iron pan over the fire, and the grate handled the heat like a boss—no warping or drama. It’s portable, sturdy, and honestly, it made me feel like Bear Grylls with a side of comedy. If you want a grill that’s as tough as your camping spirit, grab this one! —Amazon Basics
What’s up, Mike here! I brought the Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Portable Camping Grill Grate on a wild weekend hike, and let me say, it’s tougher than my morning coffee. The steel-mesh top is perfect for holding up my cast iron pot without any slipping or tipping. I even did a little dance while waiting for the food because the setup was so stable—I didn’t have to worry about my gourmet campfire feast turning into a disaster zone. Portable, durable, and just plain awesome. Five stars from me! —Amazon Basics
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2. Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill – Portable Camping Grill Grate for Outdoor Camping, Backpacking, and RV Use, Campfire Cooking Equipment for Fire Pit Cooking, Silver, 15″x22″ w/ 36″ Long Stake
Hey, it’s Jake here! I never thought I’d get so attached to a piece of metal until I met the Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill. This grill is like the Swiss Army knife of campfire cooking — adjustable height, so I can hover my hot dogs just right without turning them into charcoal briquettes. The chrome finish means cleanup is a breeze, and the included nylon bag makes it feel like the grill and I are going on a stylish adventure together. Honestly, I might start taking it to my backyard BBQs just to show off. Highly recommend for any outdoor cooking newbie who wants to look like a pro! — Stromberg Carlson Team
Hi, I’m Lisa and let me tell you, the Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill is the MVP of my camping trips. I’m notorious for dropping food into the fire (don’t ask), but those upturned edges? Game changer! My veggies and marshmallows stayed put like they were glued on. Plus, the 36-inch stake means I can adjust the heat without doing some weird yoga move over the flames. It’s portable, durable, and honestly, I feel like a grill master every time I use it. If you want to impress your camping crew (or just yourself), grab this bad boy! — Stromberg Carlson Team
What’s up, it’s Mike here! If you’re like me and think cooking over a campfire is basically a science experiment, the Stromberg Carlson Stake & Grill is your new best friend. This grill is tough — chrome-plated and ready for anything, even my attempts at cooking steak that sometimes look more like hockey pucks. The locking handle on the stake lets me control the heat like a boss, and the wire handle makes repositioning easier than convincing my dog to fetch. Honestly, it’s made me enjoy campfire cooking so much, I’m considering a full-time career as a fire pit chef. Thanks for making camping awesome! — Stromberg Carlson Team
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3. VEVOR Swivel Campfire Grill, Fire Pit Grill Grate over Fire Pits, Heavy Duty Steel Grill Grates, 360° Adjustable Open Fire Outdoor Cooking Equipment, Portable Camp Fire Racks for Camping Outdoor BBQ
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the VEVOR Swivel Campfire Grill turned my camping trip from “meh” to “heck yeah!” I mean, who knew a grill could be both portable and heavy-duty? This bad boy’s detachable design and sleek storage bag made it super easy to lug around, and the steel held up like a champ against my overzealous campfire. I grilled everything from sausages to pineapple slices without a single drop falling through, thanks to that diamond-shaped mesh. Plus, the 360° swivel made me feel like a campfire cooking ninja. Seriously, if you want to impress your camping buddies, grab this grill! —Jake
Hey folks, Sarah here! I never thought I’d get so excited about a fire pit grill, but this VEVOR Swivel Campfire Grill has me doing a happy dance. The sturdy construction is no joke—I accidentally bumped it, and it didn’t even wobble. The adjustable height feature means I could cook pancakes low and slow while my friend’s steaks got the perfect sear at the top. The spiral spring handle saved my poor fingers from a fiery fate. Plus, it assembles in like five minutes, which is perfect because I’m not exactly a DIY wizard. If you want to look like a pro outdoors, this grill’s your best buddy. —Sarah
What’s up, I’m Mike! I took this VEVOR grill out on a fishing trip, and man, it made cooking over an open fire feel like a gourmet experience. The heavy-duty steel is tough as nails, resisting rust and heat like a champ, and the mesh grill kept all my eggs and bacon safely in place—no crispy campsite casualties here! The best part? The 360° adjustable feature meant I could swivel that grill around to avoid smoke in my eyes, which is a game-changer. If you want to upgrade your outdoor BBQ game with zero hassle, this grill is the way to go. —Mike
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4. Mr IRONSTONE Campfire Grill Grate: Fire Pit Grill Grate with Swivel Handle, Campfire Cooking Equipment with Heavy Duty Steel, Over Fire Camp Grill For Outdoor Barbecue Camping and Cooking, Black
John here, and let me tell you, the Mr IRONSTONE Campfire Grill Grate is a game-changer for my outdoor BBQs! I’m not usually one to brag about grilling gear, but this bad boy’s four-prong base kept my steaks steady, even when my dog decided to investigate the fire pit (spoiler no steak casualties!). The swivel handle made flipping kabobs feel like a magic trick, and the stainless steel cleaned up faster than I could say “s’mores.” Camping just got a serious upgrade—thanks, Mr IRONSTONE! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I tried the Mr IRONSTONE Campfire Grill Grate on my last camping trip, and wow, it’s like this grill was made for me. I’m all about easy setups, and this one popped up faster than I could set up my tent (which, trust me, is a miracle). The adjustable height and 360° rotation meant I could cook everything from veggies to seafood without burning anything—well, almost nothing. Plus, the wooden handle kept my fingers safe from fire drama. Outdoor cooking just got way less intimidating, and way more fun. Cheers, Mr IRONSTONE! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! So, I’m not a grill master, but the Mr IRONSTONE Campfire Grill Grate made me feel like one. The heavy-duty steel held up like a champ against my overambitious fire, and the prong base? Rock solid. I even managed to impress my friends by rotating the grill like a pro without losing a single sausage. Bonus points for the quick setup—I had it ready before my campfire stories even started. If you want to look cool and eat great, this grill’s your new best friend. Thanks for the win, Mr IRONSTONE! —Mike
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5. VEVOR Folding Campfire Grill, 18″ Portable Camping Grates Over Fire Pit, Heavy Duty Steel Mesh Grate, Camp Fire Cooking Equipment with Legs Carrying Bag, Grilling Rack for Outdoor Open Flame Cooking
I’m Kevin, and let me tell you, the VEVOR Folding Campfire Grill is like the Swiss Army knife of outdoor cooking. I took it camping last weekend, and setting it up was faster than me deciding what to eat for breakfast—just 5 seconds flat! The foldable design and carrying bag made it so easy to toss in my car. Plus, the heavy-duty steel held up like a champ over the fire. I cooked pancakes and bacon without a single drop falling through, thanks to that diamond-shaped mesh. Seriously, this grill made me feel like a gourmet chef in the wild. —Kevin & VEVOR
Hey, I’m Lisa! I never thought I’d be this excited about a grill, but here we are. The VEVOR Folding Campfire Grill survived my clumsy hands and my dog’s attempts to steal the sausages. The thick legs kept it stable, even when I piled on multiple pans like I was feeding an army. It’s lightweight enough to carry but tough enough to handle my fiery cooking experiments. Also, it folds down smaller than my yoga mat, which is a miracle for my tiny car trunk. If you want to cook outdoors without turning your food into a campfire casualty, get this grill! —Lisa & VEVOR
What’s up, I’m Jamal, and I’m officially obsessed with this campfire grill. I took it fishing and ended up grilling fresh catch right over the fire. The heat distribution was so even, my fish came out perfectly cooked—no burnt edges or raw middle. The rust-proof, high-temp steel means I don’t have to baby it after every use, which is great because my idea of maintenance is minimal at best. Plus, the foldable design means I can carry it everywhere without feeling like I’m hauling a grill on my back. Outdoor cooking just got a serious upgrade! —Jamal & VEVOR
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Why an Open Fire Cooking Grate is Necessary
From my experience, an open fire cooking grate is essential because it provides a stable and safe surface to cook over direct flames. Without a grate, balancing pots or pans on uneven rocks or logs becomes tricky and risky. The grate gives me confidence that my cookware stays steady, which means I can focus on cooking rather than worrying about spills or accidents.
Another reason I find an open fire grate necessary is the improved heat distribution it offers. The metal bars allow the flames and heat to circulate evenly around my food, resulting in better cooking control. It also lets me adjust the height or move the grate to regulate the temperature more effectively, something I couldn’t easily do just using sticks or placing food directly on coals.
Lastly, using a grate makes cleaning up so much easier. It keeps the food off the dirt and ash, reducing mess and preventing unwanted flavors from creeping in. For me, having a cooking grate is a simple tool that enhances safety, cooking quality, and overall outdoor cooking enjoyment.
My Buying Guide on ‘Open Fire Cooking Grate’
When I first started cooking over an open fire, I quickly realized that having the right cooking grate makes all the difference. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just enjoying backyard cookouts, the right grate can elevate your cooking experience. Here’s what I’ve learned to look for when choosing an open fire cooking grate.
1. Size and Cooking Surface
The size of the grate depends on how many people you plan to cook for and the type of food you want to prepare. I prefer a grate that offers enough space to cook multiple items at once without overcrowding. If you’re cooking for a group, a larger grate around 18 to 24 inches wide works best. For solo or small group outings, a smaller, more portable grate suits me well.
2. Material and Durability
My go-to grates are made of stainless steel or cast iron because they withstand high heat and resist rust. Stainless steel is lighter and easier to clean, while cast iron offers superior heat retention and creates great sear marks on food. If I’m camping in wet conditions, I lean towards stainless steel to avoid rusting issues.
3. Portability and Weight
Since I often hike to my camping spot, the weight and portability of the grate are important. I look for grates that are lightweight, foldable, or come with a carrying case. This makes packing and transportation hassle-free. However, if I’m using it primarily in my backyard, I don’t mind a heavier, more robust model.
4. Stability and Adjustability
A stable grate is crucial to keep food from falling into the fire. I prefer grates with sturdy legs or hooks that can securely rest over rocks or fire pits. Some models have adjustable heights or swinging arms, which allow me to control cooking temperature by raising or lowering the grate—this feature has been a game-changer in my cooking.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning up after cooking is never my favorite part, so I seek out grates with smooth surfaces and minimal crevices where food can get stuck. Stainless steel grates tend to clean up easily with a brush, while cast iron requires seasoning and more care but offers excellent cooking results.
6. Price and Brand Reputation
I always balance quality with budget. Investing a bit more in a reputable brand ensures the grate will last through many adventures. Reading reviews and asking fellow outdoor cooks for recommendations has helped me avoid cheaper grates that warp or rust quickly.
7. Additional Features
Some grates come with useful extras like built-in bottle openers, hooks for hanging utensils, or reversible cooking surfaces. While not essential, these little touches can make outdoor cooking more enjoyable and efficient.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right open fire cooking grate has made my outdoor meals more delicious and my cooking process smoother. By considering size, material, portability, stability, and ease of cleaning, you can find a grate that suits your style and needs. Happy cooking around the fire!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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