Do you love going on picnics or camping trips with family and friends? Then you will surely like this portable camp kitchen project too as this will make cooking, eating, and cleaning up while outdoors really easy. And ‘easy’ means enjoyable!
This kitchen is very portable, allowing you to fold it down to fit your camping vehicle easily. The stand is collapsible and the box is easy to use and close.
It can store all basic kitchen ingredients, cooking, and cleaning equipment. The shelves inside are adjustable in case you need to change some equipment or rearrange items inside. What also makes this portable camp kitchen a winner is that it has expandable parts, giving you extra workspace at your campsite.
This project, though one that can be difficult to build for its many details, only requires common tools and materials that you most probably already own or have access to.
See how this clever idea was built and be inspired to make your very own camping kitchen!
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Contents
Constructing a Portable Camp Kitchen
Materials
- 3/4″ Swedish Plywood
- 1/8″ Tempered Masonite Board
- 3/8″ Luan Mahogany
- Closet Door Hinges
- Road Case Hinges
- Piano Hinges
- Hinges with removable pins
- 1-1/2″ Wood Screws
- Bolts and Nuts
- Pipe Clamp
- Natural Pine Finish
- Polyurethane
Tools
- Wood Clamps
- Table Saw
- Drill
- Measuring Tape
Steps
BOX DESIGN: I spent quite a bit of time thinking about the best portable camp kitchen design that works for me. I found many good designs on the net and borrowed features from some and added many of my own. You may not like this design so feel free to change anything you like.
Design Criteria:
1. Must fit the stove and all cook/clean gear.
2. Must maximize storage space for large and small items.
3. Must maximize working counter space.
4. Must hold fresh and wash water containers.
The two top panels fold out and are supported by the swing outdoors. The doors double as storage space for cleaning and condiment items. I added bungees to the doors to keep things from rattling around. The large storage compartment has adjustable shelves as does the right compartment. Nesting cooking components saves space and the flip-out door design allows easy access to all components.
STAND DESIGN: Given that the design of the box would probably not allow it to collapse with equipment inside, the stand had to fold down.
1. I used door hinges with removable pins to allow the 2 halves of the stand to attach and detach to each other.
2. Sections that were removed from each side to make the stand lighter were reused for fold-down shelves.
3. The back cut out had movable legs attached to rest across the horizontal supports.
4. Supports for a free-standing beach umbrella were added for sun shading.
5. The inside dimensions of the stand fit the outside dimensions of the box so that the box nests inside the stand against the stops.
BUILDING THE BOX: Take care to measure everything carefully! Measure twice, cut once.
Top, sides, divider, and bottom: 3/4″ Swedish plywood
Back and internal adjustable shelving: 1/8″ tempered Masonite board
Doors: 3/4″ plywood frame, 1/8″ Luan mahogany skin, closet door hinges
Handles: recessed road case hinges (1/2″ of the side had to be routed out so the handle fit flush)
Top fold-out counter: 3/4″ Swedish plywood, piano hinges recessed
The box has1-1/2″ screws were driven through the top and bottom to hold the sides. I used bar clamps to hold everything during assembly. There was no glue used on this project.
Pre-fit the doors before assembling the box. The doors should be made a little bit shorter than the opening so they will swing out easily. I used small pieces of scrap pine for the door latches and stop.
I cut extra slots on the inside of the box to maximize adjustability of the shelves for the future should the contents change.
The finish is natural pine with 2 coats of polyurethane.
BUILDING THE STAND:
Sides: 3/4″ Swedish plywood. Cutouts removed to reduce weight.
Hinges: Residential door hinges with removable pins. The original pins were replaced on 2 sets with large framing nails for easier assembly.
Fold Out Shelves: Cutouts were reused and mounted with dowel pins as hidden hinges. Fold-out supports added.
Umbrella Stand: Scrap plywood with 1’1/2″ pipe clamp. The top bracket is removable and attaches with small bolts and hidden crown nuts.
Assemble one short and one long side together and leave them that way. Store them folded flat and secure the removable pins in the box for safekeeping.
You can mark the pieces for easy assembly like top/front.
COLLAPSED & EXPANDED: Here are the finished photos of the Chuck box collapsed for storage and expanded ready for use.
Remember, measure carefully and pre-fit everything before assembly.
MEASURED DRAWINGS: Here’s the measured drawing Portable Camp Kitchen Drawings. You can alter any and all dimensions to suit your own taste. The measurements shown on this drawing are estimates and may differ slightly from the finished projects. I did not include all of the detail for the fold-out shelves and support legs so I’m sure you can come up with your own measurements.
Enjoy!!
Thanks to
Essential Accessories for a Portable Camp Kitchen
Creating the perfect portable camp kitchen isn’t just about building a sturdy structure—it’s also about equipping it with the right gadgets to make cooking outdoors a breeze. Here are some must-have accessories that’ll take your camp kitchen from good to great.
Collapsible Sink
A collapsible sink is a game-changer for keeping your campsite tidy. It’s perfect for washing dishes or just rinsing off veggies, and when you’re done, it folds down flat, barely taking up any space. This little addition can really help maintain order and cleanliness at your site.
Portable Spice Rack
Don’t let the outdoors dull your meals! A portable spice rack is a small, simple way to bring along all your favorite seasonings. Look for one that’s waterproof and compact; it’ll keep your spices dry and within easy reach, letting you whip up flavorful meals just like at home.
Eco-Friendly Utensils
Choosing eco-friendly utensils isn’t just good for the planet—it also makes for durable, lightweight additions to your camp kitchen. Options made from bamboo or recycled materials are not only tough but also easy to clean, which is exactly what you need when you’re miles from a dishwasher.
Cutting Board and Knife Set
A solid cutting board and a reliable knife set are crucial for meal prep. Find a board that comes with a storage slot for knives to save space. Stainless steel knives are best as they resist rust and can handle everything from slicing tomatoes to chopping firewood.
Portable Coffee Maker
For many of us, coffee is essential, even more so when camping. Bring a portable coffee maker to help you greet the morning properly. Whether it’s a rugged French press or a nifty espresso maker, having your favorite coffee can really brighten your day in the wilderness.
Compact Food Storage Containers
Lastly, good food storage is vital. Go for compact, collapsible containers—they not only keep your ingredients organized and fresh but also save so much space. Silicone containers are perfect as they’re light and can be squished down when empty.
With these accessories, your portable camp kitchen will not only be functional but also a joy to use, making your camping trip smoother and definitely more enjoyable.
Safety Tips for Using a Portable Camp Kitchen
Cooking outdoors with a portable camp kitchen can add a whole new level of enjoyment to your adventures. However, to ensure every meal is both delicious and safe, it’s crucial to follow some basic safety guidelines.
Here’s how you can keep things safe while using your portable camp kitchen.
Proper Stove Placement
Always place your stove on a stable, level surface to prevent accidents. Ensure it’s set up away from flammable materials like tent walls or dry leaves. Correct placement of the stove in your portable camp kitchen not only prevents fires but also makes cooking easier and safer.
Safe Food Storage
Keeping food safe in a portable camp kitchen involves proper storage. Use insulated coolers for perishable items and keep them closed when not in use. Store foods at safe temperatures to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses, and always keep raw and cooked foods separate.
Fire Safety
Since fire is a common element in most portable camp kitchens, always have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand or water nearby in case of emergencies. Before starting a fire, check the local fire regulations and conditions to ensure it’s safe to do so.
Tool and Equipment Handling
Sharp tools and hot equipment are commonplace in portable camp kitchens. Keep knives sheathed when not in use and handle hot pots or pans with protective gloves or potholders. Organize your space so that all tools and equipment have a designated spot, reducing the risk of accidental cuts or burns.
Environmental Considerations
Be mindful of the environment when using your portable camp kitchen. Dispose of all waste properly, use biodegradable soaps for washing, and ensure that all waste water is disposed of at least 200 feet away from any water sources to prevent contamination.
Child and Pet Safety
If your camping crew includes children or pets, set clear boundaries around the portable camp kitchen area. Store hazardous materials out of reach, and always supervise any interaction with the kitchen setup to prevent accidents.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the convenience of your portable camp kitchen while ensuring that everyone stays safe during your outdoor cooking adventures. These precautions aren’t just about safety; they also help maintain the serenity and enjoyment of your natural surroundings.
Conclusion
Building a portable camp kitchen is a rewarding project that enhances your outdoor experiences, making cooking and dining in the wilderness convenient and enjoyable. With the right planning and accessories, you can create a versatile and efficient setup tailored to your camping needs. Embrace the freedom of preparing delicious meals wherever your adventures take you, ensuring every camping trip is a memorable one.
For more outdoor kitchen projects, check out our vertical rotisserie project!
