As the crisp autumn air sweeps across the Pacific Northwest, campfires become more than just a source of warmth—they’re also a gathering spot to cook delicious meals under the stars. Oregon and Washington, with their stunning backdrops of towering evergreens and misty mountain ranges, provide the perfect setting for a cozy campfire dinner. However, as fire restrictions may be in effect due to dry conditions, it’s essential to know how to safely enjoy campfire cooking in this region. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of campfire-friendly recipes, discuss essential fire safety tips, and show you how to stay informed about local fire bans.

1. The Charm of Fall Campfire Cooking in the Pacific Northwest

Autumn in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) is magical—fiery leaves blanket the forest floor, wildlife is more active, and the cool temperatures make a warm campfire even more inviting. But the changing weather also means adjusting your camping meals. Cooler temperatures call for heartier recipes, and campfire cooking can elevate the experience.

Whether you’re camping in Oregon’s Cascade Range or along Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, fall campfire cooking is all about creating comforting dishes that warm both body and soul. Let’s dive into some seasonal favorites that are easy to prepare over the fire and perfect for those brisk evenings.

2. Campfire Recipes Perfect for Cool Autumn Nights

Smoky Sausage and Veggie Foil Packets

A foil packet meal is a go-to for campfire cooking, and it’s perfect for the chilly fall nights in Oregon and Washington. The smoky flavor from the fire pairs beautifully with hearty sausages and fresh veggies like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Here’s a quick recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 large sausages (your choice of beef, pork, or chicken)
• 4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• Olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary or thyme are great for fall)

Instructions:

1. Prepare four large pieces of aluminum foil.
2. Place a sausage in the center of each piece of foil, surrounded by veggies.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Wrap the foil tightly and cook over the campfire coals for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Campfire Chili with Cornbread

Few things are as comforting as a hot bowl of chili on a cool evening. This recipe is perfect for larger groups or if you want leftovers to reheat later. Pair it with campfire cornbread for a true fall camping treat.

Ingredients for Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 can of black beans, drained
• 1 can of kidney beans, drained
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Chili powder, cumin, and paprika to taste
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a cast-iron Dutch oven, brown the ground meat over the fire.
2. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
3. Stir in beans, tomatoes, and spices, then let simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve hot with a side of cornbread.

Cornbread: You can make simple campfire cornbread by mixing cornbread mix with water or milk and cooking it in a cast-iron skillet over the fire until golden brown.

Maple-Glazed Pork Chops with Apples

Autumn is apple season in the Pacific Northwest, and this recipe celebrates that bounty. The sweet and savory combination of maple syrup and apples is perfect for pork chops grilled over an open flame.

Ingredients:

• 4 pork chops
• 2 apples, sliced thin
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon.
3. Grill pork chops over the campfire, basting with the maple glaze. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side.
4. Grill the apple slices alongside the pork chops and serve together for a sweet, smoky flavor combination.

Dutch Oven Beef Stew

For a one-pot meal that’s hearty and filling, Dutch oven beef stew is a classic choice. It’s perfect for those cold autumn nights in the PNW, especially when you're surrounded by towering pines and misty landscapes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb stewing beef, cubed
• 4 large carrots, chopped
• 4 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef in the Dutch oven over the fire.
2. Add garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant.
3. Pour in the beef broth, then add potatoes, carrots, and herbs.
4. Cover and let simmer over low heat for 1–2 hours, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Campfire S’mores with a Twist

No campfire is complete without s’mores, but for autumn, why not try a twist on the classic? Use peanut butter cups instead of chocolate bars, or add a slice of banana to your s’more for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Essential Campfire Safety Tips

The fall season in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Oregon and Washington, can still be prone to fire risks despite the cooler weather. Before you head out, it’s crucial to check whether fire bans or restrictions are in place. Some areas may have seasonal restrictions that limit campfire use, particularly after a dry summer.

Check Fire Bans with Stacked.Camp: Before lighting your campfire, check for any fire restrictions using our fire ban resources. Stacked.camp offers up-to-date information on local fire bans and fire safety resources to ensure you’re in compliance with local regulations.

General Campfire Safety Guidelines:

• Use Designated Fire Rings: Most campgrounds in the Pacific Northwest provide designated fire rings. Always use these to minimize the risk of starting a wildfire.
• Keep Water and a Shovel Nearby: Always have a bucket of water and a shovel on hand to extinguish your fire completely before leaving your campsite.
• Never Leave a Fire Unattended: This is especially important in windy or dry conditions, which can cause fires to spread quickly.
• Don’t Build Fires in Restricted Areas: In high-risk areas or during a fire ban, consider using a propane stove instead of an open flame.

4. Camping Hotspots in Oregon and Washington for Fall Campfire Cooking

a. Oregon:

1. Crater Lake National Park: As the deepest lake in the U.S., Crater Lake is a stunning place to camp. Fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to cook up some warm, hearty meals by the campfire. Remember to check for fire restrictions in the park.
2. Mt. Hood National Forest: Located just an hour from Portland, Mt. Hood is a prime spot for fall camping. The crisp mountain air and scenic surroundings make it a perfect setting for campfire cooking.

b. Washington:

1. Olympic National Park: With its diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to alpine peaks, Olympic National Park is a dream for autumn campers. Pack some foil packets or chili for a cozy evening by the fire, but be sure to verify fire restrictions before your trip.
2. North Cascades National Park: This park is known for its rugged beauty and cooler temperatures in the fall. A warm beef stew or pork chops by the fire are perfect for this stunning backdrop.

5. Stay Informed and Stay Safe

When planning a fall camping trip in Oregon or Washington, staying informed about fire conditions is essential. Fall often brings dry spells in the Pacific Northwest, especially after a hot summer. To ensure you’re abiding by local fire restrictions, check the Stacked.Camp fire map for up-to-date information.

Conclusion

Autumn in the Pacific Northwest offers a unique camping experience with its cool weather, vibrant fall foliage, and the crackle of a campfire. Whether you’re cooking up foil packet dinners, hearty stews, or a sweet twist on s’mores, campfire cooking is the perfect way to enjoy the season. Just remember to prioritize fire safety, check for fire restrictions, and pack accordingly for those chilly nights under the stars.