One grill to rule them all – Blackstone.
I’m a huge fan of this brand’s products. It offers a wide range of grills and griddles, which are amazing to have when you’re camping.
But with so many of them available, which one is the best?
Well, that depends on your needs.
Today, we’re reviewing the best Blackstone for camping. Let’s dive in!
Best Blackstone For Camping
- Best Overall Blackstone for Camping: Blackstone 2-Burner 22” Griddle
- Best Blackstone For Camping w/ Hood & Stand: Blackstone 22” Griddle With Hood & Stand
- Best Budget Blackstone for Camping : Blackstone 17” Propane Gas Griddle
- Best Single Burner Blackstone w/ Hood: Blackstone 17” Tabletop Griddle With Hood
- Premium Camping Blackstone Set-up: On-The-Go Tailgater Combo (Griddle & Grill)
- Best Electric/Plug-in Blackstone for Camping: Blackstone 22” Electric Tabletop Griddle
- Best Blackstone Cooking Station for camping: Blackstone 36” Griddle Cooking Station
Blackstone 2-Burner 22” Griddle – 1666
Weight: 26 lbs | Product Dimensions: 21″ x 22.5″ x 8.8″ | Griddle Dimensions: 16.3″ x 22.3″ (361 sq in) | Heat Output: 24,000 BTUs | Burners: 2 | Fuel Type: propane
When it comes to Blackstone products, this model is the crowd’s favorite.
It checks all the boxes while maintaining a decent price tag.
First off, we’re talking about 361 square inches of cooking surface.
To put that differently – there’s enough room to fit a dozen burgers or about 30 hot dogs at once.
But what’s really great about this grill is that it has two independent heat zones.
Basically, there are two “H” style burners, which evenly distribute the heat across the cooking surface, and you can set them to different temperatures.
For example, having two heat zones allows you to prepare fish and meat at the same time without overcooking or undercooking anything.
I also like the fact that this griddle has tiny rubber feet. They prevent it from moving across the surface.
The feet are also adjustable, so you can keep the griddle leveled even when on uneven terrain.
You can check out our video review here:
Pros
- Two control zones allow you to cook different foods at the same time
- Adjustable rubber feet keep the griddle sturdy and leveled
- It’s one of the more affordable Blackstone griddles
Cons
- If you want to use a larger canister, you need to buy an adapter hose separately
Best for: a group or family of campers with limited storage space
Blackstone 22” Griddle With Hood & Stand
Weight: 64.5 lbs | Product Dimensions: 24″ x 42″ x 44″ | Griddle Dimensions: 16.3″ x 22.3″ (361 sq in) | Heat Output: 24,000 BTUs | Burners: 2 | Fuel Type: propane
This Blackstone 22” version comes with a hood and legs.
Now, you might be thinking, is the upgrade worth the place on this list? And it definitely is.
The hood really comes in handy in less-than-ideal weather as it ensures the burners are putting out 24,000 BTUs at all times.
Plus, the hood also allows you to make some great camping dishes, like nachos or pizza.
The fact that this griddle features legs means that you can set it up wherever you want.
Each leg is adjustable, so you can keep the griddle leveled on uneven terrain.
There’s also a side shelf for keeping the food or the plates close at hand.
It’s also worth noting that this model comes with a bulk adapter hose.
What this does is it allows you to connect a 20 lbs propane tank and grill food for much longer.
Pros
- The hood protects your griddle surface and traps heat underneath
- Comes with a bulk adapter hose, which allows you to connect a 20 lbs propane tank
- The frame folds down compactly, so it takes little space in your trunk
Cons
- Somewhat difficult to move around
Best for: longer camping trips
Blackstone 17” Propane Gas Griddle – 1650B
Weight: 28 lbs | Product Dimensions: 21.8″ x 21.6″ x 8.6″ | Griddle Dimensions: 15.5″ x 17.3″ (267 sq in) | Heat Output: 12,500 BTUs | Burners: 1 | Fuel Type: propane
If you’re camping solo or with a partner, you might not need a large griddle.
In that case, the Blackstone 17” might be a good option for you.
This model has a cooking surface of 267 square inches, which is wide enough for nine burgers at a time.
The griddle features a single “H” style burner that provides even heat distribution at 12,500 BTUs.
Not only does it have good heat output, but the burner is also very energy-efficient.
Among Blackstone griddles, the 1650B is the most affordable and lightest model out there.
This makes it an excellent option for anyone switching to a griddle.
Like other tabletop models, this griddle features adjustable rubber feet.
They allow you to place the griddle on any surface and keep it leveled while in use.
Pros
- With 267 square inches of cooking area, you can make up to nine burgers at a time
- The griddle top can be turned upside down for easy storage and protection against the elements
- More affordable and lightweight than other Blackstones
Cons
- No double heat zones
Best for: a group of 2-3 campers
Blackstone 17” Tabletop Griddle with Hood – 1814
Weight: 38 lbs | Product Dimensions: 22″ x 22″ x 12″ | Griddle Dimensions: 15.5″ x 17.3″ (267 sq in) | Heat Output: 12,000 BTUs | Burners: 1 | Fuel Type: propane
Technically speaking, the 1814 is basically the 1650B with a hood.
But here’s the thing – the hood does so much for the grill, it’s worth being recognized as a separate model.
When it comes to capacity, this griddle is the same as any other 17” Blackstone griddle.
You can cook about nine burgers or a dozen eggs at once.
And just like its basic counterpart, this model features a single 12,000-BTU burner.
Obviously, the star characteristic of this model is the hood.
It ensures the heat underneath is achieving a constant output, allowing your food to cook evenly.
This is especially useful when outdoor temperatures are low, as well as during windy or rainy weather.
Keep in mind that the lid adds about 10 lbs to the overall weight of the griddle.
It also makes the whole construction a few inches higher.
While not drastic, the difference can be noticeable if you have limited storage space.
Pros
- The lid keeps the heat output consistent even in bad weather
- The patented rear grease management system keeps everything tidy while grilling
- Can fit up to nine burgers on the cooking surface at a time
Cons
- A bit heavier and bulkier than non-hooded version
Best for: cooking in bad weather
On-The-Go Tailgater Combo (Griddle & Grill)
Weight: 88 lbs | Product Dimensions: 23″ x 48.5″ x 38.5″ | Griddle Dimensions: 15.5″ x 17.3″ (267 sq in) | Heat Output: 12,000 BTUs (H burner) + 18,500 BTUs (round burner) | Burners: 2 | Fuel Type: propane
On the right side, this model features a 17” griddle.
On the left, it has a 17” removable grill box with cast iron plates.
Both have their own hoods and own burners, allowing you to use both sides individually.
Together, the burners have a total output of 30,500 BTUs, which is perfect for fast grilling.
Of course, it’s also worth noting that this model has an X-shaped stand that folds down when not in use.
The stand also features wheels on one side and a handle on the other, allowing you to easily move the griddle around.
The handle doubles as a side table, which is handy for having spices or plates close to hand when cooking.
Pros
- Features both a grill and a griddle, allowing you to make different foods at the same time
- Comes with a stand that also doubles as a cart for easier transportation
- The side table allows you to keep cooking essentials within reach
Cons
- Pretty bulky even when packed down
Best for: camping trips with a large family
Blackstone 22” Electric Tabletop Griddle
Weight: 30.5 lbs | Product Dimensions: 20.3″ x 24″ x 7.3″ | Griddle Dimensions: 13.5″ x 22.8″ (307 sq in) | Heat Output: 1,600 watts | Burners: 2 | Fuel Type: electric
Blackstone also has a series of electric models, among which this 22” griddle stands out.
With a cooking surface of 307 square inches, you can make up to a dozen eggs or 16 bacon strips at a time.
And just like other Blackstone models of the same size, this one also features two heat zones, allowing you to prepare different foods at the same time.
This model features a hood, but this one is made of glass.
So, not only does it trap heat for even cooking, but it also looks very sleek while doing that.
Plus, it’s less bulky than the metal hood so it takes less space when it comes to storage.
The griddle features the EZ-Touch control dial, which is easy to use and very straightforward.
The LCD display is large and easy to read, even with the sun gleaming on it.
Pros
- Features a glass hood, which is both stylish and traps heat for even cooking
- EZ-Touch control dials are easy to use and allow you to create independent heat zones
- The grease cup can be washed in the dishwasher
Cons
- Not compatible with metal utensils
Best for: camping in locations with an available power outlet
Blackstone 36” Griddle Cooking Station
Weight: 133 lbs | Product Dimensions: 25.5″ x 62.8″ x 36″ | Griddle Dimensions: 21.5″ x 35.8″ (769 sq in) | Heat Output: 60,000 BTUs | Burners: 4 | Fuel Type: propane
Last but not least, we have the 36” griddle station.
From your backyard to camping, this griddle is your best friend if you’re making food for a larger group.
This model has a cooking surface of a whopping 769 square inches.
What this means is you can cook about 30 burgers or 126 hot dogs at a time.
Not just that, but the model features four burners, allowing you to create independent heat zones.
Together, the burners have a total output of 60,000 BTUs, which is more than enough for whatever you might be cooking.
Of course, this model comes with the stand, which is just as impressive.
First, it features four industrial wheels, which allow you to move the griddle across uneven terrain without a problem.
There’s a side shelf on each side, which is handy for keeping food, seasoning, or plates close to hand.
The stand also has a paper towel holder, which is always handy.
Pros
- Features 4 independent zones, so you can make different foods at the same time
- Can make up to 126 hot dogs at once
- The stand features industrial wheels, side shelves, and a paper towel holder
Cons
- Very bulky and heavy
Best for: very large camping groups
What To Consider When Choosing A Blackstone
As you can see, there are a lot of similarities between Blackstone models.
So, how does one choose between them?
Well, there are several key factors to keep in mind. In this section, we’ll go over each one individually.
Size & Cooking Area
How many people will you be making food for?
Blackstone griddles come in a few sizes. The smallest ones are 17”, which is suitable for one to four people.
On the other side of the spectrum, there are 36” cooking stations, which can make enough food for an entire group at once.
Of course, the size of the model is in direct relation to the size of the cooking area.
Do you need to cook all the food at once?
If you have limited storage space, that’s something worth considering.
Number Of Burners
Another thing to keep in mind is the number of burners a stove might have.
The larger the model, the more burners it can hold and the higher heat it can output.
But not just that. Each burner creates a separate cooking zone.
You can adjust the heat on each burner individually to cook different foods simultaneously.
For instance, one burner could be on medium heat, while the other is set on high.
This is like the difference needed for grilling steaks and for cooking fish.
So, think about how many burners you need.
Having a single burner is not a bad option.
If you’re cooking similar foods simultaneously (i.e. burgers and chicken breasts), you don’t really need another cooking zone.
If you do want more, two burners are more than enough in most cases.
Having three or more cooking zones is only necessary when making tons of different meals for a larger group.
BTUs
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, which is a measurement of the total heat output and fuel consumption per hour.
In other words, it shows how much heat the burner can produce and how much fuel it will use.
In terms of output, you might think that the higher the BTU, the better.
But you should also keep in mind that a burner with a higher BTU rating will also spend fuel at a faster rate.
So, what you should be aiming for is balance.
You don’t need your grill to be hotter than hell in order to cook some burgers, right?
When it comes to Blackstone, all models feature burners with ratings between 12,000 and 15,000 BTUs.
The difference between the numbers is not that big, so you won’t really notice a huge difference in terms of cooking time.
Weight & Portability
Blackstone griddles aren’t really made for backpacking.
But even if you’re car or RV camping, weight and portability are something to keep in mind.
Depending on the location, you might have to carry the griddle to the campsite.
Obviously, the larger the model, and the more features it has, the heavier it is.
However, larger models come with stands.
And since Blackstone stands come with wheels, that makes it easy to move them around on uneven surfaces.
Electric Vs. Gas
The next thing to keep in mind is how the griddle is powered.
Most Blackstone models work on gas, with smaller ones designed to work with a 1 lbs propane tank.
Unlike larger models, these don’t come with an adapter hose for larger tanks, so you have to buy them separately.
However, the brand also offers a few electric options as well.
These are pretty straightforward to use and feature glass hoods for a more compact and sleek design.
Additional Features
Blackstone griddles don’t really have tons of bells and whistles.
The most noticeable feature of certain models is the hood.
The hood allows you to turn the griddle into an oven, so you can make a variety of different meals while camping.
The hood also ensures the weather elements don’t mess with the heat or your food.
Another feature worth mentioning is the stand.
Larger models come with a stand, so you don’t need a special surface for your griddle.
These stands feature one or two side shelves, which come in handy for keeping seasoning or utensils close at-hand.
Furthermore, the stands feature wheels, which make the whole construction much easier to move around.
What To Cook On A Blackstone Griddle While Camping
Well, that’s the best part about Blackstone griddles – you can cook almost anything you want.
Of course, this includes camping classics like burgers, hot dogs, or steaks.
But the flat surface is also great for making breakfast, including sunny-side-up eggs and pancakes.
If your model features a lid, then you also have an oven at your disposal.
You can make anything from casserole to pizza.
Tips For Maintaining A Blackstone
Blackstone griddles are generally rather easy to clean.
After each cooking, you should scrape away the food remains and clean up the excess grease.
In most cases, you won’t even need a spatula.
Just sprinkle some warm water on the surface, then use paper towels to clean the residue.
Why is it important to clean it after every use?
Well, if there are leftover oil or food scraps stuck to the cooking surface, any food you place on top of that will start sticking to it.
After cleaning, you should also season your grill with a light coat of oil. That way, it maintains a non-stick cooking surface.
When not in use, keep your Blackstone grill stored in a dry and cool place to avoid rusting.
FAQs
Is A Blackstone Griddle Good For Camping?
The Blackstone griddle is an amazing addition to your camping cooking gear, as you can make pretty much any meal on it.
The only real downside is that it’s somewhat bulky, so it’s not suitable for backpacking.
Which Is Better, A 17” Or 22” Blackstone Griddle?
That depends on the number of people you’re cooking for.
While the 17” griddle is suitable for 1-4 people, the 22” is a better option for larger groups.
Is A Griddle Worth It For Camping?
Definitely. It allows you to make a wider range of meals compared to a regular grill.
The flat surface is ideal for making pancakes, eggs, and whatever else that comes to mind.
Which Blackstone Is Best For Camping?
My personal favorite is the 22″ model, but each person has different needs!
Can A Blackstone Stay Outside?
Yes, but make sure to cover it when not in use.
Even though it’s made of quality materials, it can rust if exposed to moisture for too long.
How Long Will A Blackstone Last?
With regular maintenance, a Blackstone grill can last you a very long time.
By this, I mean anywhere between one and two decades.
Do Blackstone Grills Rust Easily?
Blackstone grills don’t rust easily.
But without proper maintenance, that’s inevitable.
That’s why it’s important to clean it regularly and store it properly when not in use.
To Sum Things Up
Blackstone makes amazing griddles that are fantastic for camping trips.
Our favorite pick for the best Blackstone for camping is definitely the 22” griddle with double burners (1666).
It’s not too big or too small, and the double burners allow you to make different foods at the same time.
However, when it comes to choosing the best Blackstone for camping for you, there are plenty to choose from to make your camping experience is its best.
Happy griddling!