Cast Iron Skillet
A cast iron skillet is the rugged hero of outdoor cooking, renowned for its durability, versatility, and ability to lock in hearty flavors with every sizzle. If you’ve ever savored a rustic campfire breakfast or flawlessly seared steak while off the grid, chances are a cast iron skillet was part of the magic. One reason it’s so popular among RVers and campers is its no-fuss approach: once properly seasoned, cast iron can withstand scorching flames, accidental scrapes, and the rigors of travel without missing a beat.
Cast iron skillets distribute heat evenly, allowing you to whip up everything from cornbread to crispy bacon whether you’re on a propane stove or perched over glowing coals. One of the best things about cast iron is that it only gets better with age: every time you cook, you’re building a layer of seasoning that naturally prevents sticking and infuses meals with a savory essence you just can’t get from nonstick pans.
Cleaning and maintaining a cast iron skillet is simpler than many newcomers realize. After you’ve finished cooking, wipe it out with a paper towel or rinse it with warm water (avoid soap if possible). Then dry it thoroughly—moisture is cast iron’s enemy, leading to rust—and give it a thin coat of oil before storing. Over time, you’ll develop a stunning black patina that practically shrugs off sticky foods. If rust does appear, a quick scrub with steel wool and a round of reseasoning works wonders.
For RV and camping life, size matters. A 10- to 12-inch skillet is often the sweet spot: roomy enough for family-style meals but not so large it’s unwieldy to store in limited cabinets. Plus, cast iron transitions gracefully from a blazing campfire to a tabletop presentation, letting you serve sizzling fajitas or freshly baked skillet brownies straight from the pan. Talk about rustic charm!
Some campers like to store their skillet in a soft case or use a fabric liner to protect other surfaces from the skillet’s rough texture. You can also slip a silicone handle cover on the skillet’s handle to avoid burns—just remember that in the heat of the moment, that iron handle is going to be scorching hot!
Ultimately, a cast iron skillet can become a lifetime companion on your adventures—an heirloom that’s part cooking vessel, part memory maker. From morning scrambles to evening desserts, it’s the epitome of no-nonsense durability and rich, layered flavor. Sure, it weighs a bit more than modern pans, but any cast iron enthusiast will tell you it’s well worth the trade-off for the crunchy, golden crusts and tender middles it produces. As you hone your camp cooking skills, you’ll find it’s not just a pan: it’s the heart of your outdoor kitchen.