7 Best Rocket Stoves for Camping

Last Updated October 31, 2023
Top 3 Best Rocket Stoves for Camping
Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove with Handle
Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove with Handle
  • Compact and portable, yet heavy-duty
  • Durable construction with powder-coated carbon steel body
  • Efficient cooking with adjustable heat settings
  • Easy assembly and disassembly for quick setup
Lixada Camping Collapsible Rocket Stove
Lixada Camping Collapsible Rocket Stove
  • Lightweight and collapsible design for easy portability
  • High-quality stainless steel construction
  • Quick assembly with a stable platform for cooking
  • Fuel-efficient, utilizing twigs, sticks, and other dry biomass
Spitfire Rocket Stove
Spitfire Rocket Stove
  • Extremely lightweight and compact for backpacking
  • Stainless steel construction with sturdy legs for safety
  • High-temperature, low smoke burn for efficient cooking
  • Simple design, easy to use and fuel with dry biomass
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Whether you love hiking, camping, fishing or solo adventures in the wilderness, getting yourself one of the best rocket stoves will enhance your outdoor cooking experience. It may even help you to survive in an emergency!

Rocket stoves are compact, highly-portable and require no fossil fuels to use. With a rocket stove, you won’t have to rely on propane canisters, pellets or charcoal to warm up or cook a hot meal. Instead, you can simply gather dry twigs, pine cones or other available biomass to get your fire going. Rocket stoves are highly efficient and clean burning, so they produce little smoke and are better for the environment.

If you’d like to get a rocket stove but don’t know where to begin, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ve reviewed the top rocket stoves on the market, and included an in-depth buying guide to help you make the right choice.

What is a Rocket Stove?

Rocket stoves are highly efficient, compact burners that use natural materials to produce high heat fires with little smoke.

Usually L-shaped, rocket stoves feature a vertical, compact fuel chute at the base, that wood and other dry biomass is fed into. Air is then drawn up from a grate beneath the fuel and up through a combustion chamber and out the chimney.

The top of the chimney usually has contoured edges, so you can rest pots and pans over the fire to boil water and cook food. Some models have cast iron stove tops for increased heat distribution.

Rocket stoves are popular in developing countries where fuel is scarce, but their efficiency and portability is perfect for hikers, campers, survivalists and adventurers the world over.

Best Rocket Stoves

Rocket stoves are a fantastic tool for all outdoor cooking enthusiasts. To help you find the best rocket stove for your lifestyle, we have reviewed seven of the leading models on the market below.

Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove with Handle

Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove with Handle
The‌ Bruntmor rocket stove product picture

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Having always been an enthusiast for hiking and camping, the allure of a compact, efficient stove was hard to resist. I decided to give the Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove with Handle a try and it didn’t disappoint.

Right from the start, I was impressed by how compact yet heavy-duty this stove appeared. The powder-coated carbon steel body promised durability, even when faced with the unpredictable whims of Mother Nature. Weighing in at a modest 14 pounds, it wasn’t a burden to transport to my favorite camping spots. Its cast iron stovetop and legs seemed like they were built to last, embodying a rugged charm that I, as an avid outdoorsman, appreciate.

I found the assembly and disassembly to be a breeze, and I was ready to fire it up within 5 minutes of unboxing. The pieces nestled together neatly, promising no fuss in transportation or storage. The handle was a thoughtful touch, making it easier to carry around.

The true test came when it was time to cook. The stove’s performance was commendable. With just a handful of dry twigs and sticks, I had a roaring fire ready to cook on. I was able to boil 8 cups of water in around 15 minutes, and browning hamburger was a success. The heat was adjustable to my liking with a simple maneuver of the feeding chamber – a low and steady heat for simmering, and a fiery blast for a quick boil. Despite its compact size, the cooking grate generously accommodated my large pots and frying pans, instilling confidence as I whipped up various meals.

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The stove demanded my attention as neglecting to feed it resulted in clogged air vents and a dying flame. I had to monitor it constantly, ensuring that the airflow was unobstructed. The learning curve was steep but not insurmountable, and with a little patience, I got the hang of maintaining a steady burn.

I noticed ashes and embers leaking from the air vent at the base, which is something to be cautious about. Placing it on a fire-safe surface became imperative to ensure safety. This stove is not something I’d take on a backpacking trip due to its weight, but it’s a solid choice for car camping or as a backup cooking option at home.

The stove does fall short of the efficiency of a true rocket stove as it required manual feeding of wood, unlike a vertical fed stove where the wood naturally drops as it burns. Despite this, it’s a more fuel-efficient option compared to a standard campfire, making it a staple in my outdoor adventures.

During a recent weekend getaway to the mountains, I decided to put the Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove to the test. The morning air was crisp, the kind that nudges you towards a warm cup of coffee. As the sun cast a golden hue over the campsite, I assembled the stove, which was a straightforward affair. With a handful of dry twigs and a gentle breeze, the stove roared to life. I nestled my coffee pot over the flames and within minutes, had a boiling pot of coffee ready. The aroma mingled with the fresh mountain air, creating a picture-perfect camping moment. The stove’s efficiency was remarkable, using very little fuel for a hearty brew.

However, as the day progressed and the wind picked up, I noticed the need for more constant attention to keep the flames steady. The stove’s air vent at the base had a tendency to clog, demanding a bit of a poke and prod to keep the fire alive. Despite this minor hiccup, the experience was one of self-sufficiency and a closer connection to nature. With every meal prepared on the stove, from boiling pasta to grilling fish, the satisfaction of cooking outdoors with minimal fuss was unparalleled. The Bruntmor stove, with its rugged charm, became not just a cooking apparatus, but an integral part of the outdoor experience, making the trip all the more memorable.

In retrospect, I’d say the Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove found its place in my outdoor escapades. It takes some getting used to, but once past the learning curve, it proves to be a reliable companion for anyone with a love for the outdoors and a good meal cooked over an open flame.

Pros:

  • Compact and Portable: Its modest size and 14-pound weight, along with a convenient handle, make it easy to transport and store.
  • Durable Construction: The powder-coated carbon steel body and cast iron stovetop and legs are built to withstand outdoor conditions.
  • Efficient Cooking: With a good fire, it reaches high temperatures swiftly, making cooking and boiling water fairly quick and efficient.
  • Fuel-Efficient: Requires just a handful of dry twigs or biomatter to cook, making it a sustainable choice for outdoor cooking.
  • Easy Assembly: Simple to assemble and disassemble, making it ready to use within minutes.

Cons:

  • Requires Constant Attention: The air vents can clog easily, demanding continual monitoring to maintain a steady flame.
  • Manual Wood Feeding: Unlike vertical fed stoves, it requires manual feeding of wood which can be a tad inconvenient.
  • Not a True Rocket Stove: Falls short of the efficiency and function of a true rocket stove with a horizontal burn system.
  • Not Suitable for Backpacking: Due to its weight, it might not be the first choice for backpackers.
  • Safety Concerns: Ashes and embers leaking from the air vent necessitate placing the stove on a fire-safe surface.

Lixada Camping Collapsible Rocket Stove

Lixada Camping Collapsible Rocket Stove
The‌ Lixada rocket stove product picture

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Another excellent choice is the Lixada Camping Collapsible Rocket Stove. This model is even more compact and weighs just 11 pounds, so it’s ideal if you like to travel light.

The Lixada Camping Collapsible Rocket Stove is crafted from top-quality stainless steel that meets food-grade standards. It’s very strong and corrosion-resistant, so you won’t need to worry about it getting dented or rusted after a few trips.

The stove comes in several pieces out of the box, but it takes just a few minutes to put together. It can be folded flat when not in use for easy portability, and has its own handy storage bag, so you won’t lose any parts during your adventure.

Once set up, this rocket stove is powerful and simple to use. The cross stand ensures you have a stable platform for setting down your pots and pans, and you can quickly create a clean-burning, hot fire with just twigs, sticks and other dry biomass from the environment around you.

This backpack friendly rocket stove is the perfect size to cook for one to two people without taking up unnecessary space in your bag. You won’t need to carry any heavy propane canisters or charcoal with you, and the almost smokeless burn is great for the environment.

Just keep in mind that some of the edges of this stove are quite sharp, so you’ll need to take care not to cut yourself when assembling and disassembling it.

Spitfire Rocket Stove

Spitfire Rocket Stove
The‌ Spitfire rocket stove product picture

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Great for lightweight camping and hiking, the Spitfire Rocket Stove is another lightweight option that takes up very little packing space and comes with its own storage case.

This stainless steel model weighs just 3 pounds, making it one of the lightest options on our list. It folds up to a very compact size, and since you won’t need to carry additional fuel, you’ll have plenty of room in your pack for all your other essentials.

As this stove is so compact, it’s not the best choice if you have a group of people to cook for, but it’s perfect for individual adventurers or couples. The design is simple, easy to use and is ready to light as soon as you unfold it.

The sturdy legs hold the stove at a safe distance above the ground, so you won’t need to worry about setting fire to your campsite. The stove top is sturdy for holding pans and pots, so you can boil water for a morning coffee or fry some scrambled eggs and steak for a hearty dinner.

The spitfire rocket stove can reach high temperatures with a clean, low smoke burn in just minutes. All you need to do is feed dry sticks and other biomass into the feeding tube, light it up and keep it well fuelled until you’ve finished cooking. The included operating handle is great for dismantling the stove if it’s still warm, as well as removing the nutrient-rich ash back into the environment.

Hot Ash Mini Wood Burning Rocket Stove

Hot Ash Mini Wood Burning Rocket Stove
The‌ Hot Ash rocket stove product picture

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The Hot Ash Mini Wood Burning Rocket Stove is a super compact model that’s great for solo campers and intrepid adventurers. This small stove weighs less than 1 pound and measures just 7″ x 2.3″ when nested to be packed away.

It’s incredibly light design is thanks to its aircraft-grade titanium construction, which is known for its strength without being heavy. This stove has aluminium legs for stability while cooking and is capable of supporting pans and pots up to 12 inches in diameter. This means that, despite its small dimensions, you can still cook up a satisfying meal on the trail.

The Hot Ash Mini Wood Burning Rocket Stove is easy to set up in a minute or two, and doesn’t require any propane or pellets to create a hot fire. All you need is a handful of twigs, sticks and other dry natural materials from your surroundings, so it’s perfect for emergencies or back-to-basics camping. The body of the stove cools down quickly after use, too, so you can pack up and get back to exploring in next to no time.

As this stove is so small, it’s not suitable for family camping trips or hiking excursions with friends. The aluminum feet are good and sturdy, but they’re not as durable as the titanium body, so you’ll need to take a bit more care with them.

All in all, this model is perfect if you like to hit the trail and wild camp on your own. It’s super light, quick to set up, and invaluable in an emergency.

Vire Stove – Wood Burning Rocket Stove Kit

Vire Stove Wood Burning Rocket Stove Kit
The‌ Vire rocket stove product picture

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Next up we have the Vire Rocket Stove. This model is another excellent pick for lightweight, eco-friendly cooking in the great outdoors.

The Vire Rocket Stove comes in one piece, that can be folded and unfolded in seconds for optimum portability. The folded dimensions are similar to that of a tablet device, and it comes with its own handy storage pouch so it can slip easily into your backpack.

Crafted from stainless steel, this rocket stove is durable and lightweight – exactly what you need when heading out into the wilderness. The 45-degree feeding chute can take fairly long twigs, small branches and plenty of other dry biomatter from your immediate surroundings, so you can create a hot, low smoke fire in little time, without needing to carry polluting fuels with you.

The stove top is 3.3 inches in diameter, which while narrower than others on our list, is still wide enough to support small pots and pans. The splayed legs at the base of this stove keep it good and stable even on slightly uneven ground, so you can cook without worrying that it’ll topple over.

Overall, this model is a convenient choice for solo adventurers and survivalists. We like that it folds and unfolds in seconds, yet is sturdy enough to handle whatever the outdoors throws at it.

EcoZoom Zoom Versa Rocket Stove

EcoZoom Zoom Versa Rocket Stove
The‌ EcoZoom rocket stove product picture

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The EcoZoom Zoom Versa Rocket Stove features a different design to the other rocket stoves we have seen so far. This model is fairly compact, but it’s still a little bulky for wilderness hiking and backpacking. It’s best suited for use as an emergency stove at home, or as a powerful, natural-fuelled stove for camping trips.

With a highly durable design, the EcoZoom Versa Rocket Stove is hard-wearing and very stable for use on bumpy ground. You can use a variety of fuel, from dry wood and pine cones collected from around your campsite, to charcoal and pellets.

It offers a very energy efficient burn with up to 60% less fuel than other stoves. This is thanks to its fully insulated combustion chamber and included damper door in the base that helps you to control the fire. It’s capable of producing a heat output of around 23,000 BTU for high-heat cooking, and you can quickly extinguish the fire by simply closing the doors.

Like all rocket stoves, this model gives out very little smoke compared to an open fire, so it’s great for use anywhere. It weighs 12 pounds and has a wide base which keeps it from wobbling as you cook. The cast iron stove top is well designed and will easily support pots and pans of all sizes, so you can cook all your favorite meals.

We also like that this stove is easy to clean after use. Just close the doors and wait a minute or two for the fire to completely extinguish, and then tip or brush the ash out. The side handles don’t get too hot to the touch while cooking, so you don’t have to wait long before you can clean up and get on with your day.

SilverFire Survivor Rocket Stove

SilverFire Survivor Rocket Stove
The‌ SilverFire rocket stove product picture

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The SilverFire Survivor Rocket Stove is another worthy pick. This super durable, stainless steel model has a similar design to the EcoZoom, with long side handles and a wide base for stability.

Lightweight and easy to carry, the SilverFire Survivor Rocket Stove is a good choice for family camping trips, fishing or emergency power cuts. The thick, cast iron stove top supports large pots and pans, so you can boil up some water or cook a substantial, warming meal.

Like other rocket stoves, this model doesn’t require fossil fuels to produce a reliable, hot fire. You can fuel it with dry scrub from the yard, twigs and sticks from around your campsite, or any other dry, flammable biomass. Not only does this save you money and packing space, but it’s also perfect for emergency situations.

The SilverFire Survivor Rocket Stove features ‘clean combustion technology’. It has two combustion chambers, so it’s almost completely smokeless. It also has a built-in heat baffle plate to limit the risk of setting fire to the ground beneath. The clever door design helps you to control the fire, and keep it contained as required in many National Park regulations.

Even though this model is light and has long handles, we think it’s still a little too bulky for hikers. However, it’s a good option if you want a clean burning stove for outdoor cooking or as a backup in case of an emergency.

Buyer’s Guide to Buying a Best Rocket Stoves

Still unsure which is the best rocket stove for your needs? Our in-depth buying guide has the answers to all your questions.

Price

Rocket stoves are available in a range of sizes and designs, but there’s something for every budget. Small, basic models can be found for as little as $30, while feature-packed options made from highly durable materials are around $100 and above.

The right option for you will depend on your intended use. If you’re planning on using your rocket stove to toast marshmallows at the campsite, then a cheaper model will suit you just fine.

However, if you’re heading out into the wilderness or prepping for a disaster, it’s best to pay more for a highly durable and reliable option.

Building Material

When choosing a rocket stove, you should pay close attention to the quality of the construction material. Substandard materials will compromise overall durability, and may leave you out in the cold if your stove breaks down in the wilderness.

We recommend looking for a rocket stove that is made from tough, yet lightweight materials such as carbon-coated steel, stainless steel or titanium. These materials are highly durable and offer good heat and rust resistance for longevity.

Cast iron stove tops are the best choice as they offer great heat distribution for even cooking. However, they will add to the overall weight, so you’ll have to keep this in mind.

Size & Weight – Portability

The larger your rocket stove, the more people you’ll be able to cook for.

If you’re a solo adventurer, a small rocket stove will be your best bet. There’s no sense in carrying a bulky stove around with you if you don’t need it. Small, lightweight options are often collapsible too, so they’ll take up minimal space in your pack.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a rocket stove for family camping trips, you can go for a slightly larger rocket stove than collapsible models.

Bigger rocket stoves are also good as emergency backup cooking stoves at home, in the event of a power cut or natural disaster. They often have built-in handles for easier transportation and thanks to their larger dimensions, wider bases for better stability when cooking with large pots and pans.

Thermal Efficiency & Performance

Thermal efficiency is an important feature. The more efficient your rocket stove is, the less fuel you’ll need to gather to cook dinner.

In general terms, the larger the stove, the more heat it will be able to produce. Thick construction materials also aid insulation and prevent heat loss.

That said, no matter the size, rocket stoves are well known for their efficiency, being able to quickly produce a hot, low emission fire from dry biomass. Smaller stoves will simply require you to top them up with more fuel regularly, while bigger models can be more heavily loaded for a more long-lasting burn.

Why Buy a Rocket Stove

There are many reasons to choose a rocket stove over a gas-fired stove for your outdoor adventures. Let’s take a look at some of the main benefits below.

Highly Efficient

Rocket stoves produce an astonishing amount of heat, very quickly, using just the dry biomass available to you in your surroundings.

You can easily cook a meal by collecting twigs, pine cones, small branches, pine needles and other natural materials that are close to hand. The fuel in the feeder tube helps to regulate airflow so the combustion chamber creates a steady burn.

This makes rocket stoves an excellent choice for hiking, wilderness camping or emergencies, as you don’t need to have commercial fuel on hand to use them.

Great for Emergencies

Thanks to their ability to run on naturally available biomass, rocket stoves are perfect for emergency situations.

If you find yourself lost in the wilderness or if your home is hit by a blackout or natural disaster, a rocket stove will ensure you’re still able to stay warm, boil water and cook food for yourself and your loved ones.

Clean Burning

Thanks to their efficient design, rocket stoves create little to no smoke during the combustion process.

Not only does this make rocket stoves more comfortable and convenient to use (no one likes smoke in their face) but it also makes them a more environmentally friendly choice due to their low emissions.

Safer than Open Fires

Cooking over an open fire is a special experience, but it comes with many risks.

Open fires frequently get out of control and they are banned in most national parks for this very reason. They also require a significant amount of fuel to keep them burning at an appropriate temperature to stay warm and cook a meal.

Rocket stoves allow you to enjoy outdoor cooking over a natural fuelled fire, while keeping the flames safely contained and elevated above the ground.

Portable Sizes

Small rocket stoves are great for hiking, wild camping or any other outdoor adventure.

Many models feature a lightweight, collapsible design, so you can easily stash them in your pack without weighing yourself down. And unlike gas or charcoal stoves, you won’t need to carry extra fuel with you.

Top Rocket Stoves Video

FAQ: Best Rocket Stoves

As outdoor enthusiasts, we understand the importance of having reliable and efficient cooking equipment during camping and hiking trips. In this section, we have compiled some of the most commonly asked questions about rocket stoves, the highly efficient cooking devices that have gained popularity among outdoor adventurers.

If you’re new to the concept of rocket stoves or considering investing in one for your outdoor cooking needs, this FAQ section will provide you with valuable insights and help you make an informed decision. We’ll cover the basics of rocket stove functionality, their advantages, safety considerations, and key factors to consider when choosing the best rocket stove for your camping or hiking adventures.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a casual camper, understanding how rocket stoves work and their benefits can greatly enhance your outdoor cooking experience. So, let’s dive into the frequently asked questions about the best rocket stoves and discover why they are an excellent choice for your culinary needs in the great outdoors.

What is a rocket stove?

A rocket stove is a highly efficient cooking device that burns small sticks and twigs to produce a hot flame. It is designed to maximize combustion and minimize fuel consumption, making it an excellent choice for camping and hiking trips where lightweight and compact cooking solutions are needed.

How does a rocket stove work?

A rocket stove operates on a simple principle of creating a strong draft by creating a tall combustion chamber with a small opening for fuel. This design promotes efficient airflow, resulting in complete combustion of the fuel and producing intense heat. The insulated chimney helps retain the heat and direct it towards the cooking vessel, making the stove incredibly efficient.

What are the advantages of using a rocket stove?

Rocket stoves offer several advantages for camping and hiking enthusiasts. These include:

  • Efficiency: Rocket stoves are highly efficient and use small amounts of fuel to generate a powerful flame, reducing the need to carry large amounts of fuel on your outdoor adventures.
  • Environmentally friendly: Since rocket stoves burn biomass such as twigs and sticks, they have minimal impact on the environment compared to traditional fuel sources like gas or charcoal.
  • Lightweight and compact: Rocket stoves are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry in your backpack without adding much weight.
  • Versatility: Rocket stoves can be used not only for cooking meals but also for boiling water, making them versatile cooking solutions for outdoor activities.

Are rocket stoves safe to use?

When used correctly, rocket stoves are generally safe to use. However, as with any open flame, it’s important to exercise caution. Always place the stove on a stable and non-flammable surface, keep it away from flammable materials, and never leave it unattended. Additionally, be mindful of wind conditions and ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

What should I consider when choosing a rocket stove?

When selecting a rocket stove, consider the following factors:

  • Size and weight: Opt for a stove that is lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to carry during your camping or hiking trips.
  • Construction and durability: Look for stoves made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or titanium that can withstand outdoor conditions and regular use.
  • Fuel source: Determine if the stove is designed to burn various types of biomass, as this will provide flexibility in choosing fuel sources during your outdoor adventures.
  • Ease of use: Consider stoves with user-friendly features such as easy assembly, adjustable airflow, and stability to enhance your overall experience.

Can I use a rocket stove for backpacking trips?

Yes, rocket stoves are a great choice for backpacking trips due to their compact size and lightweight design. They allow you to cook meals and boil water using readily available biomass, reducing the need to carry heavy fuel canisters.

Are rocket stoves suitable for all weather conditions?

Rocket stoves are generally suitable for various weather conditions. However, in extreme wind or rain, it may be more challenging to keep the flame consistently burning. In such cases, it’s helpful to have a windscreen or shelter to protect the stove.

Best Rocket Stoves Recap

Final Thoughts

Any of the rocket stoves we have reviewed would make excellent choices, but the best rocket stove for you depends on your intended use.

If you’re a lightweight wilderness hiker or wild camper, then we recommend either the Bruntmor Camping Rocket Stove or the Lixada Camping Collapsible Rocket Stove. Both of these models are lightweight, durable and easy to carry, so you can enjoy your adventures without getting weighed down.

If you like to take solo adventures into remote environments, then we think the Hot Ash Mini Wood Burning Rocket Stove is your best bet. This ultra-compact model can be nested for space-saving storage, and weighs less than a pound. Despite this, the Hot Ash Mini Rocket Stove is super durable, thanks to its aircraft-grade titanium construction, so it will easily withstand tough conditions.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a rocket stove to cook at the campsite with family and friends, then the larger EcoZoom Versa Rocket Stove or SilverFire Survivor Rocket Stove are worth a look. These models are a little more bulky, but they’re still portable, highly efficient and easy to use. They’re also good as a home backup stove in case of a power cut or natural disaster.

Whatever kind of rocket stove you’re looking for, we’re confident you’ll find your perfect match in our selection.

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