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Camping Hot Dogs

Campfire hot dogs made with roasted hot dogs on sticks for smoky, slightly charred spots. This easy camping classic heats through fast over open flames and finishes with quick bun toasting if you want it.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Hot dogs
  • 8 hot dogs
Buns and condiments
  • 8 hot dog buns
  • 0.25 ketchup Use as much or as little as you like.
  • 0.25 mustard Use as much or as little as you like.
  • 0.25 relish Use as much or as little as you like.
Optional toppings
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheese Optional; add for melty, melty coverage.
  • 0.5 cup diced onions Optional; add raw for crunch.
  • 0.5 cup chili Optional; spoon on warm dogs.
  • 0.5 cup sauerkraut Optional; drain if very wet.
  • 0.25 jalapeños Optional; slice for heat.

Equipment

  • 1 cast iron skillet

Method
 

Skewer and roast the hot dogs
  1. Skewer each hot dog lengthwise on a roasting stick or long fork. Keep the hot dog centered on the stick so it roasts evenly over open campfire flames or coals.
  2. Hold the hot dogs over campfire flames or coals, rotating frequently, for 8-10 minutes until heated through and slightly charred. Watch for visible charred spots along the casing as the exterior browns.
Toast buns (optional)
  1. Toast the hot dog buns briefly over the fire if desired. Move them close enough to warm and lightly toast, then pull before they scorch.
Assemble and serve
  1. Place hot dogs in buns and add ketchup, mustard, and relish as desired. Spread condiments evenly so every bite has flavor.
  2. Top with any optional toppings you choose, including shredded cheese, diced onions, chili, sauerkraut, and jalapeños. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture contrast.

Notes

Pro tip: for the most even charring, rotate the sticks every 20-30 seconds so the hot dog skin browns uniformly. Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat on a grill or in a skillet until hot. Freezing is not recommended because condiments and toppings can become watery after thawing. For a dietary swap, use vegetarian hot dogs for an easy vegetarian-friendly version.