May 6, 2022 | By Mallory Paige & Morgan Tilton
Whether car camping, backyard grilling, enjoying festival music, or hiking in to your favorite lakeside campsite, these are the best camping chairs for every use and budget.
There’s no better way to end a day outside than gathered around the campfire. And while we’ve all spent many an evening sitting on the ground or balancing on a log, it’s hard to beat the pleasure and rejuvenation of sitting in a good camp chair.
In order to find the best camping chairs, we’ve spent countless hours testing out chairs in a variety of locations and weather conditions. From the wilds of the Desolation Wilderness to the swamps of Apalachicola, from birthday parties at the park to relaxing in the living room, our testers have spent hours setting up, taking down, and sitting.
While testing and ranking camping chairs, we focused primarily on comfort, value, and portability (such as size and weight). Secondary considerations include durability, ease of setup, and additional features (like cupholders and pockets).
And while there’s no single “best” chair that will suit everyone, we’ve broken the list into categories that will help identify the best chair for you. For even more help finding the best camp chair, refer to our buyer’s guide and FAQ at the end of this article.
Otherwise, scroll through to see all of our recommended buys or jump to the category you’re looking for:
For ultimate all-around comfort, spaciousness, and stability, we reach for the Camp Xtra ($70) from REI every time. Around the campfire, this is the first chair that gets filled. The price is moderate, the features are plentiful, and the weight isn’t the heaviest on our list, making it a solid choice as a daily driver.
At 10 pounds, the frame is made of thick, heavy-duty steel tubing that’s powder-coated for durability — and helps prevent the chair from flying away if the conditions are windy. The 600-denier polyester ripstop fabric is double-layered for tenacity, too.
Just like the REI Camp X, we like that the mesh keeps it breathable in hot weather and allows it to dry very quickly. The four flat, sturdy, square-shaped feet stay well-planted on the ground, making the chair level and secure while standing up and sitting down.
While the chair is on the wider and larger side with a deeper seat, that cozier size is worth the extra seconds it takes to collapse and slide the chair into its included stuff sack. Closed-cell foam padding in the seat adds a bit of cushion, which we appreciate.
The seat, arms, and chairback are forgiving when you sit down, providing support without being too rigid or stiff. And the chair back is higher, so we can lean back completely.
We also love the two large pear-shaped cupholders on each arm, which boast enough room for a 32-ounce bottle (or a cellphone) plus additional space for small items like utensils.
On the right armrest, there’s a hanging stash pocket for items like a book or map — there’s one large full-width pocket, and then there are three small mesh pockets on the front of varying widths. For car camping and park hangouts or concerts, the Camp Xtra is among the best choices out there.
You know what takes campfire gazing to the next level? A relaxing, comfortable rocking chair. The Kickback Rocker ($65) delivers comfort and gentle rocking in a stable and easy-to-pack package. With a full lineup of camping chairs around the fire, this is among the first chairs to be sat in.
At nearly 11 pounds, it’s certainly not ultralight, but it’s not unmanageable either. We especially like how easy it is to set up. Simply fold it open, and you’re ready to relax.
And despite the rocker design, the chair isn’t difficult to get up and out of or to sit down in. The overall frame is a bit lower to the ground, so taller users might notice they need to lean back for the chair’s support.
Comfortable and sturdy, the steel frame is powder-coated for longevity in the elements, and the ripstop polyester material is fair for casual use. The cupholder and phone holder pockets keep essentials at hand. And the included carrying case makes it easy to haul this one slung over your shoulder.
The rocking leg design makes this chair best for more level, flat surfaces.
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Just $35 and it comes with a built-in cooler? Yep, this Coleman Camping Chair is a bargain hunter’s dream. And to top it off, we found it impressively comfortable.
At 24 inches wide, it provides a roomier seat than the smaller backpacking options we’ve reviewed. It also has a taller seat height and a more upright back, which makes getting in and out easier.
With a unique touch, the handy built-in cooler is insulated to keep your beverages or snacks chilled and can fit up to four 8-ounce cans.
A carry bag is included, but you wouldn’t want to haul this for long distances, and the steel frame can rust if left out in the rain. But for hanging in the backyard, sitting on the sidelines, or car camping, this portable chair it’s a solid option.
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If you’re worried about your camp chair blowing away, this robust ALPS Mountaineering chair is your go-to choice. The King Kong ($120) has a heavy, rigid frame. And with super sturdy, tough feet, this chair is unlikely to topple over.
There are two hanging pockets off of each armrest. The uppermost section on the backside of the chair back has a full-width hanging mesh pocket for miscellaneous stashes.
With an adjustable fit, the angles of the arms can be tinkered with via two buckles. A powder-coated steel frame and 600-denier polyester fabric make the chair stout against wear and tear.
When we sit in this chair, it’s one of the most supportive, stiff options out there, which is great if our back is achy or for folks who prefer an upright brace. The King Kong chair back is also relatively high, and we really appreciate that extra backing when we’re feeling tired — plus the seat is deep, reinforcing our hamstrings.
If you don’t mind hauling a heavier-set chair in and out of your rig or on a short walk to the park, this is an excellent option, especially for breezy weather. A shoulder bag with two backpack-style shoulder straps makes the trek easier, too.
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Get cozy with this Kelty Discovery Low Loveseat camp chair ($140). The steel frame is plenty strong (even for two people) and can easily handle 400 pounds. And the quilted fabric is pliable, which is nice for multiple folks sharing the same seat.
We like that the seat is slightly reclined for comfort, and our testers found the shorter height of the Low Loveseat allowed for a more relaxed lounge. But tall couples may prefer the standard loveseat, which is a few inches taller off the ground.
The armrest cupholders have a divider so you can fit both larger and smaller bottles. Although it certainly isn’t the lightest chair on the list, we were still impressed with how easily it packed up.
The carrying bag simply clips around the chair and has a comfortable carrying strap. You wouldn’t want to hike any distance with this, but for campfire nights or outdoor concerts, the Low Loveseat is a top pick.
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Albeit a firmer choice among camp chairs, the GOBI Heat Terrain Heated Camping Chair ($199) provides a boost of warmth for chillier nights or for those who feel sensitive to the cold. The lower back and seat both radiate heat, and the exact temperature is controlled by the user for a toastier outdoor experience.
Thanks to a portable, rechargeable 7.4V battery (which conveniently doubles as a charging port for a phone), you can bask in a warmer backside for up to 9 hours on the low setting at 113 degrees F.
For more warmth, you can ramp up the heat to 122 degrees F (with a 6-hour limit) or to the highest setting, which is our favorite on a cold night — 131 degrees F for up to 4.5 hours.
The steel frame is stable, and the polyester material is resistant to wind and a drizzle. The material isn’t very padded and feels rather rigid, but if staying warm is your priority, we recommend giving this heated camping chair a go.
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Make s’more time even more fun for your mini with this pint-sized REI Co-op Camp Chair ($40). Our little testers love that they can carry their own chair and easily climb in and out alone, and this design remains a top-seller for kiddos.
At 4 pounds, it’s light enough for even young children to drag into place. And with a seat height of 11 inches off the ground, it works well for a range of children. The kid testers in our group especially seemed to like it’s a miniature version of the adult chair.
It proved impressively sturdy and stable, even as a 3-year-old repeatedly climbed in and out. We found this best for kids under 9 years old, but that will depend on the height and weight of each kid.
Let’s get a few things out of the way first. If you despise everything YETI, this chair isn’t for you. If you’re looking for the cheapest chair, this isn’t it. But if you’re looking for an incredibly comfortable, durable, and stable chair, you’re in the right spot.
At 13 pounds, the top-rated YEI Trailhead ($300) falls in the middle ground of acceptable camp chair weights. The FlexGrid fabric is uniformly supportive and UV-resistant. It’s also pleasantly breathable on hot days.
It folds up easily and packs into a carry bag complete with backpack straps. The Lockdown feature on the back of the chair ensures it won’t accidentally fold up on you. And we like the wide, grippy feet.
In addition to camping, we’ve used this chair for many months as a daily office spot. It shows no signs of wear, and we’ve been comfortable throughout.
It may be overkill for a quick, casual campout, but if you want a super-comfortable, super-stable chair, this is it. When grilling out with Grandpa or offering Mom a spot to relax by the fire, this is the chair we reach for.
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If a hammock and a camp chair had a baby, it would be the Stargaze ($250). This suspended chair allows for rocking on any type of terrain, and the tall back provides full neck support.
Our Hunt + Fish Editor downright loves this chair. She raved in a review, “The aircraft-grade aluminum base is heavy-duty, built with a low center of gravity that provides stability on all types of ground. The chair is a monofilament mesh with fabric reinforcements. Built into the chair are a drink-holder and a pocket for phones and other knickknacks.”
Some of our testers noticed it takes longer to sit down and stand up out of this design. You need to put your hands on the arms (there’s even a sign on the chair instructing you to do so).
And if you go too quick, you can pinch your fingers — like if you’re trying to quickly hop out of your chair if flighty embers kick up out of the campfire, which happened to us. But in a calm setting where being nimble isn’t a priority, our crew all loved being able to lean back, look up at the sky, and simply rock.
We did find that the Stargaze chair takes a bit longer to set up than the other chairs listed. Some of our testers also found it a bit constricting through the shoulders.
And while this design is tailored to rocking, it’s not a good choice if you prefer to sit up straight. But if you’re looking for a unique chair and don’t mind making the investment, the Stargaze will serve you well.
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Anyone looking for a classic camp chair will be happy with the Camp X ($50) from REI. It’s a good pairing of comfort, value, durability, and extra features. And it does all of this without sacrificing too much in portability.
At a bit more than 7 pounds (its frame is made of heavy-duty, thick steel tubing), it’s not a good candidate for backpacking (check the other options for that). But for daily use, the design feels relatively light (but not so light it’ll fly away with a gust) and compact to pack up. This makes it a great choice for camping, concerts, soccer games, and backyard lounging.
We like that the mesh keeps it breathable in hot weather and allows it to dry very quickly. The four flat, sturdy, square-shaped feet stay well-planted on the ground, making the chair level and secure while standing up and sitting down. There’s also an included stuff sack with a shoulder strap.
We’ve read reviews of some durability concerns with the mesh and polyester construction, but have had absolutely no problem over 2 years of use. It doesn’t provide neck support, so it’s not the ultimate lounge chair.
And for folks who need more back support, you might want to invest in a design with a higher-reaching chair back (this one is 10.5 inches), because this one is shorter compared to other larger chairs we tested.
But for others who want a solid, hardworking, all-around camp chair, the Camp X is for you.
The original Chair Zero from Helinox revolutionized the backpacking chair world. Suddenly, bringing a chair on the trail seemed not only doable but rather reasonable.
It weighs just a pound and packs down to the size of a Nalgene bottle. And now, the Chair Zero High-Back ($170) offers an extended amount of back support — an additional 7.5 inches — with less than a pound difference.
It sacrifices a little stability in order to maximize portability but still manages to be very comfortable. The Chair Zero was more popular with our smaller testers, but it does accommodate people up to 265 pounds, and our 6-foot tester fit in it just fine.
When moving from side to side, the material is a bit loud. And if the weather is gusty, make sure you don’t leave this chair solo! It can easily take flight in a strong breeze.
If you need a chair that stays solidly planted while you get up or down, look at some of our other sturdier-footed choices here on our list. Or if you prefer a chair that’s easier to stretch your legs out while sitting in, check out the larger frames here.
But if you don’t have much storage space and want an easy-to-transport chair you can easily buckle to a backpack, the Helinox Zero High-Back is your premier choice.
Our taller testers and those with chronic shoulder or backaches welcomed the extra length of this chairback on the new Klymit Ridgeline Camp Chair ($90).
Simple, streamlined, and delivering a tall back that reaches toward the sky, the design also features a lightly padded headrest, so you can lean your head back and rest well-supported.
Built out of aluminum alloy, the frame is lighter than some of the steel options that are high-ranked, but aluminum can also be a tad less durable in the long haul depending on user care. The fabric is 900-denier polyester blended with mesh, so it’s tenacious and allows for a breeze on a warm day.
With aggressive nobs, the feet dig into the ground. But given they aren’t broad and flat, they aren’t as stable as some other designs among our top picks. Also, given the light weight, this chair can totally take off with a strong wind and no one anchoring it down — be aware.
Does your idea of a good camp chair include catching a few Zs? Then you’re going to love the Zero Gravity Lounger ($125). It’s the ultimate camp recliner and our favorite nap-inducing chair. We liked that you can simply lounge back and then lock your desired spot into place.
The mesh back is breathable, and it folds up easily. It doesn’t pack down particularly small or include a carrying case, but it’s easy enough to carry around the campsite or backyard.
The armrests are comfortable, and our testers like the adjustable head pillow. You can also completely remove the pillow if you don’t want to use it.
Our testers under 5’5″ found it more difficult to recline this chair and not as comfortable in an upright position. Our 6-foot-tall tester found it immensely comfortable and worthy of a fireside snooze.
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Do you want a camp chair with an added dash of style? The classic looks of the Kanpai Bamboo Chair ($145) may be just what you’re after. It folds up simply, and we like that the top and bottom rungs rotate slightly for a comfortable carry.
The cotton canvas duck fabric feels nice against the skin and has proven over more than a year’s use. It will take longer to dry than other mesh chairs if left in the rain.
The biggest point of contention is the seat height. At 19.5 inches, it’s a lower-type chair. We found the Kanpai Bamboo Chair very comfortable, but it could be more difficult to get out of for some. The lower height makes it extra sturdy, and even a rambunctious toddler can climb in and out easily.
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Here are the primary factors we use when testing camp chairs that will help you find the best camping chair.
How will you use the chair? Whether you enjoy car camping, backpacking, soccer game viewing, backyard barbecuing, or some mix of it all, it helps to have a clear idea of how you’ll use your camping chair. It will help you narrow down which of the other factors are most important.
This ties into the above consideration. Are you looking for a chair that works for backpacking? Do you plan to use it once a month, once a week, or every day?
These factors will affect price and can determine if it’s worth spending more for a chair that pairs comfort with packability (like the Helinox Zero High-Back). Or perhaps a budget pick like Coleman will suit your needs well without emptying the wallet.
Nobody wants an uncomfortable camping chair. When considering comfort, we looked at seatback height, width, height off the ground, materials, amount of cushion, rigidity versus flexibility, overall shape, and ergonomics. Comfort varies from person to person and depends a lot on your size, build, and mobility.
This is paramount if you’re backpacking, semi-important when packing the rig for car camping, and not very important when setting up in the backyard.
No one wants to spend 20 minutes fighting to set up their camp chair — or worse, trying to wrangle it back into its carrying bag. We want to be able to set up and take down the chair without instructions or excessive time dedicated to the task.
All of the chairs included here are easy to set up. Some simply fold open, whereas others take a couple of minutes to assemble. The NEMO Stargaze is one that takes a bit more time to set up. But we were able to do it without reading the directions, and the tradeoff for the fun, rocking chair feature is worth it.
The height from the ground to the bottom of the seat is an often overlooked yet extremely important consideration. This dictates not only how bent your legs will be but also makes a chair easier or more difficult to get out of.
In general, those with knee issues or mobility concerns will have an easier time getting out of taller chairs. Consider something like the Coleman Quad Chair or the YETI Trailhead.
Sitting around the campfire should be a relaxing time. And that means not having to worry about falling out of your chair (especially if you’re enjoying a few campfire cocktails) or the chair toppling over when you move to get out of it. A wider leg base provides extra stability but often comes at the cost of weight and pack size.
Drink-holders, pockets, carrying bags, armrest coolers, user-adjusted heat settings, and more — these extra features may seem inconsequential, but they can really take a camp chair from OK to awesome.
Whether you choose the tiniest camp chair, the biggest camp chair, the cheapest camping chair, or something in between, don’t forget what it’s really all about: getting outside. Throw a fresh log on the fire, pull up a chair, and enjoy an evening under the stars.
The GearJunkie team has tested a huge variety of camping chairs for countless hours at campsites, while road tripping with camper trailers, during long hunts, and at the base of peaks or trailheads after a backcountry ski day.
We polled our crew to determine their absolute favorite camp chairs and why, and we gather every year for a group campout to test a new collection of camping chairs side by side.
We’ve used these camp chairs while crewing ultramarathons and enjoying slam poetry and concerts at the park. We’ve also used these camp chairs at home for outdoor birthday parties and sitting around portable fire pits.
Some of our editors have used their choice camp chair across every season for many years with no sign of deterioration or a desire to switch. Beyond our team’s experience, we also considered the most popular, most durable, and bestselling camp chairs on the market as well as a broad range of price points and features.
The most comfortable camping chair varies from person to person and depends largely on your body type and height.
The REI Camp Xtra Chair is among the most comfortable — it’s malleable yet supportive but not too rigid. Our testers also gave the YETI Trailhead extremely high marks for comfort and stability, although that does come with a price tradeoff. And if you want to lay back and take a nap, the GCI Zero Gravity chair is a winner.
First, think about how you’re going to use the chair. If you plan on backpacking or hiking into camp, then a small, lightweight chair will serve you best. If you’re car camping or hanging in the backyard, go for maximum comfort and features.
You may also want to consider your mobility and height. Lower chairs can be more challenging to get in and out of if you have knee issues or any other mobility concerns. Taller people also tend to prefer a chair with a bit more height to it.
Last, think about the features you would enjoy. Is a cupholder important? Or maybe you really want a rocking camp chair? Whatever it is, chances are you can find a camp chair that perfectly suits your outdoor-loving needs.
Yes. All the camping chairs on this list can get wet. Some will dry more quickly than others, but none of them will be damaged by a little rain.
The weight and packed size relate to how portable a chair is. For car camping, this mainly matters for fitting everything in your vehicle and carrying it short distances. The packed-down size can also be important for those with limited storage space.
If you’re spending a lot of time at the ball field, you may want a camp chair you can carry hands-free. Many of our top choices for camp chairs come with an included carry case for convenience. Most of those bags have a single strap to sling over your shoulder, but the ALPS Mountaineering King Kong carry-case has two backpack straps for even more aid.
If you plan to backpack or hike a longer distance with your chair, the weight and packed size are very important.
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