Why Drinks Matter Around the Campfire
A good campfire meal deserves a great drink to go with it. Whether you're cooking over coals or open flame, the right cocktail or mocktail can take the experience from satisfying to unforgettable. And the best part? You don’t need a fancy bar setup—just a few ingredients, a shaker or jar, and some creative flavor combos.
Campfire Cocktails to Sip and Savor
1. Smoky Maple Old Fashioned
Pairs with: Grilled steak, campfire potatoes
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2 oz bourbon
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1/2 tsp maple syrup
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2 dashes orange bitters
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Charred orange peel
Add bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters to a mixing jar with ice. Stir and strain into a glass or metal mug. Express the oils from a charred orange peel over the top, then drop it in.
2. Forest Mule
Pairs with: Bannock, fire-roasted vegetables
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2 oz vodka
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1 oz fresh lime juice
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Ginger beer
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Fresh rosemary sprig
Fill a tin cup or mason jar with ice, add vodka and lime, then top with ginger beer. Slap the rosemary sprig to release aroma and tuck it into the drink.
3. Spiced Apple Campfire Cider
Pairs with: Cast iron desserts, like apple crumble or chocolate chip bannock
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1.5 oz dark rum
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4 oz warm apple cider
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Dash of cinnamon
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Apple slice for garnish
Heat the cider over the fire until warm, stir in rum and cinnamon, and serve in a heat-safe mug. Garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick.
Mocktails for Everyone Around the Fire
1. Berry Bush Fizz
Pairs with: Grilled chicken, flame-seared veggies
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Handful of blackberries
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1/2 oz honey
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1/2 oz lemon juice
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Sparkling water
Muddle berries with honey and lemon. Shake with ice in a jar, strain, and top with sparkling water. Garnish with a sprig of mint.
2. Citrus Sage Cooler
Pairs with: Charred corn, smoky beans
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2 oz fresh orange juice
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1 oz lemon juice
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Sage leaf
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Sparkling water
Muddle the sage with a bit of orange juice, then combine all ingredients and serve over ice. Refreshing and aromatic.
3. Chili Lime Pineapple Sipper
Pairs with: Grilled shrimp, fire tacos
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4 oz pineapple juice
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Squeeze of lime
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Pinch of chili salt
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Ice
Rim your cup with chili salt if you're feeling fancy. Mix juice, lime, and ice. It's bright, sweet, and has just a hint of fire.
Tips for Campfire Mixology
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Use heat-safe mugs for warm drinks and lightweight mason jars or tin cups for cold ones.
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Prep ahead by juicing citrus or batching mixers at home.
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Foraged garnishes like rosemary, sage, or mint add a wild touch.
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Keep it simple—you don’t need complicated syrups or tools to make it memorable.
Final Thoughts
Campfire meals already feed the soul, but a great drink beside the flame makes the moment linger just a little longer. Whether you’re toasting with bourbon or berries, these easy drinks will keep spirits high and conversation flowing under the stars.
