Coleman Camping Coffeemaker Review

Must-Have Accessories:

• Coleman Enamelware Mugs: Perfect camp coffee deserves proper mugs
• Burr Grinder: Fresh grounds make all the difference
• Insulated Carafe: Keeps coffee hot for seconds

During my latest camping trip to Yosemite, the Coleman Camping Coffee Maker proved itself yet again as a reliable companion for brewing great coffee in the wilderness. Let me break down what makes this coffee maker tick:

Key Specs:

• Capacity: Brews 10 cups
• Brew Time: 18 minutes for a full pot
• Heat Source: Works with camping stoves
• Size: 14.5” x 8.5” x 9.25”
• Weight: 2.9 lbs
• Filter Type: Standard basket filters

The build quality reminds me of the classic drip makers from the ’90s - virtually indestructible. The sturdy plastic and metal construction has survived everything from accidental drops to unexpected rain showers. What’s impressive is how Coleman managed to incorporate familiar features like pause-and-serve without compromising durability.

One morning at camp, I noticed how the stainless steel base distributed heat evenly across my camping stove, resulting in consistently good coffee. The filter basket sits securely, and the lid locks firmly - essential when you’re brewing on uneven surfaces.

Available in the classic black/silver combo, this coffee maker isn’t trying to win beauty contests. It’s focused on function, and that’s exactly what you want when brewing coffee outdoors.

Having used this coffee maker on countless camping trips, I’ve got the brewing process down to a science. Here’s the real-world rundown:

1. Setup: Find a level spot for your camp stove - I learned the hard way that even a slight tilt affects the brewing. Place the coffee maker securely over the heat source.

2. Water: Pour fresh water into the reservoir. I’ve found mountain spring water makes notably better coffee than treated campground water.

3. Filter & Grounds: Drop in a standard basket filter and add your grounds. One trick I’ve discovered: use slightly coarser grounds than you would at home - it helps prevent bitter coffee at altitude.

4. Heat Application: Start with medium heat. Once you hear the first gurgle, maintain that temperature. Too hot, and you’ll get bitter coffee; too cool, and it’ll take forever.

5. Brewing Magic: Watch the clear top bubble as hot water circulates through the grounds. It’s surprisingly therapeutic with your morning campsite view.

6. The Wait: Those 18 minutes can feel long when you’re craving coffee, but I’ve found it’s perfect timing for cooking breakfast.

The coffee maker mirrors your home drip machine’s process, just without electricity. That familiar drip brewing method means consistently good coffee, which is exactly what you want when roughing it.

After three years of regular use at campsites across different seasons, here’s my honest assessment of where this coffee maker shines and where it falls short:

Wins:

• Group-Friendly: That 10-cup capacity is a lifesaver when camping with friends. Last summer, our group of six never ran out of coffee during a week-long trip.
• Built Tough: I’ve accidentally dropped mine twice on rocky ground - not a scratch. The rugged build holds up to real camping abuse.
• Heat Flexible: Works with any heat source. I’ve used everything from my MSR stove to a friend’s fancy dual-fuel camp stove.
• Familiar Process: If you can use a home coffee maker, you can use this. No special technique needed.
• Zero Power Needed: Perfect for true off-grid camping. Saved our morning coffee during an unexpected power outage at home too.
• Reliable Results: Delivers consistently good coffee, cup after cup.

Room for Improvement:

• Brew Time: Those 18 minutes feel long on cold mornings. My solution? Start it before making breakfast.
• Size Matters: Takes up considerable pack space. Not ideal for backpacking or small car trunks.
• Manual Process: Unlike propane models, you need your own heat source and more hands-on attention.
• No Warming Plate: Coffee cools faster outdoors. I transfer mine to a thermos right after brewing.

Real User Experiences: During a rainy weekend at Mount Rainier, our group nicknamed this the “Morale Maker” - it kept pumping out hot coffee despite the dreary weather. The pause-and-serve feature has saved many impatient campers from waiting for a full brew.

Some users report minor drips from the pause-and-serve valve, but I’ve found this happens mainly when the filter basket is overfilled. A quick wipe keeps things clean.

Let me share what I’ve learned about traveling with this coffee maker after numerous camping trips:

Size and Transport: The 14.5” x 8.5” x 9.25” dimensions mean it takes up about the same space as a small cooler. In my SUV, it fits perfectly in a milk crate with other cooking gear. At 2.9 lbs, it’s hefty enough to feel substantial but not so heavy it’s a burden for car camping.

Durability on the Road: I wrap mine in a kitchen towel during transport - it provides padding and doubles as a cleanup rag at camp. The solid construction has survived multiple cross-country road trips. Even the plastic components have held up remarkably well to temperature changes and rough handling.

Travel Considerations:

• Packs easier than glass coffee makers but doesn’t nest well with other gear
• Rigid design means no collapsible parts to save space
• Handles bumpy forest roads without damage
• Performs reliably at different altitudes (tested up to 8,000 feet)

Practical Experience: During a two-week national park tour, this coffee maker lived in and out of the car daily. Despite the constant movement and temperature swings, it never failed to deliver morning coffee. However, on a cramped car camping trip with four people’s gear, its size became noticeable.

Based on extensive camping experience, this coffee maker is perfect for:

Ideal Users:

• Car Campers: If your campsite’s within walking distance of your vehicle, this is perfect. Last month, it was the hit of our group site at Joshua Tree.
• RV Enthusiasts: Fits perfectly in RV kitchens and works well with camp stoves.
• Base Camp Crews: Great for extended stays where coffee is essential. During a week-long climbing trip, it kept our whole group caffeinated.
• Family Campers: The 10-cup capacity means everyone gets their morning coffee without multiple brews.
• Comfort Campers: If you prefer your outdoor experience with some home comforts, this bridges that gap nicely.
• Group Trip Leaders: Perfect for outdoor workshops or guided trips where you need to keep multiple people happy.

Perfect Scenarios:

• Weekend campground stays with easy vehicle access
• Multi-day festivals or events where power isn’t available
• Outdoor family reunions
• Extended hunting or fishing trips
• Emergency preparedness kits

At a recent family camping weekend, this coffee maker turned our campsite into the morning gathering spot. That’s when it really shines - creating those communal moments over fresh coffee in the outdoors.

From my camping experience, these folks should look elsewhere:

Not Ideal For:

• Ultralight Backpackers: At 2.9 lbs, it’s way too heavy for the trail. My backpacking buddy laughed when I suggested bringing it on a through-hike.
• Solo Travelers: The 10-cup capacity is overkill unless you drink coffee all day.
• Speed Demons: That 18-minute brew time can feel eternal if you need quick caffeine.
• Espresso Lovers: If you’re craving rich espresso, this won’t satisfy. My coffee snob friend brings his Wacaco Nanopresso instead.
• Minimalist Campers: The size and complexity don’t match a stripped-down camping style.

Better Alternatives: For lightweight options, check out the AeroPress - it’s my go-to for backpacking. Need something quicker? The Stanley Pour Over brews in minutes.

During a recent backpacking trip, I left this at home and brought a simple pour-over cone instead. Sometimes less really is more, especially when you’re carrying everything on your back.

I’ve had my Coleman Camping Coffee Maker for over three years now, and it’s been on countless trips. Here’s what I’ve learned about its longevity:

Durability Highlights:

• The plastic housing shows minor scuffs but no cracks or structural damage
• Filter basket still fits snugly after hundreds of uses
• Lid seal remains tight, though it needed cleaning after about two years
• Heat distribution plate shows no warping despite regular use

Real-World Performance: Last summer, during a month-long road trip through national parks, this coffee maker served us faithfully every morning. Even in dusty desert conditions and humid coastal mornings, it maintained consistent brewing quality.

Age-Related Changes:

• The pause-and-serve valve needed a thorough cleaning after about 18 months
• Some staining on the filter basket, but it doesn’t affect coffee taste
• The lid hinge loosened slightly but still functions well

One morning at Yellowstone, our campsite neighbor commented on how ancient their Coleman looked - turns out it was a 12-year-old model still brewing great coffee. That’s the kind of longevity you can expect with proper care.

After forgetting to clean my coffee maker once and suffering through stale-tasting coffee the next morning, I developed this care routine:

Daily Camping Care:

1. Quick Clean: Dump grounds, rinse thoroughly with hot water
2. Wipe Down: Clean exterior with a damp cloth
3. Air Dry: Let all parts dry completely before storing
4. Filter Basket Check: Remove any stuck grounds from corners

Deep Clean Process (Monthly or post-trip):

1. Run a vinegar solution (1:1 water and white vinegar)
2. Follow with two clean water cycles
3. Scrub filter basket with soft brush
4. Check and clean pause-and-serve valve
5. Inspect lid seal for buildup

Storage Tips:

• Store in a dry place (learned this after finding mold in a poorly dried maker)
• Avoid stacking heavy items on top
• Keep in a breathable bag to prevent musty smells

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Slow brewing? Descale with vinegar solution
• Weak coffee? Clean the water distribution holes
• Leaking? Check the pause-and-serve valve for debris

Last week, I noticed slightly bitter coffee - a quick vinegar cycle fixed it right up. These machines are pretty forgiving if you stay on top of basic maintenance.

Having used this coffee maker extensively in nature, its environmental impact deserves careful consideration:

Positive Aspects:

• Eliminates single-use coffee pods
• Durable design means less frequent replacement
• No electricity required, reducing carbon footprint
• Promotes reusable mug use at campsites

Areas of Concern:

• Plastic construction, though built to last
• Paper filter waste unless using reusable alternatives
• No clear recycling path at end of life
• Manufacturing impact unclear

Reducing Impact: During a recent camping trip, I switched to a reusable metal filter, cutting my waste significantly. I also keep a repair kit handy to extend the coffee maker’s life rather than replacing it.

Smart Usage Tips:

• Opt for unbleached filters if using disposables
• Choose shade-grown coffee to support sustainable farming
• Conserve water during cleaning
• Consider a bamboo stirrer instead of plastic

While not perfect, this coffee maker’s long lifespan and ability to reduce single-serve waste make it a relatively eco-conscious choice for camp coffee.

After comparing this with other camping coffee solutions over several seasons, here’s my value assessment:

Value Highlights:

• Built to last through years of camping trips
• Serves large groups efficiently
• Produces consistently good coffee
• Works with any heat source

Long-Term Value: My unit has survived three years of regular use, averaging out to pennies per cup. Compare that to camp store coffee prices or replacing cheaper makers annually.

Cost Context:

• More affordable than high-end portable espresso makers
• Pricier than basic pour-over systems
• Similar cost to mid-range home coffee makers
• Excellent value for group camping

During last summer’s two-week camping trip, this maker saved our group roughly $200 compared to buying camp store coffee. That’s the kind of practical value that justifies the investment.

Ongoing Costs:

• Basic paper filters
• Regular cleaning supplies
• Occasional descaling solution

The Coleman strikes a sweet spot between durability and cost, especially for regular campers who appreciate good coffee.

After countless camping trips, I’ve discovered some game-changing tricks:

1. Perfect Preheat:

• Heat your carafe with hot water while setting up
• Keeps coffee hot 30 minutes longer
• Works great on chilly mornings

2. Grind Strategy:

• Slightly coarser than normal drip grind
• Prevents bitter overflow issues
• Especially important above 5,000 feet

3. Wind Shield Hack:

• Create a windbreak with aluminum foil
• Reduces brew time by 3-4 minutes
• Saves fuel on blustery days

4. Temperature Control:

• Start with medium-high heat
• Reduce to medium when perking starts
• Watch for steady, not violent, bubbling

5. Storage Solutions:

• Store filters inside the maker
• Pack grounds in the carafe
• Saves valuable camp kitchen space

6. Multi-Purpose Magic:

• Use it to heat water for dishes
• Make hot chocolate for kids
• Perfect for instant oatmeal prep

7. Cold Brew Twist:

• Set up before bed with cold water
• Let steep overnight
• Enjoy cold brew in the morning

These tricks came from real camping situations - like the time a mountain wind kept blowing out our stove until we rigged up that foil windscreen.

After fielding questions from curious campers at countless sites, here are the most common queries:

Q: Can I use it directly on a campfire? A: While possible, I don’t recommend it. The uneven heat can damage the base. Stick to camping stoves for consistent results and longer life.

Q: What kind of filters work best? A: Standard 8-12 cup basket filters work perfectly. I’ve found unbleached ones add less paper taste. Metal filters work too, but expect some fine grounds in your cup.

Q: Why does brewing take so long sometimes? A: Altitude and wind are usually the culprits. Above 5,000 feet, expect an extra 3-4 minutes. Using a windscreen helps maintain steady brewing times.

Q: Can I make less than 10 cups? A: Absolutely. Just adjust your water and grounds accordingly. I’ve made as little as 4 cups successfully.

Q: How do I clean it while camping? A: A quick rinse and wipe-down work for daily use. Bring a small brush for stubborn grounds. Deep clean once you’re home.

Q: Will it work with my small camping stove? A: Yes, but ensure your stove can support the weight when full. I use a stove with at least a 4-inch burner diameter for best results.

Q: Does high altitude affect the coffee taste? A: Yes - water boils at a lower temperature. Use slightly more grounds and coarser grinds above 5,000 feet for better results.

Q: Can I store coffee in it between uses? A: The carafe works great for storing pre-ground coffee or filters. Just make sure everything’s completely dry first.

Q: How long does coffee stay hot? A: Without a heating element, expect about 30-45 minutes of hot coffee. Transfer to a thermos for longer heat retention.

Q: What’s the best way to pack it? A: I nest mine in a small duffel with dish towels. The cavity holds filters and a bag of ground coffee perfectly.

After three years and countless camping trips with the Coleman Camping Coffee Maker, I’m still impressed by its reliable performance and durability. While testing it from sea-level beaches to high-altitude mountain camps, it’s proven itself as a trustworthy companion for outdoor coffee lovers.

Key Strengths: The 10-cup capacity has saved countless mornings when camping with friends. That familiar drip coffee taste brings a touch of home comfort to the wilderness. Its sturdy construction has survived everything from dusty desert winds to Pacific Northwest rain.

Real-World Performance: During a recent week-long trip to Yosemite, our campsite became the morning gathering spot thanks to this coffee maker. Despite the high altitude and chilly mornings, it consistently produced great coffee that kept our whole group going.

Practical Considerations: Yes, it’s bulky for ultralight adventures, and the 18-minute brew time requires patience. But for car camping and RV life, these trade-offs feel minimal compared to the benefit of reliable, good coffee outdoors.

The Coleman Camping Coffee Maker hits that sweet spot between camping simplicity and coffee comfort. It’s not trying to be the fanciest or the most portable - it’s focused on doing one thing well: brewing good coffee for groups in the great outdoors.