The Best Camping Chairs of 2022

Whether you’re car camping, backyard grilling, enjoying festival music, or hiking to your favorite lakeside campsite, we’ve narrowed down the best camping chairs for every use and budget.

There’s no better way to end a day outside than being gathered around the campfire. 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 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 somewhere with a view, our testers have spent countless hours setting up, taking down, and, well, sitting.

While testing and ranking camping chairs, we focused primarily on comfort, value, and portability (such as size and weight). Secondary considerations included 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 should help you identify the best chair for your needs. 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:

• Best Overall Camping Chair
• Best Rocking Camping Chair
• Best Budget Camping Chair
• Most Stable Camping Chair
• Best Campsite “Couch”
• Best Heated Camping Chair
• Best Camping Chair for Kids

The Best Camping Chairs of 2022

Best Overall Camping Chair: REI Co-op Camp Xtra Chair

For ultimate all-around comfort, spaciousness, and stability, we reach for the Camp Xtra ($70) from REI almost every time. Around the campfire, this is the first chair that gets filled. The price is moderate, the features are plentiful, and the weight is easily manageable for a variety of arrangements, 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, which is 8 by 38 inches when folded down. Closed-cell foam padding in the seat adds a bit of cushion, which we appreciate.

The seat, arms, and 17.5-inch high chairback are forgiving when you sit down, providing support without being too rigid or stiff. And the chair’s back is higher, so you can lean back completely without the fear of ending up on your back.

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: one large full-width pocket, and 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 camping chairs available.

Specs:

• Weight: 10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 34.25″ x 24.75″ x 24.5″
• Cupholders: Two mesh pear-shaped cupholders on the armrests (fits 32-ounce bottle plus extra room for items like utensils)
• Pockets: Hanging pocket with one full-width pocket for a book and three smaller pockets of varying widths
• Weight capacity: 400 lbs.

Pros:

• Stable yet forgiving design
• Higher chair offers support
• Fairly durable construction

Cons:

• Cozier size means the chair isn’t the most compact on our list

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Best Rocking Chair: GCI Outdoor Kickback Rocker Chair

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 when slung over your shoulder.

The rocking leg design makes this chair best for more level, flat surfaces.

Specs:

• Weight: 10 lbs., 9.6 oz.
• Dimensions: 32.5″ x 31.7″ x 27.2″
• Cupholders: One tall mesh pocket on right arm
• Pockets: One tall hanging pocket on left armrest with enough room for a phone
• Weight capacity: 250 lbs.

Pros:

• Comfortable
• Rocker
• Easy fold-up

Cons:

• Large size
• Less portability

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Best Budget Camping Chair: Coleman Portable Quad Chair With Cooler

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.

Adding 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.

Specs:

• Weight: 9 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions: 24″ x 37″ x 40.5″
• Cupholders: One mesh cupholder
• Pockets: One hanging side pocket with two mesh compartments
• Weight capacity: 325 lbs.

Pros:

• Cheap
• Built-in cooler

Cons:

• Less portability
• Long-term durability

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Most Stable Camping Chair: ALPS Mountaineering King Kong

If you’re worried about your camp chair blowing away, this robust ALPS Mountaineering chair is your go-to choice. The King Kong ($120 — now on sale for $75!) 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, and 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 your 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. While a bit pricey, it’s one of the best camping chairs you can buy.

Specs:

• Weight: 13 lbs.
• Dimensions: 38″ x 20″ x 38″
• Cupholders: Two mesh cupholders
• Pockets: Two hanging side pockets
• Weight capacity: 800 lbs.

Pros:

• Extremely sturdy
• Backpack-style carry case included

Cons:

• Heavier-set

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Best Campsite “Couch”: Kelty Discovery Low Loveseat

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.

Those with a few members of the family or dogs might want to check out the even lengthier Lowdown Couch — our new favorite in 2022.

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.

Specs:

• Weight: 15 lbs. 6 oz.
• Dimensions: 44″ x 23.5″ x 31.5″
• Cupholders: Two insulated cupholders
• Pockets: None
• Weight capacity: 400 lbs.

Pros:

• Campfire snuggling
• Adjustable cupholders

Cons:

• Heavy
• Bulky

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Best Heated Chair: GOBI Heat Terrain Heated Camping Chair

While it’s a firmer choice among camp chairs, the GOBI Heat Terrain Heated Camping Chair ($199) provides a nice 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 light rain. 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 try.

Specs:

• Weight: 11 lbs.
• Dimensions: 25″ x 39″ x 17″
• Cupholders: One built-in cupholder
• Pockets: None
• Weight capacity: 325 lbs.

Pros:

• Chair provides battery-powered warmth

Cons:

• Too rigid for some
• An investment

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Best Camping Chair for Kids: REI Co-op Kids’ Camp Chair

Make s’more time even more fun for your kids 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 of it without help. 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 having a miniature version of the adult chairs around the fire.

It proved impressively sturdy and stable as well, even as a 3-year-old repeatedly climbed in and out. We found that it was best for kids under 9 years old, but that will depend on the height and weight of each kid. Overall, we’re confident it’s the best camping chair for kids.

Specs:

• Weight: 4 lbs.
• Dimensions: 24.5″ x 26.5″ x 16.25″
• Cupholders: Single pocket serves as a cupholder or as a pocket for small trinkets in the right armrest
• Pockets: No additional pockets
• Weight capacity: 125 lbs.

Pros:

• Light, portable mini version of the adult chair

Cons:

• Best for kids 9 and under

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Best of the Rest

YETI Trailhead Camping Chair

Let’s get a few things out of the way first. If you despise everything YETI, this chair isn’t for you. And 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 weight. 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. It’s one of the best camping chairs money can buy.

Specs:

• Weight: 13 lbs.
• Dimensions: 29.9″ x 36.3″ x 25.1″
• Cupholders: One below the right armrest
• Pockets: None
• Weight capacity: 500 lbs.

Pros:

• Durable
• Comfortable
• Super stable

Cons:

• Heavy
• Expensive

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NEMO Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair

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.

Specs:

• Weight: 6 lbs. 5 oz.
• Dimensions: 45″ x 36″ x 25″
• Cupholders: One on the left armrest
• Pockets: One zippered pocket on the right side
• Weight capacity: 300 lbs.

Pros:

• Fun
• Hammock-chair hybrid

Cons:

• Expensive
• Takes longer to get in and out

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REI Co-op Camp X Chair

Anyone looking for a classic camp chair will be happy with the Camp X ($50) from REI, which is a more compact version of our other top pick, the REI Camp Xtra Chair. 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 (packs up at 7  by 33 inches). This makes it a great choice for car 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, and the seat height reaches 10.5 inches (compared to the Xtra Chair, which has a 17.5-inch high seatback) so it’s not the ultimate or largest lounge chair.

For others who want a simple, hardworking, all-around camp chair, the Camp X is a smart choice.

Specs:

• Weight: 7 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions: 31″ x 31.25″ x 20″
• Cupholders: Mesh pear-shaped cupholder on the right armrest (fits 32-ounce bottle plus extra room for a set of keys or pens)
• Pockets: Drop-down pocket with cinch closure on the left armrest
• Weight capacity: 300 lbs.

Pros:

• Breathable
• Quick-drying
• Good value

Cons:

• Shorter-length backrest

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Helinox Chair Zero High-Back

The original Chair Zero from Helinox revolutionized the backpacking chair world. Suddenly, bringing a chair on the trail — whether backpacking a short distance or hiking up high for a sunset picnic — 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 the heavier, sturdier-footed choices 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 listed.

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 probably the best camping chair for the job.

Specs:

• Weight: 1 lb., 8 oz.
• Dimensions: 32.5″ x 19.5″ x 21.5″
• Cupholders: None
• Pockets: None
• Weight capacity: 265 lbs.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Portable
• Taller chair back compared to OG design

Cons:

• Not super stable
• Narrower seat

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Klymit Ridgeline Camp Chair

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.

Specs:

• Weight: 2 lbs., 12.8 oz.
• Dimensions: 28″ x 21″ x 39″
• Cupholders: None
• Pockets: One small mesh pocket hangs off the left side
• Weight capacity: 265 lbs.

Pros:

• Tall chair back
• Mesh panels provide aeration

Cons:

• Not the sturdiest feet
• Narrower pod shape might not be preferred by those with broad shoulders or hips

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GCI Outdoor Freeform Zero Gravity Lounger

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 in 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.

Specs:

• Weight: 20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 43.1″ x 35″ x 30.3″
• Cupholders: None
• Pockets: One hanging mesh pocket
• Weight capacity: 300 lbs.

Pros:

• Recliner
• Nap-worthy
• Breathable

Cons:

• Heavy
• Doesn’t pack small

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TRAVELCHAIR Kanpai Bamboo Chair

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 durable over more than a year’s use. However, 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.

Specs:

• Weight: 7 lbs., 5.6 oz.
• Dimensions: 25.5″ x 21.5″ x 19.5″
• Cupholders: None
• Pockets: None
• Weight capacity: 250 lbs.

Pros:

• Stylish
• Comfortable
• Durable

Cons:

• Short ground height can be hard to get out of

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Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Camping Chair

Here are the primary factors we use when testing camp chairs. Scroll through to help ensure that you pick the best camping chair for your individual needs.

Type of Use

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.

Value

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 the price and can help you 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 better without emptying the wallet.

Comfort

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.

Weight and Packed Dimensions

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.

Ease of Setup

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.

Height

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. If you fall into that category, consider something like the Coleman Quad Chair or the YETI Trailhead.

Stability

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.

Features

Drink-holders, pockets, carrying bags, armrest coolers, user-adjusted heat settings, and more — these extra features may seem inconsequential, but they can help 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.

Why You Should Trust Us

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. We gather every year for a group campout to test a new collection of camping chairs side by side, and we use these camp chairs throughout the year, from season to season and sport to sport.

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 for a range of users.

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