Ever found yourself sweltering by the campfire, wishing you had something cold and refreshing that didn’t come from a basic cooler? You’re not alone. According to a 2024 outdoor recreation report, over 57 million Americans went camping in 2023, and staying hydrated with enjoyable drinks remains a top priority for campers battling summer heat.

The right camping drinks can transform your outdoor experience from sweaty and uncomfortable to refreshingly memorable. Whether you’re a fan of camping cocktails or prefer alcohol-free options, having a solid drink menu makes those hot afternoons and warm evenings around the fire infinitely better. We’ve rounded up 15 easy-to-make drinks for camping that require minimal equipment, pack light, and deliver maximum refreshment when you need it most.

To build this list, we analyzed dozens of camping blogs, combed through outdoor forums like r/CampingandHiking, and studied what experienced campers actually make and drink on their trips. We focused on recipes that work without fancy bar tools, use ingredients that travel well, and genuinely help you beat the heat.

15 Refreshing Camping Drinks to Beat the Heat

1. Classic Camping Lemonade

Nothing beats fresh lemonade when you’re dealing with summer heat at the campsite. This camping drink staple is incredibly simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time or mixed right at camp. All you need is fresh lemons, sugar, and water. The beauty of Camp Lemonade is its versatility. You can muddle fresh berries at the bottom of your cup for added flavor, or mix in some mint leaves for a cooling effect.

Many campers prefer making a concentrated lemon syrup at home, then diluting it with water at the campsite to save cooler space. This camping cocktail recipe also serves as the perfect base for spiked versions if adults want to add vodka or rum. Kids love it as is, making it a true crowd-pleaser for family camping trips.

For extra convenience, bring along reusable water bottles filled with the lemon concentrate. When you’re ready to drink, just add cold water from your cooler and stir. It’s one of those drinks for camping that never goes out of style and always hits the spot after a long hike.

2. Tequila Paloma

The Paloma ranks among the best camping cocktails for good reason. It’s ridiculously easy to make and requires just three ingredients: tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime. Unlike margaritas that need multiple mixers and fresh ingredients, this camp cocktail can be thrown together in seconds with ingredients that don’t take up much cooler space.

Rim your cup with salt for that authentic touch, or skip it if you’re keeping things simple. The grapefruit soda does most of the heavy lifting flavor-wise, which is why experienced campers love this drink. Jarritos and other Mexican sodas work perfectly and come in cans that pack easily.

This camping drink shines on hot afternoons when you want something light and citrusy without the fuss. Pour tequila over ice, add grapefruit soda, and squeeze in fresh lime, and you’re done. It’s refreshing, not too sweet, and the perfect reward after setting up camp or completing a tough trail.

3. Moscow Mule (or Mocktail Version)

The Moscow Mule translates beautifully to camping because it doesn’t require a cocktail shaker or complicated prep. Traditional versions use vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice served over ice. The ginger beer’s spicy kick, combined with tart lime, creates a seriously refreshing camping cocktail that cools you down fast.

What makes this one of the best camp cocktails is how easily it converts to a mocktail. Simply skip the vodka and you’ve got a zingy, non-alcoholic camping drink that everyone can enjoy. Ginger beer and lime juice taste fantastic together, even without spirits, making it perfect for day drinking when you want to stay sharp for activities.

Copper mugs are traditional but totally optional for camping. Any cup works fine, though metal cups do help keep drinks colder longer. Pack small bottles of ginger beer instead of large ones for easier packing, and bring a few extra limes. This camping drink recipe has become a campfire favorite for good reason.

4. Bourbon Maple Smash

For cooler evenings around the fire, this warm camping cocktail hits differently. Mix bourbon with maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of cinnamon for a drink that feels like a cozy hug. It only takes four ingredients and about five minutes to make, even over a campfire.

The maple syrup adds natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with bourbon’s oaky notes. Heat everything together in a small pot, or mix cold for a refreshing iced version during the day. This versatility makes it one of those camping cocktail recipes that works year-round.

Campers who love whiskey-based drinks appreciate how well this travels. Bourbon bottles are sturdy, maple syrup is shelf-stable, and lemons last several days in a cooler. It’s sophisticated enough for special camping trips but simple enough for everyday adventures. The warming spices make it especially popular during fall camping when nights get chilly.

5. Vodka Cranberry (Cape Codder)

Sometimes the best camping drinks are the simplest ones. The Cape Codder requires just vodka, cranberry juice, and a splash of orange juice. It’s easy to batch in advance, travels well, and satisfies crowds without requiring a mixology degree.

This camping cocktail works great for group trips because you can mix up a large pitcher before leaving home. Store it in a sealed container, keep it cold, and pour over ice when ready. The cranberry juice’s tartness balances perfectly with vodka’s clean finish, while orange juice adds a subtle sweetness.

What campers really love about this drink is its packability. Cranberry and orange juice come in small bottles or boxes that fit easily in coolers. You can even use juice boxes for ultimate convenience. It’s one of those camp cocktails that requires zero thought after a long day of hiking.

Suggested Reads- 20 Best Vegetarian Camping Meals to Cook Over a Campfire

6. Ranch Water

Ranch Water has exploded in popularity and for good reason. It’s essentially a lighter, less sweet, more refreshing version of a margarita. You only need three things: tequila, lime juice, and seltzer or sparkling water. That’s it. No triple sec, no fancy mixers, just clean flavors that quench thirst fast.

This camping drink originated in West Texas, where ranchers needed something refreshing that wouldn’t weigh them down during hot days. The high ratio of seltzer to tequila makes it incredibly hydrating compared to other camping cocktails, which is crucial when you’re spending long days in the sun.

Mix it right in your cup – no shaker needed. Just pour tequila over ice, squeeze fresh lime, and top with cold seltzer. Some campers bring canned sparkling water to make it even easier. It’s become one of the most popular drinks for camping because it’s so effortlessly refreshing and won’t leave you feeling sluggish.

7. Muddled Berry Lemonade (Mocktail)

This non-alcoholic camping drink proves you don’t need alcohol to create something special around the campfire. Start with lemonade as your base, then muddle fresh strawberries, blackberries, or whatever berries you find at the campsite or farmers’ market. Add sparkling water and fresh mint for a drink that looks and tastes restaurant-quality.

The muddling process releases the berries’ natural juices and creates beautiful color in your drink. Even kids can help make this one, which makes it fun for family camping trips. The combination of tart lemonade, sweet berries, and bubbly water creates layers of flavor that rival any camping cocktail.

Fresh mint is the secret ingredient that takes this from good to great. Just slap the mint leaves in your palm before adding them to release the oils. This camping drink recipe is perfect for hot summer afternoons when you need serious refreshment without alcohol. It’s also incredibly Instagram-worthy if you’re documenting your camping adventures.

8. Whiskey Ginger

The Whiskey Ginger earns its place among classic camp cocktails through pure simplicity. Two ingredients – whiskey and ginger ale or ginger beer – create a drink that’s satisfying, easy to make, and requires almost no cooler space. Use bourbon, rye, or any whiskey you prefer. The ginger’s spicy notes complement whiskey’s warmth perfectly.

For camping purposes, ginger ale works fine and packs lighter than glass bottles of ginger beer. However, if you can swing it, ginger beer’s stronger ginger flavor creates a more complex camping cocktail. Either way, you’re looking at a drink that takes literally 30 seconds to make.

Pour whiskey over ice, top with ginger ale, give it a quick stir, and you’re done. Some campers add a lime wedge, but it’s completely optional. This is the kind of camping drink you can make in the dark with a headlamp after a long day. Simple, reliable, and always refreshing.

9. Aperol Spritz

This Italian classic has become a camping favorite because it’s light, bubbly, and perfectly suited for warm weather. Mix Aperol with Prosecco or any sparkling wine, add a splash of soda water, and garnish with an orange slice. The result is a bittersweet, refreshing camping cocktail that feels fancy even in the wilderness.

What makes this one of the better camping cocktail recipes is its low alcohol content. The high proportion of sparkling wine and soda means you can sip one or two without getting overly buzzed before dinner. The bitter orange flavor is incredibly refreshing and cuts through heat effectively.

Aperol comes in small bottles that pack reasonably well, and you can use canned Prosecco or wine for easier transport. This camping drink works especially well for sunset drinking sessions when you want something sophisticated but not too heavy. It’s become increasingly popular at campsites across the country.

10. Hot Toddy

When temperatures drop at night, a Hot Toddy becomes essential. This classic camping drink combines whiskey, honey, hot water, and lemon juice for a warming beverage that soothes and relaxes. You can make it right over your campfire or camp stove, making it perfect for cool evenings.

The honey dissolves in hot water and adds natural sweetness while coating your throat. Lemon provides vitamin C and brightness. Whiskey brings warmth. Together, they create one of the most comforting camp cocktails you can make. Add a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.

This camping cocktail recipe takes about five minutes from start to finish. Just heat water, stir in honey until dissolved, add whiskey and lemon juice, and enjoy. It’s particularly popular during fall and winter camping when nights get genuinely cold. Some campers swear by it for helping them sleep better outdoors.

11. Sangria (Make-Ahead Version)

Sangria might be the ultimate make-ahead camping drink. Mix red wine with brandy, orange juice, chopped fruit, and a bit of sweetener before you leave home. Let it sit in the fridge overnight, then transport it in a sealed container. By the time you reach camp, the flavors have melded beautifully.

This camping cocktail works perfectly for group trips because one batch serves several people. Pack it in a large water bottle or jug, keep it cold, and pour over ice when ready. The fruit adds natural sweetness and makes each cup feel special. Popular fruit additions include oranges, apples, berries, and even peaches.

What campers love most about sangria is how well it travels. Everything mixes in one container, so you’re not juggling multiple bottles and ingredients. It’s refreshing, not too strong, and the fruit provides a nice snack. This camping drink recipe has been a campsite staple for generations.

12. Infused Water Mocktail

Sometimes the best camping drinks are the simplest and healthiest. Infused water requires no recipe, just creativity. Slice cucumbers, oranges, lemons, or strawberries and let them sit in water for a few hours. The result is subtly flavored water that’s infinitely more interesting than plain H2O.

This non-alcoholic option is perfect for staying hydrated during active camping days. The fruit adds just enough flavor to make drinking water enjoyable without any sugar or calories. Many campers prepare a large jug in the morning and sip from it throughout the day.

Try cucumber and mint for a spa-like refreshment, or lemon and strawberry for something fruity. Oranges add sweetness, while lime provides tartness. Mix and match based on what’s fresh and available. This camping drink idea costs almost nothing and keeps everyone properly hydrated in the heat.

13. Dark ‘N’ Stormy

This classic Caribbean camping cocktail combines dark rum with ginger beer and lime. The rum’s molasses-rich flavor pairs beautifully with ginger’s spice and lime’s tartness. It’s similar to a Moscow Mule but with more depth and complexity from the dark rum.

The drink originated in Bermuda and has become popular among campers who want something tropical without getting too complicated. You don’t need special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just pour rum over ice, squeeze lime, and top with ginger beer. Some recipes add a dash of bitters, but it’s optional.

This camping drink shines in hot weather when you want something that feels like vacation. The ginger beer’s carbonation and spice make it incredibly refreshing, while the rum adds just enough warmth to balance things out. It’s become one of those drinks for camping that people request by name.

14. Spiked Apple Cider (Hot or Cold)

Apple cider is a camping staple that works year-round. In summer, serve it cold over ice with a shot of bourbon, rum, or whiskey. In fall and winter, heat it with spices like cinnamon and cloves, then add your spirit of choice. Either way, you’ve got a versatile camping cocktail that adapts to any season.

The cold version is refreshingly crisp and perfect after a hot day on the trail. The warm version becomes a campfire essential during chilly evenings. Many campers bring premade spiced cider mixes to simplify preparation. Just heat, spike, and enjoy.

What makes this one of the best camping drinks is its crowd-pleasing nature. Non-drinkers can enjoy plain cider, while others add alcohol to taste. The apple flavor pairs well with almost any spirit, though bourbon and rum are traditional favorites. This camping cocktail recipe requires minimal effort for maximum comfort.

15. Dirty Shirley Temple

This camping drink puts an adult spin on the childhood classic. Start with lemon-lime soda and grenadine for that signature pink color, then add vodka to make it grown-up. It’s sweet, colorful, and seriously refreshing on hot camping days. The best part? It’s one of the easiest camping cocktails to make.

The Dirty Shirley has exploded in popularity at bars everywhere, and it translates perfectly to camping. Kids can enjoy the non-alcoholic version (regular Shirley Temple) while adults add vodka to theirs. This makes it ideal for family camping trips where you’re serving multiple age groups.

Pour grenadine over ice, add lemon-lime soda, top with vodka if desired, and garnish with a maraschino cherry. That’s it. The bright color and sweet flavor make it feel special even though it takes seconds to make. It’s become one of the most requested camp cocktails at group gatherings.

How to Pack and Prepare Camping Drinks?

Before heading out, consider these tips for bringing drinks camping. Use reusable water bottles or flasks to transport pre-mixed cocktails instead of heavy glass bottles. This saves weight and space while preventing breakage. Many campers batch their favorite camping cocktail recipes at home, then pour them into lightweight containers for the trip.

Prioritize ingredients that serve multiple purposes. Lemon and lime juice work in dozens of camping drinks. Ginger beer or ginger ale appears in several camp cocktails. Simple syrup can sweeten almost anything. This strategy reduces what you need to pack.

For ice, freeze water bottles instead of using loose ice cubes. As they melt, you’ve got cold drinking water. Alternatively, freeze juice or premixed cocktails in bottles for drinks that chill themselves. Keep frequently accessed drinks at the top of your cooler to minimize opening it and losing cold air.

Remember to pack unbreakable cups, a simple stirring spoon, and maybe a small cutting board and knife for slicing fruit. You don’t need fancy bar tools. A pocket knife and reusable straws cover most camping drink needs. Keep it simple and focus on enjoying the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best camping cocktails for hot weather?

The best camping cocktails for beating the heat include Ranch Water, Paloma, Moscow Mule, and Aperol Spritz. These drinks feature high ratios of soda or sparkling water to alcohol, keeping you refreshed without dehydration. They’re also light, citrusy, and easy to make with minimal equipment at the campsite.

Can I make camping drinks without alcohol?

Absolutely! Many camping drinks work perfectly as mocktails. Try muddled berry lemonade, mocktail Moscow Mules (just ginger beer and lime), infused water, or non-alcoholic versions of classics like Shirley Temples. These drinks for camping are just as refreshing and creative as their alcoholic counterparts.

How do I keep camping drinks cold without electricity?

Use a quality cooler with plenty of ice or frozen water bottles. Freeze some of your drinks before leaving home so they serve double duty as ice packs and beverages. Keep your cooler in the shade, minimize opening it, and consider using separate coolers for frequently accessed items versus drinks you’ll consume later.

What camping drink ingredients travel best?

Canned or boxed items travel better than glass. Choose canned sparkling water, boxed juice, and plastic bottles when possible. Spirits in plastic flasks are lighter than glass bottles. Citrus fruits last several days in coolers. Pre-made simple syrups, juice concentrates, and powdered mixes take up minimal space.

How much alcohol should I bring camping?

Plan for 1-2 drinks per person per evening, adjusting based on your group’s preferences. Remember that hiking and outdoor activities in the heat can intensify alcohol’s effects. Always drink plenty of water between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated. Consider bringing less than you think you’ll need – it’s easier to wish you had more than to pack out heavy bottles.