Picking out a new chair isn’t particularly exciting, except when it’s for camping. But, if you spend a lot of time outside at the campsite, sitting by the fire, enjoying time with family and friends, then you know a good camp chair is a must.
However, some camping chairs are better than others, and finding the right one can sometimes seem overwhelming. Have no fear; we’re here to help.
Just like Goldilocks had a hard time finding the right bed, she knew what she liked as soon as she laid down in it. Likewise, a camp chair may be perfect for one person but not too comfortable for another. The good news is that we’ve compiled an extensive list of camp chairs, organized into different styles and features, to help you find the one that is “just right.”
I’ve scoured through hundreds of camping chair reviews, tested them out at camping stores and camping shows, and come up with my top picks for the right camping chairs for each category.
If you want to jump right to the suggestions, here’s a quick link to the following sections.
What makes a good camp chair?
Do you know that feeling when you’re moving around all day and finally finding a chance to sit down? Then, when you finally settle into your seat, there’s that rewarding deep sigh that comes out and a feeling of “I don’t want to get back up” that embodies you. Well, the right camp chair should make you feel like that every time. Besides, camping is super fun and should be as relaxing as possible.
Portability:
Sure, you can bring a lazy boy recliner to the campground, but renting a Uhaul is typically not part of the plan. The great thing about camp chairs is that they are typically portable. Some more so than others. I find that portability is a good goal to strive for; if you can, it makes setting up the campsite quick and easy. Finding the right balance between portability and comfort is a good target when choosing a camp chair.
In addition to portability comes packability. This is typically a big consideration for campers. Being able to collapse and store a camp chair easily is a huge plus, no matter what type of camping you do. A portable camping chair doesn’t mean you can’t have a comfortable seat.
Comfort:
Finding a comfortable chair should be at the top of your list, especially if you invest a little money in a good one. While it’s easy to find inexpensive camp chairs at a big box store, they’re usually pretty basic, with a thin piece of fabric wrapped around a thin-aluminum frame. In addition, they’re usually pretty uncomfortable.
However, an increase in comfort is usually accompanied by an increase in size and weight. If these are unimportant, then your options open up quite a bit. Finding something in the middle is usually a good choice for most people.
A comfortable camp chair usually has a little padding and keeps your body weight off the metal frame. They’ll also usually be a little larger, providing more space to absorb the weight of your body and dispersing it throughout the chair. One of the best ways to determine whether a chair is comfortable when purchasing it online is to read reviews. The best RV camping chairs should be comfortable.
Durability:
I have owned many inexpensive camp chairs that don’t last. Most camp chairs are exposed to the sun and rain and, over time, can wear out. If built with inferior materials, this will happen much more quickly. Many poorly made portable chairs will struggle to make it through a single camping season.
In my experience, the most crucial aspect of a camp chair regarding durability is the fabric and stitching. A good camp chair will have a heavier grade fabric that withstands harsh sun and weather. It will also hold up much better to repeated use.
The frame of the camp chair is also important. Since most outdoor chairs are designed to fold, if the hinges or attachment points are inferior, they’ll begin to seize up and become increasingly more challenging to open and close. On the other hand, chairs with a nylon washer at the hinge points are a good sign of a better-quality chair.
Chair Style:
Camp chairs come in various styles, including the traditional 4-leg foldable one, recliners and loungers, rocking camp chairs, and ultra-portable chairs. In addition, some may have add-ons like footrests, umbrellas, or even built-in tables.
Choosing the right style is a personal preference. However, it’s important to note that the larger it is when set up, the harder it will be to move and store. Luckily, most will still fold down into a portable size that can fit inside a trunk or RV storage compartment.
Features:
Today’s chairs are much more feature-rich than the old folding lawn chairs I had growing up. Many chairs have wild features like heated seats, USB ports, or even cooled beverage holders. While some of these are gimmicky, some are really nice to have.
Personally, I’m more of a minimalist and prefer a good durable camp chair over added features, but it doesn’t mean that I can’t appreciate some of them. In the suggestions below, we’ll cover some of the features and highlight the chairs with noteworthy ones.
One age-old feature that I appreciate is a quality drink holder. While I typically find myself using it for a cell phone holder, I really appreciate chairs with wide and durable ones. Unfortunately, some chairs use a thin mesh material for this, which I find less than ideal because they always seem to tear.
Selecting a chair
When selecting a chair, you will want to consider your intended uses for it and who will be sitting in it. If you’re a little bigger, you may want to choose an oversized chair with a higher weight limit. However, if you want something ultra-portable, look for the lightest chair with the best reviews for comfort. The best chair for one person may be the wrong chair for someone else.
You will also need to choose the style of chair. If you want to sit in an upright position, stay away from rockers or loungers. Also, pay attention to extra features like heated seats, coolers, and pouches, or shade covers. The last thing to always check is durability and materials. This is especially important if you’re spending a lot of money on a chair since you want it to last. The only thing worse than buying the wrong chair is spending a lot of money on one that doesn’t last a long time.
Below is a list of some of the best camping chairs out there:
Best Standard Camp Chairs
The Coleman Camp Chair with Side Table is the perfect outdoor companion, designed to make your camping, tailgating, outdoor concert, or picnicking experience comfortable and convenient. It's one of my favorite camping chairs with a table. With its flip-up side table and cup holder, you can keep your drink or snack within reach without getting up from your seat. The relaxed angled seat cushioned back, and padded armrests provide hours of comfort, while the lightweight aluminum frame makes transport a breeze. The fabric is weather-resistant so you can enjoy this chair season after season. The chair supports up to 225 lbs. and comes with a 1-year limited warranty, ensuring that it's built to last. The chair's dimensions are 20.5 inches wide and 17 inches high, making it compact and easy to store.
The Eureka Lowrider Chair is the perfect accessory for your next camping trip. This low-profile chair is designed with comfort and portability in mind, and its smaller size makes it easy to carry along on your outdoor adventures. The durable polyester and powder-coated steel construction ensure that this chair will hold up against daily camping wear and tear.
The faux leather seat and headrest add extra comfort, making it easy to relax by the campfire for hours on end. The chair also comes with a cup holder to keep your favorite beverage close at hand. The included carrying bag makes it easy to transport the chair from your car to the campsite, and the chair itself is foldable for easy storage.
With dimensions of 21"D x 21" W x 30"H, the Eureka Lowrider Chair combines style, comfort, and convenience. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, this chair is a must-have for your next outdoor excursion.
Best Lounger Camp Chairs
The NEMO Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair is a comfortable and stylish choice for outdoor enthusiasts and campers. The chair is designed to provide a relaxing motion that swings smoothly and gently, making it perfect for stargazing, reading, or just enjoying the great outdoors. The headrest is supportive, and the deep reclining action allows for a full night sky view.
Additionally, the chair features a new geometry that provides a lower center of gravity, resulting in a wider fit range. You can also enjoy the gentle swinging motion on any surface, whether it be rocky, sandy, or uneven ground, as it's not limited to just rocking chairs. The auto-reclining feature makes it easy to find the perfect sitting angle just by leaning back and shifting your body weight.
The chair's frame is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, making it sturdier than most camping chairs on the market. Despite its sturdiness, it still packs down quickly and compactly, making it easy to transport and store. Whether you're camping, tailgating, or just relaxing in the backyard, the NEMO Equipment Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camping Chair is the perfect choice for comfort and style. This is my favorite RV chair and the best choice if you want comfort and the zero gravity chair feel.
The ENO Lounger DL is a must-have for anyone who loves to relax and lounge outdoors. With its high back support and integrated headrest, this camping chair provides ultimate comfort and is perfect for lounging by the campfire for hours on end. The DL Lounger is made with 210D ripstop nylon and a durable aluminum alloy frame, making it both sturdy and lightweight. It has two adjustable leg heights and can support up to 250 pounds, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
The shock-corded assembly of the DL Lounger is effortless, and it comes with a convenient stuff sack, making it easy to bring along on any adventure. The integrated pillow supports your head, and the lounger also includes two cargo pockets and a cup holder, making it easy to keep snacks and cold drinks within reach. And not only is ENO committed to making great products, but they also give back by donating to organizations that preserve our wild places. This high quality chair has excellent reviews and is the best choice for back comfort and tall people.
Most Comfortable Camp Chairs
The MacSports Camping Chair is the perfect companion for all your outdoor adventures. Made of durable and stain-resistant polyester material, this chair is built to last. With a weight capacity of 375 lbs, you can sit comfortably knowing that you're supported.
The open dimensions are 28.7" L x 32" W x 36" H, making it roomy and comfortable for all your outdoor activities. When it's time to pack up and go, the chair folds down easily to 12" L x 10" W x 42" H, making it portable and easy to store.
The chair comes with a handy carry bag for easy transport, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Just unfold it and start enjoying the great outdoors!
The Guide Gear Club Camp Chair is perfect for a cozy and comfortable outdoor experience. It's oversized and padded, making it the ultimate relaxation spot. And don't worry about carrying it around, as the legs fold up easily for transportation. The chair also has a sturdy steel frame, supports up to 500 lbs, and is water-resistant. Plus, it has a convenient cup holder and mesh pocket for storing your drinks and camping essentials—all this and more, with the bonus of a handy storage bag for portability.
The SUNTIME Sofa Chair is a must-have for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. The chair is designed for ultimate comfort with its moon saucer design and breathable 600D cationic fabric seat. It's completely padded for all-around body comfort, making it perfect for relaxing outside. The duty steel frame construction is both stable and strong, with a weight capacity of up to 250 lbs. So whether you're an adult or a child, you can enjoy this chair easily. The chair is also easy to transport and store, with a compact packed size of 36x7.87x7.87 inches and a weight of just 12 lbs.
It opens and closes in seconds and comes with a carry bag and shoulder strap for easy transport and storage. So whether you're on the lawn, camping, fishing, sporting events, or any other outdoor activity, this chair is the perfect companion for your outdoor travels, offering good value for one of the most comfortable portable chairs.
Best Portable Camp Chairs
Are you looking for a lightweight and compact RV camp chair? Look no further! This backpacking chair is so lightweight, and it's even lighter than a bottle of wine! The chair frame is made from a strong and advanced aluminum alloy and can hold up to 320 pounds. In addition, the seat and carrying case are durable, UV-resistant, and even machine washable. Setting it up is a breeze with just one internal bungee cord, and it measures 21.5W x 20D x 25.5H inches with a seat height of 10 inches. Perfect for travel and camping, it weighs only 2.10 pounds and measures 4 x 4.5 x 14 inches when packed in the included carrying bag. And, with the manufacturer's five-year warranty, you can trust in its quality and durability.
The Moonlite is a unique and comfortable light weight backcountry chair from Nemo, one of my favorite outdoor gear companies and on of my favorite camping chairs. It's small and lightweight, making it perfect for backpacking and even motorcycle camping trips. The chair is easy to set up and offers a reclining system for multi-position sitting so you can lean forward for a relaxing kickback or recline in comfort. The seamless construction of the seat, made from custom-engineered, asymmetrical mesh, stretches to accommodate and support a variety of body types without uncomfortable seams.
The seat attaches to the frame with molded, ball-and-socket connectors that rotate and align with your body to avoid pressure points. The chair is made with 100% post-consumer recycled materials and is bluesign approved, making it a sustainable choice. The compact size and easy set-up of Moonlite make it the perfect companion for any outdoor adventure, while the comfortable and supportive design makes it easy to get in and out of for all sizes. This is one of the lightest chairs on the list.
Best Rocking and Reclining Camp Chairs
The Zero Gravity Chairs are designed to offer the ultimate in outdoor comfort. With its unique design that simulates zero gravity while you're reclined, you'll feel like you're floating on air. In addition, the locking mechanism and elastic cord support system make it easy to adjust the chair to your desired position and body size, so you can sit comfortably for as long as you like.
Made with UV-resistant Textilene fabric, these chairs are built to last and are weather-resistant so that you can use them season after season. In addition, the lightweight and durable steel frame makes it easy to transport the chairs, and the assembly process is simple, requiring no tools.
With a 90-day manufacturer's warranty and customer support, you can sit back and relax worry-free, knowing that your Zero Gravity Chairs are built to last and backed by a company that stands behind its products. So whether you're camping, relaxing in the backyard, or just enjoying a beautiful day outside, these chairs are the perfect choice for anyone looking for comfort and quality.
The Coleman Cross Rocker Chair is the perfect addition to any outdoor adventure. By borrowing design elements from your favorite at-home furniture, this chair provides the ultimate comfort for your camping trips. With its smooth-rocking legs and relaxing silhouette, you'll be able to kick back and enjoy your evenings around the fire.
The chair's steel frame is built to support up to 300 pounds, and the weather-resistant fabric with a water-repelling PU coating ensures that you stay comfortable even in inclement weather. The angled seat and padded arms encourage total relaxation, while the cleverly designed cup holder stays level as the chair rocks to enjoy your favorite drinks without spillage.
With dimensions of 30"D x 9"W x 27"H, this portable chair folds flat and secures with an attached buckle closure, making it easy to transport from your car to the campsite. The Coleman Cross Rocker Chair is the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and style, making it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.
The Padded Zero-Gravity Patio Chair is the perfect solution for ultimate comfort while relaxing outdoors. It features a removable headrest pillow and a cup holder for convenience. The chair is made of durable steel and oxford polyester fabric and folds down for compact storage and easy transport. The chair is also easy to clean. With dimensions of 29.25-35.6 x 38.26-64.25 x 30.98-44.25 inches, the chairs are a little bigger and heavier than others. However, they're designed for lounging and comfort. This zero gravity chair has received excellent reviews on Amazon.
The ALPS Mountaineering Breeze Rocker is a compact and stylish outdoor chair that offers ultimate comfort and convenience. With dimensions of 17"D x 22" W x 31"H, it's the perfect size for outdoor adventures. The chair is made from TechMesh, a durable and breathable material, ensuring you stay comfortable even on hot days.
This rocking chair features armrests for added comfort and a foldable design for easy portability. Whether you're heading to the beach, the park, or simply relaxing in your backyard, the ALPS Mountaineering Breeze Rocker is a perfect choice. Its combination of style, comfort, and portability make it a must-have for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
Enjoy the ultimate outdoor relaxation with the MacSports MacRocker Rocking Chair! With its noise-less rocking tech, padded armrests, and mesh pockets for your drinks and belongings, you'll be comfortable and organized while picnicking, camping, or tailgating. In addition, its exclusive spring-less tech, anti-tipping protection, and anti-rust frame make it a sturdy and reliable choice.
Set it up quickly with one push of the handlebar and fold it up just as quickly for easy mobility and storage. Built with a lightweight yet sturdy powder-coated steel frame and heavy-duty canvas fabric, it supports up to 225 lbs. The dimensions are 24" W x 25" D x 33" H. This is the perfect camping chair if you're looking for a rocker.
Best Camp Chairs with Extra Features
The Cuddle Couch is a low, relaxed, and slightly reclining camping chair. It's the perfect RV camping chair for two people and even the family dog. With a base height of only 13.5 inches, it provides a comfortable and intimate seating experience while being close to the ground. It has 42 inches of seating space on a cushioned and insulated 600D weight polyester fabric, which is nearly indestructible.
The Low Loveseat is an excellent option for beach trips or any outdoor activity, as it offers a relaxed and sturdy seating solution. The steel frame makes it durable and perfect for outdoor use, and its weight capacity of 500 lbs makes it suitable for everyone. It also features insulated beverage holders on each adjustable armrest, perfect for keeping drinks and snacks within reach.
This chair is made to last, with quality materials and thoughtful Kelty craftsmanship. The strong steel frame and puppy-proof fabric will keep you warm and comfortable for years to come. Additionally, it is easy to transport, as it folds neatly into the included roll tote and has a total weight of only 15 lbs.
The SUNNYFEEL Heated Camping Chair is the perfect addition to any outdoor activity, whether it's sports, beach trips, picnics, or camping. The chair features advanced heating technology powered by a USB battery pack (not included) and can warm up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit with the simple push of a button. This heating technology helps to keep your blood moving to your extremities, allowing you to stay comfortable and warm during any season, and also helps to prevent sore muscles after long periods of being seated. A must-have for lower back pain.
The chair offers three adjustable reclining positions, making it easy for you to find the perfect level of comfort and relaxation. The fully padded seat, back, and armrests provide hours of lounging comfort, and the XL size makes it comfortable for adults. The chair also features an easy-access cup holder, keeping all your items safe, clean, and within reach. This is really a great camping chair with great features. The only downside is you need to keep your battery pack charged.
The SUNNYFEEL Heated Camping Chair is built to last, with a sturdy steel frame construction that can support up to 300 lbs. The double-seam 600x300D oxford cloth and 3D breathable mesh with 140g foam padding provide great strength, durability, and breathability, ensuring that the chair will withstand heavy use and not need to be replaced anytime soon. The chair weighs 11 lbs and is easy to carry, making it an excellent choice for all your outdoor adventures.
The SwimWays Kelsyus Original Foldable Canopy Chair is a versatile and convenient outdoor seating solution. It converts from a quad-style camp chair into a personal canopy-covered oasis with the push of a button. The retractable sun canopy provides 50+ UPF sun protection and can be lowered behind the chair while you are seated for sunbathing. This chair is also portable and easy to carry. The canopy becomes the carry case when folded and secured by a durable snap-lock buckle and attached shoulder strap, eliminating the need for a separate carrying bag. This is a great chair for a camping trip where you don't have an awning or a sporting event when you're sitting in direct sunlight.
Measuring 37 "L x 24" W x 58 "H, this chair can support kids and adults up to 250 lbs, making it the perfect companion for camping trips, tailgating, and watching the kids from the sidelines. In addition, it is covered by the SwimWays Spin Master Care Commitment, ensuring that you receive a high-quality product for many outdoor enjoyment seasons.
Best Camp Chairs for Bigger People
The Extra Wide King Kong Folding Camp Chair is the ultimate outdoor companion that brings comfort and convenience to your camping, tailgating, and beach trips. With a weight capacity of a whopping 800 lbs. and a spacious 24" seat, this chair accommodates even the largest of individuals. The high backrest and cushioned khaki polyester canvas provide maximum comfort, while the side pocket cooler and cup holder armrests ensure you have all your essentials within reach.
The chair's sturdy powder-coated steel frame is designed to withstand any outdoor adventure, and it can be easily folded and stored in the included shoulder carry bag. With dimensions of 38" W x 20" D x 38" H and a weight of only 13 lbs., this chair is both practical and portable.
Don't miss out on having a perfect seat wherever you go. Instead, make the Extra Wide King Kong Folding Camp Chair part of your outdoor gear and enjoy its comfort and convenience.
The SUNNYFEEL XL Oversized Chair offers an extra spacious and comfortable seating solution for outdoor activities. With a sturdy steel frame construction, the chair supports up to 300 lbs weight capacity, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The chair is designed for user convenience, featuring a built-in bottle opener, two attached cup holders, and shoulder straps attached carry bag for easy transportation.
The double-seam 600x300D Oxford Cloth with 140g foam padding provides strength, durability, and breathability, ensuring that the chair can withstand heavy-duty use. The chair is easy to set up, simply take it out of the carry bag and pull the frame apart. The SUNNYFEEL XL Oversized Camping Chair is perfect for various outdoor activities, including camping, tailgating, fishing, beach trips, sports games, and more.
Conclusion:
Picking out a new camping chair is crucial if you spend a lot of time outdoors and want to be comfortable while enjoying time with family and friends. The right camp chair should provide comfort, portability, and durability. Portable camp chairs are great for camping trips and should be easy to collapse and store. Comfort is essential, and a good camping chair will have some padding and be a little larger to disperse your body weight throughout the chair.
Durability is essential, and a good camp chair should have a heavier grade fabric that can withstand harsh sun and weather and have a sturdy frame with a nylon washer at the hinge points. The style of camp chairs is also diverse, including traditional 4-leg foldable chairs, rocking camp chairs, and high-back chairs with additional features such as side pockets and side tables. When choosing a camping chair, reading reviews is the best way to determine its comfort and make the right choice. This article provided a comprehensive list of camp chairs with different styles and features, including top picks and great options at a reasonable price. So, whether you’re looking for a luxury camp chair, a portable camping chair, or the best RV camping chair, our list has got you covered.