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The charcoal, gas, and wood-free grill your campsite needs

When bad weather strikes, the Kenyon City Grill offers a practical solution

A Kenyon City Grill in front of an RV
Rachel Dennis / The Manual

Outdoor cooking while camping adds depth to dinner alongside the joy of concocting meals in nature. But when caught in a downpour or a burn ban, a backup plan like the Kenyon Grill can keep meals on track. The electric griddle is charcoal, wood, and gas-free, compact enough to fit in an RV or on your campsite’s picnic table. 

With the compact Kenyon City Grill in my arsenal, I can easily cook meals with minimal cleanup, using a dedicated power source or a portable generator for off-grid convenience. I’ll share how, where, and when to use it, so you can decide if it’s right for your travel setup. 

The Kenyon City Grill provides versatility without hassle

The Kenyon City Grill is approximately 21 x 12 x 9 inches, about the size of a backpack or printer, and weighs 27 pounds, fitting easily into my SUV. It comfortably fits on compact RV countertops or even a small folding camping table. It’s rated as an indoor/outdoor device, so you can use it on adventures or alternate between keeping it in your kitchen or bringing it on the road.

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Its non-stick grate is constructed from cast-aluminum and is nearly smokeless, so it’s easy to cook inside your RV without air quality issues. The grill runs on electricity and can plug into a standard 120V outlet with a built-in 3-prong cord. 

The Kenyon Grill heats up in a fraction of the time compared to traditional camp cooking methods. It reaches 550 degrees Fahrenheit in about 5 minutes and 600 degrees Fahrenheit in about 10 minutes. It’s also extremely easy to clean with a removable grate and disposable drip tray that are easy to rinse right after cooking. 

Perks of using the Kenyon Grill while RVing or camping

Campers who want to use the Kenyon Grill outdoors will most benefit from the ability to cook during rain or shine, in or out of a fire ban. The cord is fully protected from outdoor elements, and the grill comes with a cover that conveniently protects food inside on a windy or wet day. 

Many campsites explicitly allow electric grills and even have outlet posts that can power them, handy for tent campers. You can also power the grill with an off-grid solution like a generator that connects to a lightweight solar panel and turns your grill into a truly portable device. 

Kenyon’s culinary machines are high-quality and constructed with a stainless steel outer casing and solid knobs, handles, and joints. I felt it could hold up to the elements without being too large and cumbersome. 

Is the Kenyon City Grill right for you?

With the Kenyon City Grill being the smallest and most portable option in the brand’s arsenal, it’s a clear choice for anyone who wants a powerful, space-saving device. But there are a few specific use-cases it works best for, and a few situations in which it may not be your best bet. 

The Kenyon Grill is hands-down the best for travelers who commute and camp in an RV. Its small size makes it easy to place on limited counter space, with the flexibility of being able to use it right outside your trailer as well. Tent campers are also great candidates for the grill, and can easily be set up on-site. Just make sure to clean and place the grill in your car overnight, in case an unexpected storm rolls through or animals are attracted to your site. 

Outdoor enthusiasts don’t have to limit usage to the campsite, as the Kenyon Grill is also a great indoor option and looks modern and clean, placed atop a counter in a small kitchen. It fits well in studios, dorm rooms, or small balconies. 

However, the device may not be the best fit for those crafting larger meals, such as a rack of ribs or a whole 5-pound chicken. This is because the grill’s hood has a fairly low clearance and is designed for grilling shorter dishes like vegetables, burgers, and sausages. 

The grill is also on the higher end of the pricing spectrum, especially in comparison to charcoal and wood-fed alternatives. However, you won’t need to purchase fuel, a big savings in the long run with regular use. And the device has strict safety standards and details like the GFCI three-prong cord that prevent issues during outdoor use. 

Overall, it’s a practical, easy-to-maintain accessory for the campsite, worth it for those who don’t want to compromise a well-prepared meal when spending time in the great outdoors. If you want full control over mealtime regardless of local regulations or weather, it’s a great fit.

Rachel Dennis
Full-time slow traveler sharing honest insights on nature, culture, and travel to help you plan informed memorable adventures
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