There’s something magical about fall in the mountains—the crisp air, the golden leaves, and the crackle of a campfire under the stars. And nothing pairs better with that moment than a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee. At Snowy Elk Coffee, we believe that adventure and coffee go hand in hand, and fall is the perfect season to take your brew outdoors.
Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just enjoying a backyard fire pit, here’s how to brew the perfect cup of campfire coffee this fall.
Choose the Right Coffee
For campfire mornings, you’ll want a coffee that’s bold enough to warm you up, yet smooth enough to sip slowly. Dark roasts like our Howlin' Wolf Espresso or Campfire are excellent for outdoor brewing, while a lighter roast like Morning Bugle can add bright, crisp flavors that match the season. Bring whole beans if possible—they stay fresher longer and give you the full aroma of fall with every grind.
Pick Your Brewing Method
There’s no one “right” way to make campfire coffee—it depends on your setup and how rustic you want to be. A few favorite methods:
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Percolator: The classic campfire brewer. Just add water, coffee grounds, and let it perk over the fire until the rich aroma fills the air.
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French Press: Easy to pack, and it delivers a smooth, bold cup with minimal fuss. Heat water in a kettle over the fire, pour, steep, press, and enjoy.
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Pour Over: For coffee purists, bring a lightweight dripper and filters. It takes a little more effort, but you’ll get a clean, flavorful cup.
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Cowboy Coffee: No gear? No problem. Just boil water, toss in grounds, stir, let them settle, and carefully pour. Rustic, strong, and timeless.
Heat Your Water Properly
Water temperature makes or breaks your brew. Ideally, you want it just below boiling (around 200°F). This is easiest done by using an electric kettle. This avoids bitter over-extraction and gives you a smoother cup.
Add a Seasonal Twist
Fall is the season of cozy flavors, and your campfire coffee can match the mood. Try stirring in:
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A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg
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A drizzle of maple syrup
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A splash of cream or oat milk for a creamy, fireside treat
These small touches add warmth and seasonal comfort without overpowering the rich taste of Snowy Elk Coffee.
Savor the Moment
The best part of campfire coffee isn’t just the flavor—it’s the experience. Wrap yourself in a blanket, breathe in the smoky air, sip slowly, and let the simplicity of the moment ground you. Coffee outdoors has a way of making the world feel bigger, yet more peaceful at the same time.
Final Sip
This fall, don’t just drink coffee—make it an adventure. Pack your favorite Snowy Elk roast, gather around the fire, and experience the rich flavors of coffee the way nature intended: simple, bold, and unforgettable.