When you’re out camping, having a dependable generator is crucial for powering your devices, keeping your food cold, and running essential appliances like heaters or lights. Whether you want to charge your phone, use a space heater on a chilly night, or keep a projector running for movie time, the right generator makes all the difference.

We tested 25 popular camping generators and consulted with experienced campers to bring you the best options available in 2024. These picks combine portability, power, quiet operation, and safety features to enhance your outdoor experience.

Here are our top choices:

Our Favorite

Honda EU2200i

• Starting Power: 2200 Watts
  
• Running Power: 1800 Watts
  
• Runtime: Up to 8 hours at light load
  
• Noise Level: 57–58 dB(A)

Best Value

EF ECO FLOW RIVER Pro

• Starting Power: 1200 Watts
  
• Running Power: 720 Watts
  
• Features: Fast charging, solar compatible
  

Budget Option

Champion 2000 Watt

• Starting Power: 2000 Watts
  
• Running Power: 1700 Watts
  
• Runtime: Over 11 hours at low load
  
• Noise Level: 60–61 dB(A)
  

Quick Comparison Table

Generator Model	Fuel Type	Starting Watts	Running Watts	Noise Level (dB)
Honda EU2200i	Gasoline	2200	1800	61–62 at 50% load
EF ECO FLOW RIVER Pro	Battery/Solar	1200	720	Nearly silent
GENMAX GM3500iAED	Dual Fuel (Gas/Propane)	3500	3200	62–63 at 50% load
Jackery Explorer 500	Battery/Solar	1000	500	Silent
Champion 2000 Watt	Gasoline/Dual Fuel	2000	1700	60–61 at 50% load
OUKITEL CN505	Battery/Solar	1000	614	Silent
Champion Power 4500	Gasoline/Dual Fuel	4500	3500	61–62 at 50% load

1. Honda EU2200i — The Gold Standard for Camping Power

Specifications:

• Surge Watts: 2200
  
• Continuous Watts: 1800
  
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.95 gallons
  
• Run Time: About 8 hours at 25% load
  
• Weight: 47.4 lbs
  
• Dimensions: 20″ x 11.4″ x 16.7″
  
• Noise: 57–58 dB(A) on eco mode
  

Description:

The Honda EU2200i is a favorite for good reason. It combines excellent fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and portability. Weighing just under 50 pounds and shaped like a briefcase, it’s easy to carry and store.

Its 121cc engine delivers clean, stable power, able to run devices such as space heaters, laptops, coffee makers, and small refrigerators without a hitch. You’ll get up to 8 hours of runtime on a single tank at light loads, which is ideal for overnight camping or longer trips.

Quiet Operation:

One of the quietest generators in its class, the EU2200i runs at a whisper in eco mode and stays well below levels that disturb fellow campers.

Safety and Features:

• Built-in CO-MINDER sensor shuts the unit off if carbon monoxide reaches unsafe levels.
  
• Two 120V outlets and one 12V DC outlet.
  
• Parallel capability lets you connect two units for double the power.
  
• Bluetooth app support lets you monitor performance from your phone.
  

Bottom Line:

A rugged, reliable generator that’s quiet, fuel-efficient, and safe, perfect for most camping needs. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s an investment in peace of mind and performance.

2. EF ECO FLOW RIVER Pro — Compact Solar Generator for Modern Campers

Specifications:

• Surge Watts: 1200
  
• Continuous Watts: 720
  
• Weight: 16.8 lbs
  
• Dimensions: 11.4″ x 7.3″ x 9.3″
  
• Charging: Wall outlet, car charger, solar panel compatible
  
• Runtime: Up to 8 hours at low load
  

Description:

If you want a clean, quiet, and ultra-portable generator, the RIVER Pro by EF ECO FLOW is an excellent choice. This battery-powered unit can be charged from solar panels, your car, or wall outlets.

The RIVER Pro charges extremely quickly (up to 90% in an hour on wall power) and uses innovative tech to boost output for heavier appliances.

Features:

• Multiple USB ports including fast-charging USB-C.
  
• Three AC outlets for small devices and appliances.
  
• LCD display to track power input/output and remaining battery.
  
• Supports up to 10 devices simultaneously.
  
• Weighs less than 17 pounds, making it very easy to carry.
  

Ideal Use:

Perfect for campers who want quiet, eco-friendly power for devices like phones, laptops, LED lights, small fridges, and more. Solar compatibility adds freedom from gas and noise.

3. GENMAX GM3500iAED — Heavy-Duty Dual Fuel Generator

Specifications:

• Starting Watts: 3500 (gas), 3100 (propane)
  
• Running Watts: 3200 (gas), 2800 (propane)
  
• Runtime: 13–14 hours on gasoline, 20+ hours on propane (low load)
  
• Weight: 59.5 lbs
  
• Dimensions: 20.9″ x 12.2″ x 19.7″
  
• Noise: 62–63 dB(A) at 50% load
  

Description:

The GENMAX GM3500iAED offers the flexibility of running on either gasoline or propane. This makes it a smart choice for campers who want the convenience of multiple fuel options and extended run times.

It comes equipped with wheels and a telescoping handle, making it easier to move around despite its size.

Features:

• Digital control panel with push-button start and remote start capability.
  
• Multiple outlets including an RV-ready 30 amp plug.
  
• Parallel capability to link two units for more power.
  
• Safety features like CO detection and overload protection.
  

Performance:

This generator can run larger appliances and RV air conditioners with ease, making it a reliable option for longer trips and heavier power needs.

How to Pick the Best Generator for Camping

• Determine Your Power Needs: Calculate the wattage of devices you’ll bring.
  
• Choose Your Fuel Type: Gasoline offers long run times; solar/battery units are quiet and clean.
  
• Consider Portability: Weight, size, and handles/wheels affect how easy it is to transport.
  
• Noise Level: Quiet generators help maintain a peaceful campsite.
  
• Runtime: Longer runtime means less frequent refueling or recharging.
  
• Safety: Look for CO detectors, overload protection, and proper grounding.
  
• Extras: Remote start, parallel capability, and smart monitoring can enhance usability.
  

For overall reliability and power, the Honda EU2200i remains the top pick for camping. If you prefer a silent, eco-friendly option, the EF ECO FLOW RIVER Pro is excellent for lightweight camping. And if you need heavy-duty, dual fuel power with added convenience, the GENMAX GM3500iAED is a solid choice.

Whatever your needs, these generators will keep your outdoor adventures powered up and comfortable.