by Susan Morris

Created on: July 22, 2008   Last Updated: July 26, 2008

Nothing goes with the great outdoors like the aroma of steaming hot coffee. There are endless brewing choices for your cup of joe. This article will explore some of the more popular methods, including boiled, (Turkish or cowboy coffee,) drip, French press, percolated, and cold brewed coffee, and some helpful products for campsite coffee.

Whether backpacking or tent camping, there are a wide range of options. If you will be using an unfamiliar method, consider trying it at home first. After you master the technique, it will be easier at the campsite.

Consider your destination: If you are backpacking in the deep woods, you'll be traveling light. If you are tent camping at an established campsite, it may already have a sturdy picnic table on which to rest a camp stove, or a fire ring with a grate.

All brewing techniques require water. A popular option is to bring bottled water. Some established campsites provide a clean water source, but the water may be high in minerals or have an off-taste. Once while camping, one of my children became ill with a gastrointestinal infection. I believe the cause was a campsite water fountain which was habituated by wildlife.

If it isn't practical to bring water, it's recommended to treat it. Iodine is not recommended for coffee due to taste. Instead, some methods include ultraviolet light, using a product like the Hydro-Photon SteriPEN. Or try the PUR Clean Drinking Water kit, which uses a combination of filtration and chemical treatment.

You'll need a heat source. There are a variety of camp stoves on the market, or you can build a campfire. Unless you are very experienced with campfires, I recommend bringing an alternate heat source. There is nothing worse than stepping out of your tent, anticipating that morning cup, and discovering that your firewood is wet and your coals have gone out. Keep other methods available until you are certain of your campfire skills.

Brewing temperature is a topic of hot debate. Many believe the ideal coffee brewing temperature is between 195 and 204 degrees Fahrenheit, because higher temperatures produce a bitter taste. Others swear by boiling the coffee for ten or more minutes. I wonder if boiled coffee is more popular at higher altitudes, where water boils at a lower temperature. Some prefer cold-water brewing, which produces a milder flavor.

If possible, grind the beans just before brewing. If you would like to use a coffee mill at the campsite, a good one is the JavaGrind by GSI Outdoors. http://www.gsioutdoors.com/

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