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10 Best Camping Shovels 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Rhino USA Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow. (Recovery Shovel)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,269
Size and Weight
Material
Additional Features

Most important from
13517 reviews

Size and Weight
This compact shovel, reminiscent of an Army Shovel, is perfect for tight spaces and tough digging tasks, making it invaluable for difficult jobs.
Material
Rhino products stand up to heavy abuse, and this shovel is no exception, offering excellent build quality and portability.
Additional Features
The pick feature is particularly useful for breaking through tough ground, enhancing the shovel's functionality.

The Rhino USA Survival Shovel is an excellent option for those who need a reliable and versatile tool for camping, gardening, and off-road adventures. One of its standout features is its 3-in-1 multipurpose design, allowing you to use it as a shovel, pickaxe, or pick hoe, making it highly adaptable for various tasks.

It's compact and portable, folding down to just 9 x 6 inches and weighing only 2 lbs, which makes it easy to carry in its included heavy-duty carry case. The shovel is constructed from durable carbon steel with a black powder-coated finish, ensuring strength and resistance to corrosion, adding to its longevity and sleek appearance. Additionally, Rhino USA offers a lifetime replacement guarantee, providing peace of mind and excellent customer support from a family-operated, American-owned business.

However, it's worth noting that the product's country of origin is China, which might be a consideration for some buyers. Also, while the shovel's compact size is advantageous for portability, it may not be suitable for very heavy digging tasks due to its smaller blade and overall size. This shovel is best for those seeking a lightweight, durable, and versatile tool for a variety of outdoor activities.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,269
Size and Weight
Material
Additional Features

Most important from
13517 reviews

Size and Weight
This compact shovel, reminiscent of an Army Shovel, is perfect for tight spaces and tough digging tasks, making it invaluable for difficult jobs.
Material
Rhino products stand up to heavy abuse, and this shovel is no exception, offering excellent build quality and portability.
Additional Features
The pick feature is particularly useful for breaking through tough ground, enhancing the shovel's functionality.
#2

DARTMOOR Camping Shovel, 24" Larger Folding Shovel with Saw Edge, Portable Outdoor Survival Snow Shovel for Off Road Camping Hiking Digging Backpacking, Car Emergency, Entrenching Tool, Green

Rating
8.2
Size and Weight
Material

Most important from
2800 reviews

Size and Weight
Small, lightweight, and tough—perfect for camping in the wilderness.
Material
Quality made product that's very solid and folds as intended.

The DARTMOOR Camping Shovel is a versatile tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable companion for camping, hiking, and emergencies. At 24 inches in length and weighing 3.1 pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and functionality. Its foldable design ensures it can be easily packed and stored, making it suitable for backpacking or stowing in a car for emergency situations.

Constructed from heat-treated manganese steel, the shovel is durable and corrosion-resistant, able to handle tough tasks such as digging trenches, sawing branches, or breaking up ice. The carbon steel handle provides a sturdy grip, although users might find it slightly less comfortable during prolonged use due to its standard grip design.

One of the standout features is its fast-rotating locking system, which allows the user to quickly transform the tool from a shovel to a pickaxe or hoe. This multifunctionality can be a significant advantage for those who need a versatile tool in various outdoor settings. The saw edge of the shovel blade is particularly handy for cutting through tougher materials like branches or ice, adding to its utility in different scenarios. Despite its robust construction, the shovel remains lightweight and portable, further enhanced by its compact foldability and the included nylon carry bag.

Potential users should be aware that its compact nature might limit the volume of material moved in a single pass compared to larger shovels. Also, while its performance is well-rated with a customer satisfaction score of 4.4 out of 5 stars, the standard grip might not be as ergonomic as some other designs, which could affect comfort over extended periods. In summary, the DARTMOOR Camping Shovel is an excellent choice for those needing a multi-functional, durable, and portable tool for a variety of outdoor activities and emergency situations. Its versatility and build quality make it a top contender in the camping shovel category, particularly for users who value a balance between practicality and compactness.

Rating
8.2
Size and Weight
Material

Most important from
2800 reviews

Size and Weight
Small, lightweight, and tough—perfect for camping in the wilderness.
Material
Quality made product that's very solid and folds as intended.
#3

Suprock Survival Shovel High Carbon Steel Tactical Shovel Axe Folding Entrenching Tool Camping Hiking Shovel Carrying Pouch Car Emergency Survival Gear

Rating
7.9
Size and Weight
Material
Handle Design

Most important from
1051 reviews

Size and Weight
Portability is a major plus, with the folding design allowing for easy packing and carrying in the included pouch, making it ideal for backpacking trips.
Material
The Suprock Survival Shovel is exceptionally durable, able to withstand demanding outdoor conditions without compromising performance.
Handle Design
The ergonomic design and comfortable grip ensure efficient and controlled handling, minimizing fatigue during extended use.
Additional Features
Its versatility stands out, with the folding design and multiple functions making it capable of handling various tasks such as digging, chopping, and even breaking through ice.

The Suprock Military-Grade Survival Shovel is a versatile tool designed for camping, hiking, and emergency scenarios. Its high-carbon steel and stainless steel construction make it incredibly durable and capable of handling tough tasks. The shovel's ergonomic handle and foldable design enhance its portability and ease of storage, making it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

The adjustable handle lengths ranging from 16.92 to 39.37 inches offer flexibility for various uses, while the compact 10 x 7-inch carrying case ensures convenient transport. The 24-in-1 multifunctional design includes tools such as an axe, knife, saw, and compass, providing comprehensive support for a wide range of outdoor activities. This shovel can handle chopping, shoveling, cutting, sawing, digging, and more, making it a valuable asset for survival situations and everyday camping needs.

The product also comes with a lifetime replacement service, showcasing confidence in its durability and customer satisfaction. However, the shovel's weight of 5.13 pounds may be considered heavy for some users, potentially limiting its appeal for lightweight backpacking. Additionally, while its multifunctional nature is a strength, it may require familiarity with each tool for optimal use. The Suprock Military-Grade Survival Shovel stands out as a robust and versatile option for those seeking a reliable all-in-one tool for outdoor adventures and emergencies.

Rating
7.9
Size and Weight
Material
Handle Design

Most important from
1051 reviews

Size and Weight
Portability is a major plus, with the folding design allowing for easy packing and carrying in the included pouch, making it ideal for backpacking trips.
Material
The Suprock Survival Shovel is exceptionally durable, able to withstand demanding outdoor conditions without compromising performance.
Handle Design
The ergonomic design and comfortable grip ensure efficient and controlled handling, minimizing fatigue during extended use.
Additional Features
Its versatility stands out, with the folding design and multiple functions making it capable of handling various tasks such as digging, chopping, and even breaking through ice.

Buying Guide for the Best Camping Shovels

Choosing the right camping shovel can make a significant difference in your outdoor experience. A camping shovel is a versatile tool that can be used for digging fire pits, clearing debris, and even as a makeshift hammer. When selecting a camping shovel, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your needs and enhances your camping experience.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of a camping shovel are crucial factors to consider. A compact and lightweight shovel is easier to carry and pack, making it ideal for backpacking and hiking trips. However, a larger and heavier shovel may offer more durability and leverage for tougher digging tasks. If you plan to carry the shovel over long distances, opt for a smaller, lighter model. For car camping or situations where weight is less of a concern, a larger shovel may be more suitable.
MaterialCamping shovels are typically made from materials like steel, aluminum, or plastic. Steel shovels are the most durable and can handle heavy-duty tasks, but they are also heavier. Aluminum shovels are lighter and still quite strong, making them a good middle ground. Plastic shovels are the lightest and often the most affordable, but they may not be as durable for demanding tasks. Consider the type of camping you will be doing and choose a material that balances durability and weight according to your needs.
Handle DesignThe handle design of a camping shovel can affect its usability and comfort. Some shovels have straight handles, while others have ergonomic or folding designs. A straight handle is simple and sturdy, but an ergonomic handle can provide better grip and reduce hand fatigue. Folding handles are convenient for packing and storage but may have more moving parts that can break. Think about how you will be using the shovel and choose a handle design that offers the best combination of comfort and practicality.
Blade ShapeThe shape of the shovel blade can influence its effectiveness for different tasks. A pointed blade is great for digging into hard or rocky soil, while a flat blade is better for scooping and moving loose materials. Some shovels have serrated edges that can be used for cutting roots or small branches. Consider the types of tasks you will be performing and select a blade shape that matches those needs. A versatile blade with multiple features can be a good choice for general camping use.
Additional FeaturesMany camping shovels come with additional features such as built-in saws, bottle openers, or fire starters. These multi-functional tools can be very handy and save space in your camping gear. However, they can also add to the weight and complexity of the shovel. Evaluate which additional features are truly useful for your camping style and choose a shovel that offers the right balance of functionality and simplicity.

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