10 Best Folding Camping Shovels 2026 in the United States

The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel is a versatile and durable tool designed for various tasks, such as camping, off-road adventures, and gardening. Made from heavy-duty carbon steel, the shovel is strong and resistant to corrosion thanks to its black powder-coated finish. This makes it suitable for handling tough digging jobs in dirt, sand, mud, and snow.

Its 3-in-1 design, featuring a shovel, pickaxe, and pick hoe, is particularly useful for those who need a multi-functional tool in compact form. When extended, the shovel measures 22 inches, but it folds down to a compact size of 9 x 6 inches, making it highly portable and easy to store in the included carry case. Weighing only 2 pounds, it is lightweight and won't add much burden to your gear.

The blade length of 8.2 inches offers decent digging depth and leverage. This shovel is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable, multi-purpose tool that supports a family-owned American business with excellent customer service and lifetime replacement guarantee.

The PLACHIDAY folding camping shovel is a sturdy and compact tool designed for outdoor use like camping, hiking, and emergencies. Made from high-carbon steel, it promises durability and resistance to rust, which is useful if you plan to use it in different weather conditions, including snow. Weighing just 7.5 ounces, it’s light enough to carry comfortably without adding much bulk to your gear. When folded, it shrinks down to about 7.5 inches, making it easy to store in its included nylon bag.

Its blade is versatile, featuring a serrated edge that can help with cutting small branches, which is handy for setting up campfires. The triangular handle design offers a comfortable grip, and the shovel folds via an aluminum alloy screw that locks the blade securely in place, so you won’t have to worry about it collapsing during use. The folding mechanism is thoughtful, allowing the shovel to fold in three directions, which enhances portability.

At 18.5 inches long when open, it’s on the smaller side compared to some full-size shovels, which might limit digging depth or leverage for tougher tasks. The blade shape is practical but not specialized for heavy-duty digging or chopping. Also, the locking system relies on a screw nut, which might require occasional tightening. This shovel is suitable for campers, hikers, and survivalists who want a lightweight, multi-use tool that doesn’t take up much space. It may not be ideal for heavy-duty or prolonged digging but excels as a compact accessory for general outdoor and emergency use.

The Gerber Gear Dredge Portable Folding Shovel is a well-built tool made for camping, hiking, and survival. Its high carbon steel blade is powder-coated, ensuring durability and reliable performance under various weather conditions. The shovel is designed to be versatile, transitioning smoothly from a shovel to a hoe. The glass-filled nylon handle, accompanied by a rubber overmold grip, adds comfort and strength, while the aluminum core enhances the durability of this camping essential.

A major strength of the Gerber Dredge is its portability. Despite its full length of 45 inches when open, it folds down to a compact 25 inches, making it easy to carry. However, at 6.75 pounds, it might be considered heavy for some, especially for long hikes. The ergonomic handle design helps mitigate this by ensuring a comfortable grip even with prolonged use. The build quality is robust, capable of handling tough digging tasks at campsites, and is ideal for those who need a reliable tool that doesn't compromise on functionality or ease of use.

If you need a sturdy and reliable folding shovel and don't mind the extra weight, the Gerber Gear Dredge is a strong contender.