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 Gerber Gear Folding Spade E-Tool is crafted with durable materials, including an anodized aluminum shaft, boron carbon steel blade, and a glass-filled nylon handle. This combination offers high strength and durability, suitable for various outdoor environments. Its serrated blade edge adds versatility, allowing it to chop and saw roots effectively, making it useful not just for digging but also for other survival tasks.

The handle's open design provides a firm grip, enhancing leverage during use. The locking mechanism ensures stability, preventing accidental folding while in use, which is a crucial feature for safety and efficiency. Weighing around 2 pounds and having a compact size when folded (9.37 inches), it is portable and convenient to carry during camping or hiking. However, some users might find it slightly heavy compared to other similar products on the market.

The powder-coated steel head enhances durability but may require maintenance to prevent rust over time. The product is backed by Gerber's limited lifetime warranty, which shows the company's confidence in its quality. This folding spade is ideal for campers, hikers, hunters, and even gardeners, offering a reliable tool for various outdoor and gardening activities. Its compact design makes it easy to store and transport, yet some might find the folded dimensions still slightly bulky. In conclusion, the Gerber Gear Folding Spade E-Tool is a solid choice for anyone needing a durable, versatile, and portable camping shovel.

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.