Best Camping Shovels of 2025

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Camping shovels are an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast. They are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry in backpacks or attach to gear. These shovels are versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, such as digging fire pits, clearing campsites, and even digging latrines. Many camping shovels also come with additional features, such as saw blades and bottle openers, making them even more useful. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, a camping shovel is a must-have for any outdoor adventure.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel Cover #TOP 1
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel Cover #TOP 2
REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Set Cover #TOP 3
Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Set
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Camping Shovels

#TOP 1

RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel

NOVASAT-0409-1513-15
Black
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel Cover
RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick - Heavy Duty Carbon Steel Military Style Entrenching Tool for Off Road, Camping, Gardening, Beach, Digging Dirt, Sand, Mud & Snow.

The RHINO USA Folding Survival Shovel is a heavy-duty carbon steel military style entrenching tool designed for off-roading, camping, gardening, beach digging, and more. It features a tough pickaxe and sharp saw teeth, and folds into a 9" x 6" carry case for easy portability. Customers praise its sturdy construction and multi-functional use, though some note that it is not the most lightweight shovel for backpacking.

What We Like
Compact and easy to store
Sturdy steel construction
Includes a pick for tough tasks
Comes with a durable carrying case
Versatile for various uses
What We Don't Like
Somewhat small for larger projects
Not made in the USA
#TOP 2

REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel

rc20022
Green
REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel Cover
REDCAMP 23" Military Folding Camping Shovel w/Cover,Portable Shovel with High Manganese Steel, Tactical Entrenching Tool Tri-fold Handle Shovel for Camping Hiking Sand Mud Snow Beach, Green 2.5Lbs

The REDCAMP Military Folding Camping Shovel is a multi-functional tool made from 50# High-Carbon steel and a comfortable triangular handle. It is ideal for camping, hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, and gardening outdoor activities. It folds up small and comes with a carrying pouch, making it easy to transport. Customers have praised its versatility, durability, and affordability.

What We Like
Sturdy and well-built
Compact and lightweight
Versatile with multiple configurations
Effective for outdoor activities
Great value for the price
What We Don't Like
Carrying case feels cheap
Paint chips over time
#TOP 3

Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Set

Black
Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Set Cover
Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Shovel Set with High Carbon Steel Camping Gear for Men Outdoor Caming Hiking Backpacking Emergency

The Camping Shovel Axe Outdoor Survival Shovel Set is a 28-in-1 survival tool set that includes a shovel, flashlight, saw, axe, hoe, hexagon wrench, scissors, multi-function tools, bottle opener, screw set, compass, whistle, hunting knife, and more. The shovel is made from hardened, heat-treated military solid carbon steel, and the hatchet is made from a strong mix of chromium and high carbon steel. The extended back shovel can reach up to 40.1 inches, making it suitable for camping, backpacking, hiking, off-roading, fishing, emergency, and gardening. Customers have praised the quality of the axe head and shovel, but have noted that the other parts are cheaply made, including the case itself.

What We Like
Sturdy and reliable knife
Solid and durable shovel
Well-designed extended poles
Comprehensive and versatile toolset
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Case may not last long
Short screwdriver bits
#TOP 4

AugTouf 18'' Military Folding Camping Shovel

AU0080002
Olive
18.1 x 4.7"
AugTouf 18'' Military Folding Camping Shovel Cover
18'' Military Folding Camping Shovel, Offroad Survival High Carbon Steel Shovel (Olive) AugTouf by toolant

The AugTouf 18'' Military Folding Camping Shovel is a lightweight, versatile tool perfect for camping, gardening, entrenching, hiking, backpacking, and car emergencies. Made of 50# high-carbon steel, it is rust-resistant and anti-deformation, with a triangular large handle design that is anti-slip and reduces hand fatigue and wrist strain. It folds up compactly into a small bag and comes with a heavy-duty nylon case with a loop backside and sponge inside. AugTouf offers a 90-day hassle-free warranty policy.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Durable construction
Compact for storage
Easy to use
Versatile for various tasks
What We Don't Like
Smaller than expected
Not 'survival' quality
#TOP 5

DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel

OMS-201G-BK
Black
18.1"
DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel Cover
DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel High Carbon Steel, Portable Lightweight Outdoor Tactical Survival Foldable Mini Shovel, Entrenching Tool, Camping, Hiking, Digging, Backpacking, Car Emergency

The DARTMOOR Mini Folding Shovel is a rugged, heat-treated, high-carbon steel tool that is perfect for digging, shoveling, sawing, chopping, and entrenching. It is ergonomically designed with an 11.8” handle and 6.3” x 4.7” shovelhead, and comes with a nylon carry case for easy portability. It is a must-have for backyards, gardens, campers, forest rangers, and outdoorsmen.

What We Like
Compact and easy to use
Durable under various conditions
Affordable price point
Versatile for multiple tasks
What We Don't Like
Handle could be larger
Smaller than expected size
#TOP 6

SOG Entrenching Tool

SOG
F08-N
black
18-1/4-inch
SOG Entrenching Tool Cover
SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N)

The SOG Entrenching Tool is a lightweight, foldable shovel designed for outdoor, hunting, and military use. It features a wood saw edge to cut or chop small branches and trees, and a high-carbon steel construction to handle extreme conditions. The shovel folds down to 10 inches in length, making it easy to pack and take up minimal space in a backpack or camp kit. It also features a 3-way folding design, with a rotating spade blade that can be adjusted to act as a pick or hoe.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
Versatile with multiple functions
Durable high-quality materials
Sturdy and comfortable grip
Included carrying pouch for convenience
What We Don't Like
Heavier than expected
Smaller than traditional entrenching tools
#TOP 7

PLACHIDAY Folding Camping Shovel

FCS-185
Black
size 3
PLACHIDAY Folding Camping Shovel Cover
PLACHIDAY Digging Shovel, 18.5'' Lightweight Camping Shovel Portable High Carbon Steel Folding Mini Shovel for Outdoor Camping Backpacking Hiking Car Emergency Home Garden

The PLACHIDAY Folding Camping Shovel is a versatile and compact tool that is perfect for all your outdoor needs. Its compact structure and high performance make it ideal for emergency situations, camping, gardening, and yard work. The shovel is made of high carbon steel material, ensuring its strength, durability, and rust resistance. With its collapsible and portable design, it can be easily folded and stored in the included nylon bag. The triangular handle design provides a good grip and the serrated cutting edge is useful for cutting small branches while camping. This folding shovel is a must-have for survivalists, campers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. With 24-hour customer support, any issues with the shovel will be promptly addressed. Stay prepared and tackle any outdoor task with the PLACHIDAY Camping Shovel.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight
Sturdy construction
Good for various terrains
Easy to store
Great for beach use
What We Don't Like
Flimsy handle design
Not suitable for heavy-duty use
#TOP 8

Crescent Moon Collapsible Snow Shovel

CMShovelO
Orange/Black
Crescent Moon Collapsible Snow Shovel Cover
Crescent Moon Compact Collapsible Shovel: Lightweight Portable Shovel for Camping, Emergencies, Cars, Backcountry Adventures, ATVs & Snowmobiles – Essential Small Emergency Avalanche Shovel

The Crescent Moon Snow Shovel is a compact and lightweight tool that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and motorists who like to be prepared for any situation. Weighing just over 1 lb, this collapsible shovel can be easily carried and is adjustable in length, ranging from 20 to 33 inches. With three different fixed sizing options, you can customize it to the most suitable length for your needs. The ergonomic design, featuring a straight handle and D grip, allows for easy adjustment of the pushing angle, making it effortless to throw snow, rocks, or mud. Whether you are snowshoeing, hiking, backpacking, camping, or engaging in other outdoor activities, the Crescent Moon Snow Shovel is a versatile tool that offers convenience and reliability.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact design
Robust construction
Versatile for various uses
Aesthetically pleasing color
Adjustable size for convenience
What We Don't Like
Small scoop capacity
Deployment can be fiddly
#TOP 9

Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp Shovel

SPTZSHVL
Trench Shovel
One Size
Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp Shovel Cover
Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp Shovel Tool for Camping, Survival and Outdoors, Trench Shovel

The Cold Steel Spetsnaz Tactical Camp Shovel, also known as the Cold Steel Camp Shovel, is a versatile tool designed for camping, survival, and outdoor activities. Modeled after the original Soviet "Spetsnaz" military entrenching tool, this shovel features a stout hardwood handle, a broad flat steel blade, and three sharp edges. With its durable construction, it is ideally suited for digging foxholes and bunkers, chopping branches, building shelters, acting as an improvised paddle, and even serving as a last-resort weapon. Additionally, it can be used as an excellent alternative to a Tomahawk for sport and recreational throwing. With its enhanced size, being 50% longer in length and having a slightly larger shovel head, the Cold Steel Camp Shovel offers the winning features of the Special Forces model, providing convenience and reliability for all your outdoor needs.

What We Like
Versatile multi-functional tool
Durable carbon steel construction
Compact and portable design
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Reliable in emergency situations
What We Don't Like
No included carrying case
#TOP 10

Yeacool Folding Shovel Camping Tool

Yeacool Folding Shovel Camping Tool Cover
Yeacool Folding Shovel, (24.21'') Camping Shovel, Survival Off Road E Tool Shovel, with Pickaxe, Portable Bag, High Carbon Steel, for Digging, Backpacking, Hiking, Gardening, Emergency, Outdoor

The Yeacool Folding Shovel Camping Tool is a lightweight, multi-functional tool that can be used for digging, gardening, cutting, and more. It features a modular design that includes segmented tubes for storing small items, and comes with a canvas storage bag for easy carrying. This tool is a great gift idea for outdoor enthusiasts including campers, hikers, hunters, and fishermen. Yeacool offers excellent customer service and fixes any issues quickly.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact
Sturdy and well-built
Multiple hidden tools
Excellent customer service
Good for metal detecting
What We Don't Like
Small shovel head
Short handle length
Buying Guide Image

What to Look for in Camping Shovels

Introduction

When it comes to camping, having the right gear is crucial. One essential piece of equipment is a camping shovel. A good shovel can come in handy for a variety of tasks, such as digging a latrine, shoveling snow, or even chopping wood. But with so many different shovels on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs?

Consider Your Needs

Before shopping for a shovel, it's important to think about what you'll be using it for. If you're planning on doing a lot of backpacking, weight and portability will be a major factor in your decision. In this case, a compact, foldable shovel might be your best option. On the other hand, if you're car camping and weight isn't as much of an issue, you can opt for a larger, sturdier shovel.

Material

Another important factor to consider is the material of the shovel. The most common materials are aluminum and steel. Aluminum shovels are lightweight and durable, but they may not be as strong as steel shovels. Steel shovels, on the other hand, are more durable and can handle tougher tasks, but they tend to be heavier.

Size and Shape

When it comes to size and shape, there are a few options to choose from. The most common is the standard shovel, which has a long handle and a rectangular blade. This type of shovel is versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks. Another option is a folding shovel, which has a compact design and can be easily stored in a backpack. Finally, there are military-style shovels, which are designed for digging trenches and other demanding tasks.

Additional Features

Some shovels come with additional features that can be useful in certain situations. For example, some shovels have a serrated edge on the blade, which can be useful for cutting through roots or ice. Others have a built-in pick, which can be useful for breaking up hard ground.

Price

Finally, price is always a factor when shopping for camping gear. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, it's important to remember that a quality shovel can last for many years, so it's worth investing in a durable, well-made shovel.

Conclusion

Choosing the right camping shovel can make a big difference on your trip. By considering your needs, the material and size of the shovel, and any additional features, you can find the perfect shovel for your next camping adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should I take a shovel camping?

Yes, it is recommended to take a shovel when camping. A camping shovel has multiple uses, including digging holes for various purposes like defecation or creating a fire pit, moving embers in a campfire, digging a rain trench around the tent, leveling ground for pitching a tent, and for off-roading mishaps.

2. Are folding shovels any good?

Yes, folding shovels are a good option for camping. They are compact and easy to store in small areas. They provide all the features of non-folding shovels and are ideal for moving sand, dirt, or snow. Some folding shovels are even used by the military for fieldwork.

3. How much does a camping shovel weigh?

Most camping shovels weigh between 1.5 to 2.5 pounds. If you're backpacking, a lighter shovel is preferable. However, if you're car camping, the extra pound won't be too much of a bother.

4. What type of shovel is best for dirt?

For digging holes in all types of ground, a round point shovel is best. Its rounded tip allows for hole digging without damaging the surrounding area. It has a wide scoop that can hold plenty of dirt. Another popular type is the square point shovel, which is used for transferring loose material.

5. Is a shovel good for self-defense?

While a survival shovel can be used for self-defense in emergency situations, it is important to note that it is not designed as a weapon and may not be as effective as other self-defense tools.

6. What are the three types of shovels?

The three most commonly used shovels are the pointed spade for digging, the rounded spade for planting, and the square tip shovel for transferring loose material. Each type is designed for specific tasks.

7. Is a plastic or aluminum scoop shovel better?

Plastic shovels are advantageous as snow does not typically stick to them due to their non-stick coating. They are also less likely to bend or warp. However, a concern with plastic shovels is that they may break or snap. Aluminum scoop shovels are durable but may require more effort to prevent snow from sticking.

8. What is the lightest transfer shovel?

The Black Diamond Transfer LT is the lightest UIAA certified shovel available, weighing 405 grams.

9. How heavy is a shovel full of wet snow?

According to a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association, a shovel full of heavy wet snow weighs an average of 16 pounds.

Editor's Notes

During our camping shovel research, we found 24 camping shovel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 141,905 customer reviews through our big data system to write the camping shovels list. We found that most customers choose camping shovels with an average price of $24.75.

The camping shovels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of camping shovels, including Rhino USA, REDCAMP, HUZSV, AugTouf, DARTMOOR. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.

Camping Shovels Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Rhino USA REDCAMP HUZSV AugTouf DARTMOOR SOG PLACHIDAY CRESCENT MOON Cold Steel Yeacool
Material Carbon Steel Alloy Steel High Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel Carbon Steel Alloy Steel High Carbon Steel Aluminum Hardwood, Medium Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel
Color Black Green Black Olive Black black Black Orange/Black Trench Shovel 24 inch Shovel Black
Item Weight 2 Pounds 2.42 pounds 0.02 Kilograms 25 Ounces 1.74 pounds 24.5 Ounces 7.5 Ounces 1.14 Pounds 36.3 Ounces 1.35 Pounds
Item dimensions L x W x H 8.2 x 5 x 23 inches 8 x 6 x 23 inches - 7.87 x 5.11 x 2.75 inches 18.1 x 5.1 x 2 inches 12 x 9 x 3 inches 6 x 3 x 2 inches 20 x 8 x 2 inches 30 x 10.4 x 1.6 inches 24.21 x 4.33 x 1.15 inches
Style Military E-Tool Multi-purpose - Portable Portable Entrenching Tool Modern Adjustable,Bag,Outdoor Spetsnaz Shovel 24'' Folding Survival Shovel
Handle Material Carbon Steel Carbon Steel - High Carbon Steel, Carbon Steel Carbon Steel Wood High Carbon Steel Aluminum Wood (American Hickory) High Carbon Steel
Blade Material Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel - Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel Aluminum Medium Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel
Is Foldable -
Grip Type Ergonomic Ergonomic - rubberized Ergonomic - Ergonomic Ergonomic wood Ergonomic
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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