Best 19 Coleman Charcoal Grills: Smoky Flavor for Your Next BBQ

Grilling season is heating up, and nothing beats the rich, smoky flavor of charcoal-cooked food. Our carefully selected Coleman charcoal grills deliver lasting performance with impressive features for both casual backyard barbecuers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

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Louisiana Grills 13" Kamado Charcoal Grill

This 13" ceramic Kamado grill packs impressive cooking power into a compact package, hitting temperatures up to 700°F for searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs. The lump charcoal and wood pellet smoking system delivers complex flavors without artificial additives. With 95 square inches of cooking space and premium features like polished stainless steel slides and solid wood shelves, it's a high-quality grill that makes an affordable statement.

Coleman Party Pail Charcoal Grill

This handy party grill packs flat for easy transport and flips up to reveal a spacious cooking area. Made for lasting use with rust-resistant chrome plating, it's perfect for serving up hot dogs, chicken, and veggies at beaches, picnics, or tailgates - everything from 8 hot dogs to chicken breasts fits neatly inside.

Coleman Party Ball Charcoal Grill

This compact charcoal grill from Coleman pairs a stylish chrome finish with durable stainless steel construction for outdoor cooking on the go. The portable kettle design features a lockable lid and adjustable air vents for even heating, while the included charcoal pan makes lighting easy. Perfect for small gatherings or weekend barbecues, it's a practical choice for backyard cooking or camping trips.

Coleman Party Pail Charcoal Grill

This handy barbecue bucket packs a surprising punch for its size, with a generous 82 square inch cooking space that serves up delicious results whether you're grilling on the beach, by the campfire, or simply adding some outdoor cooking to your weekend plans. The compact design makes it perfect for tossin' in the car trunk or RV for spur-of-the-moment cookouts, while the easy-to-clean removable charcoal tray and folding handle keep cleanup a breeze.

Coleman Roadtrip 285 Portable Stand-up Propane Grill

At first glance, you might think the Coleman Roadtrip 285 is just another portable grill. But looks can be deceiving. With its three independently adjustable burners and 20,000 BTUs of power, this thing cooks like a pro. The best part? Setting it up is a breeze - the wheels roll out and the legs pop up in seconds. You'll love the water pan that catches all that tasty cooking grease, and the side tables are perfect for keeping your utensils handy. It's like having a full kitchen at your campsite!

Cuisinart Portable Charcoal Grill

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This portable charcoal grill packs big flavor into a surprisingly compact package, measuring just 14 inches tall and 14.6 inches wide. The enamel-coated firebox and ash catcher make cleanup a breeze, while the dual venting system lets you master both low-and-slow and high-heat cooking. Whether you're tailgating at the game or camping in the woods, this grill's three secure lid locks keep your meal safe and your hands free.

Dyna-Glo Compact Charcoal Grill

The Dyna-Glo Compact Charcoal Grill packs impressive cooking capacity into a surprisingly small package - 250 square inches of grilling surface handles up to twelve 4-inch burgers or two whole chickens. The matte enameled cast iron grates give your food that coveted restaurant-sear, while the adjustable side dampers let you dial in the perfect cook temperature. Rolling along on stable resin wheels, this grill makes quick work of outdoor meals without taking over your patio space.

Coleman NXT 200 Portable Electric Grill

The Coleman NXT 200 portable grill packs a surprising amount of cooking power into its relatively compact frame, with 20,000 BTUs of intense heat across 321 square inches of grilling surface – enough to cook 18 burgers at once. It's built for serious outdoor cooking, with a durable welded-steel construction and handy features like foldable legs and a built-in table.

Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill

The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker combines professional-grade cooking performance with surprisingly manageable weight. Its triple-walled insulation keeps temperatures steady, from smoking low and slow to blasting 700° for searing perfection. The folding metal shelves and cast-iron cooking surface make it a breeze to handle, whether you're grilling a quick dinner or hosting a backyard BBQ.

Coleman Roadtrip X-Cursion Propane Grill

This portable grill collapses for easy transport and features durable steel legs with oversized wheels that roll over any terrain. The cast iron grills provide ample cooking space for family meals, while the independent burners deliver consistent heat. The drip-catching design reduces clean-up time, making it a practical choice for both backyard use and camping trips.

Char-Griller Portable Charcoal Grill

The Char-Griller Portable Grill transforms your favorite barrel grill into a versatile cooking system, perfect for backyard barbecues or camping trips. Its compact design keeps cooking simple with 250 square inches of grill space, while the easy-to-clean ash pan makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you're searing steaks or smoking ribs, the dual dampers help you master the perfect temperature for your next grilled masterpiece.

Cuisinart 16-inch Portable Charcoal Grill

The Cuisinart portable grill combines convenient design elements like a locking lid and dual venting system with practical features such as an ash catcher beneath the fire bowl. Standing just over 7 inches tall, its compact frame makes it ideal for tailgating or camping trips where space is limited. The 200-square-inch cooking grate provides generous surface area for backyard grill dates or small gatherings, while the lightweight construction allows for easy transport via the included carrying handles.

Coleman RoadTrip Griddle

From pancakes in the morning to steaks at night, this portable griddle does it all with its spacious 19-inch cooking surface and even heat distribution. Rolling carbon steel construction and built-in wheels make it a breeze to move around your campsite or carry through the park. The best part? Cleanup's a snap with the detachable grease tray that slides under the side table.

Coleman Deluxe Camp Grill

The Coleman Deluxe Camp Grill brings a practical upgrade to outdoor cooking, with its stable stand design that works over campfires or folded flat for storage. Built from durable nickel-plated steel, it provides plenty of cooking space for meals like burgers, vegetables, and grilled cheese sandwiches. The compact grill has earned praise from users for its simple design and reliable performance.

Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Charcoal Kamado Gray

The Char-Griller Akorn Jr. packs impressive cooking power into a portable package that handles everything from quick burgers to slow-smoked chicken with ease. Its triple-wall steel construction holds heat like a ceramic grill, allowing you to sear steaks at 650 degrees one night and smoke pork overnight the next. The compact design, weighing just 40 pounds, makes it perfect for tailgating, camping, or backyard barbecues where space is limited.

Coleman Roadtrip 225 Portable Propane Tabletop Grill

The Coleman Roadtrip 225 packs big grilling power into a surprisingly compact package – perfect for tailgating or camping. With its sturdy cast-iron grates and elegant porcelain coating, it creates flavor-packed meals while keeping cleanup surprisingly simple. Two independently adjustable burners give you precise temperature control, whether you're searing steaks or simmering sauces.

Coleman PerfectFlow Portable Camp Propane Grill

This versatile Coleman grill brings convenient cooking to any outdoor adventure with its dual-burner design that lets you cook on both sides simultaneously. The removable grate and aluminized cooktop make cleanup a breeze, while windblock panels protect your cooking surfaces from gusts. Whether you're camping in the wilderness or grilling in your backyard, this portable stove delivers reliable performance with consistent heat distribution.

Coleman Portable Propane Grill

The Coleman Camp Propane Grill packs impressive cooking power into a surprisingly compact package. With its 180-square-inch surface and 11,000-BTU burner, it grills faster and more evenly than you might expect from a portable unit. The included WindBlock system cleverly doubles as side tables, while the dishwasher-safe grate and grease management tray make cleanup a breeze. Perfect for tailgating or camping, this durable grill has enough features to satisfy most outdoor cooking needs without sacrificing simplicity.

Coleman Roadtrip Instastart Propane Party Grill

This compact propane grill from Coleman packs impressive cooking power into an ultralight design perfect for camping trips or emergency situations. The stamped steel grate delivers even heat for versatile cooking, from searing steaks to making s'mores. Its clever Instastart ignition system makes lighting a breeze, and the portable design lets you cook anywhere you can find a flat surface.

Buyer's Guide

A Coleman charcoal grill combines affordability with reliable performance, making it a popular choice for outdoor cooking. Understanding the key features and considerations will help you select the right model for your needs.

Capacity and Cooking Surface

The grill's capacity and cooking surface determine how much food you can cook at once. Consider your cooking needs - smaller models are ideal for occasional use or single servings, while larger grills accommodate multiple dishes for gatherings.

Build Quality and Durability

Invest in a grill with a sturdy steel construction and weather-resistant materials. The charcoal grate and cooking surface should be made from durable metal that can withstand frequent use and outdoor elements.

Convenience Features

Look for models with easy-start ignition systems, such as push-button or charcoal chimney starters. Additional features like grease management systems, ash pans, and portability options enhance cooking convenience and cleanup.

Performance and Temperature Control

A quality Coleman grill maintains consistent heat and allows precise temperature control. Features like multiple burners or adjustable heat zones enable you to cook diverse meals, from grilled meats to vegetables.

FAQ

Which Coleman charcoal grill is right for me?

Coleman offers several charcoal grill models, each with different capacities and features. The classic Coleman Classic King is ideal for small to medium gatherings, while the larger Coleman Camp King suits bigger groups or family camping trips. Consider your space and cooking needs to choose the right size.

Key features to consider include cooking surface area, heat control options, and portability. The Classic King has a 215-square-inch cooking area with two adjustable cooking grates, while the Camp King offers 375 square inches across three tiers of grilling space.

How do I light a Coleman charcoal grill?

Start by placing charcoal briquettes in the grill's fire bowl, leaving about 1 inch of space between them. Crumple a couple of newspaper pages and place them under the charcoal. Light the newspaper and let the charcoal heat up for 20-30 minutes, until covered in white ash.

Always light coals on the side away from cooking grate to avoid burns. Use a long match or charcoal chimney starter for easier lighting. Allow coals to heat fully before placing food on the grill.

What maintenance do Coleman charcoal grills need?

After each use, clean food residue and ash from the cooking grate and fire bowl. Store grills covered when not in use to protect against weather damage. Check legs and hardware for stability before each use.

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the grease drip pan monthly and replacing the lid gasket every 2-3 years if it shows signs of cracking or wear. A clean, well-maintained grill will extend its lifespan and perform better.

How long does a Coleman charcoal grill last?

With proper maintenance, a Coleman charcoal grill typically lasts 5-7 years. Key factors affecting longevity include how often you use it, storage conditions, and how well you maintain the grill.

The cooking grate usually lasts the longest, while the lid and fire bowl show the most wear over time. Regular cleaning and protecting from the elements can significantly extend a grill's lifespan.

Can I use charcoal starters with Coleman grills?

Coleman grills are designed to work with standard charcoal briquettes and charcoal starters. They will function perfectly fine with chimney starters, electric starters, or charcoal lighter fluid.

If using lighter fluid, wait at least 15 minutes after lighting before placing food on the grill to allow fumes to dissipate. Always follow safety guidelines when using charcoal starters.

What size coals do Coleman grills use?

Coleman grills typically use standard charcoal briquettes measuring 2-3 inches in diameter. Most grills are designed to accommodate multiple bags of these standard-sized briquettes.

For optimal performance, use one full bag of briquettes (usually 10-12 pounds) per cooking session. Avoid overloading the grill to maintain proper air flow and consistent cooking temperature.

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