The 5 Best Camp Trowels of 2025 for Outdoor Adventures

It’s funny how just when you’re gearing up for your next adventure, you realize your old camp trowel might not cut it anymore. You want something tough, lightweight, and reliable—tools that won’t let you down out there.

Choosing the right trowel means balancing durability with convenience. There are some standout options this year that fit the bill perfectly. Keep this in mind—you might be surprised which one suits your needs best.

Coghlan’s Lightweight ABS Plastic Camping Trowel

When you’re out in the wilderness, a reliable digging tool can make all the difference. Coghlan’s Lightweight ABS Plastic Camping Trowel is designed to provide a practical solution for outdoor digging tasks without adding bulk to your gear. Its lightweight design lets you carry it comfortably on long hikes, ensuring you’re always prepared for campsite needs.

This camping trowel features an ergonomic, foldable handle that makes digging in tough or rocky soil easier and more controlled. The bright orange color helps you spot it quickly, preventing loss during your outdoor adventures. Its compact size strikes a balance between convenience and functionality, perfect for digging small trenches or cat holes.

Maintenance is simple thanks to the durable ABS plastic construction. It’s easy to clean after use and resistant to rust or corrosion, which often affects metal tools. While it’s sturdy enough for most campsite chores, it’s best suited for light to moderate digging tasks rather than heavy-duty excavation.

By supporting Leave No Trace principles, this trowel helps you minimize your impact on nature. It’s an efficient tool that enhances your outdoor experience through thoughtful design and practical features.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and backpackers who need a lightweight, easy-to-carry trowel for digging and campsite maintenance.

What We Like:

• Lightweight design at just 2 oz (55 g) for easy portability.
• Foldable handle offers better grip and control on uneven terrain.
• Bright orange color improves visibility and reduces the risk of loss.
• Durable ABS plastic resists rust and simplifies cleaning.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Coghlan’s
Dimensions	10.88 x 2.63 x 0.75 in
Weight	2 oz (55 g)
Material	High-impact ABS plastic
Color Options	Bright orange

TheTentLab R Deuce of Spades Ultralight Backpack Trowel (Three Sizes)

When you’re out in the wilderness, having a reliable tool can make all the difference. TheTentLab R Deuce of Spades Ultralight Backpack Trowel is designed to meet the needs of backpackers who want both durability and lightweight performance. Its clever design helps you dig waste holes quickly while avoiding obstacles like rocks and roots.

This trowel comes in three sizes, catering to those who prefer ultralight gear and those who need extra strength for tougher soil. The unique upside-down probing feature lets you check the ground before digging, reducing the chance of damage to your tools or delays in the field. Crafted from aerospace-grade 7075-T6 aluminum, it balances strength and weight without sacrificing comfort.

Maintenance is straightforward thanks to its anodized finish, which resists corrosion and ensures a smooth surface. This means you can keep it clean and functional with minimal effort during your adventures. Its design also multiplies digging power, making waste disposal easier and helping you follow Leave No Trace principles responsibly.

Whether you’re on a short hike or a long trek, this trowel offers a practical solution for outdoor sanitation. Its thoughtful construction and functionality improve your experience by combining efficiency with sustainability in the backcountry.

Best for: Backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a lightweight yet durable trowel for efficient and responsible waste disposal.

What We Like:

• Aerospace-grade 7075-T6 aluminum ensures strength and lightness.
• Innovative upside-down probing design prevents digging obstacles.
• Three size options suit various hiking and soil conditions.
• Anodized finish for easy cleaning and corrosion resistance.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	TheTentLab
Dimensions	Available in three sizes
Weight	Ultralight to moderate weights
Material	Aerospace-grade 7075-T6 aluminum
Color Options	Not specified

NACETURE Ultralight Aluminum Backpacking Trowel Multitool (Orange)

When you’re out in the wild, every ounce counts—and so does every tool. The NACETURE Ultralight Aluminum Backpacking Trowel Multitool (Orange) is crafted to give you reliable digging power without weighing you down. Its sharp edges and large scoop make breaking through hard ground, roots, and rocky soil easier, saving you time and effort.

This multitool’s ergonomic, longer handle fits comfortably in your hand, allowing quick and efficient digging. It’s designed especially for responsible outdoor use, perfect for tasks like digging catholes, clearing debris, or burying waste in line with Leave No Trace principles. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long treks or camping trips.

Maintenance is straightforward thanks to the rust-resistant aluminum construction. Simply clean the tool after use to keep it in good condition for many adventures. While aluminum isn’t as tough as steel, it strikes a balance between durability and portability, ideal for general digging needs rather than heavy-duty tasks.

The bright orange color enhances visibility, helping you locate the tool quickly, though it may not be ideal if you want to stay discreet in the wilderness. Overall, this multitool offers a smart combination of functionality and convenience, designed to support outdoor enthusiasts who value efficiency and responsible camping.

Best for: Ultralight backpackers and campers who need a dependable, lightweight digging tool that supports Leave No Trace outdoor ethics.

What We Like:

• Rust-resistant aluminum ensures long-lasting durability and easy maintenance
• Ergonomic handle enhances comfort and digging efficiency
• Compact design ideal for ultralight travel and quick tasks
• Supports environmentally responsible practices like cathole digging and waste burial
• Bright orange color for easy visibility in outdoor settings

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	NACETURE
Dimensions	Compact size (exact size not specified)
Weight	Ultralight (exact weight not specified)
Material	Rust-resistant aluminum
Color Options	Orange

NACETURE Ultralight Aluminum Backpacking Trowel Multitool (Black)

The NACETURE Ultralight Aluminum Backpacking Trowel Multitool (Black) is designed to make outdoor digging tasks easier without adding weight to your pack. Its lightweight aluminum construction ensures you can carry it comfortably during long hikes or camping trips. This tool tackles soil and roots effectively, helping you dig holes or clear debris quickly.

Its ergonomic handle offers a secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during use. The sharp edges and broad scoop are tailored to handle tough terrain, making campsite preparation or trail maintenance more efficient. Cleaning the trowel is simple—just rinse off dirt and dry to maintain its rust-resistant surface.

Compact and portable, this multitool fits neatly in your backpack, saving space without sacrificing performance. While it excels at digging and scooping, it’s best for medium-duty tasks and may bend under extreme pressure. This balance makes it ideal for hikers and survivalists who value durability without bulk.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts such as ultralight backpackers, hikers, campers, and survivalists who need a durable, lightweight, and versatile digging tool.

What We Like:

• Durable aluminum resists rust and corrosion for long-lasting use
• Lightweight, compact design fits easily into backpacks
• Sharp edges and large scoop enable efficient digging and debris clearing
• Ergonomic handle offers comfort during extended use

Specification:

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	NACETURE
Dimensions	Compact size (not specified)
Weight	Ultralight (exact weight not specified)
Material	High-quality aluminum
Color Options	Black

Ultralight Backpacking Trowel, 0.48 oz (13.5g) Blue

When you’re out in the wild, every ounce counts. The Ultralight Backpacking Trowel weighs just 0.48 oz (13.5g), making it incredibly easy to carry without adding bulk to your pack. Its lightweight design means you can dig with ease, whether you’re setting up a campsite or managing waste, without feeling weighed down.

This trowel is crafted to deliver reliable digging power despite its small size. The ergonomic end cap design lets you apply full force comfortably, reducing hand strain during extended use. Its durable construction ensures it holds up well during tough outdoor activities, though its size may limit use in very rocky or large digging tasks.

Maintenance is simple—just clean off dirt after use and store it in a dry place to keep the tool in good condition. Its minimalistic design focuses on essential functionality, making it a practical choice for ultralight backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts who value simplicity and efficiency.

The trowel is ideal for those who need a dependable, compact tool that won’t slow them down. While it may not replace larger multi-purpose tools, it excels as a lightweight, durable companion for quick digging jobs on the trail.

Best for: Backpackers and outdoor adventurers seeking a lightweight, durable, and ergonomic digging tool for everyday trail use.

What We Like:

• Weighs only 0.48 oz (13.5g), extremely easy to carry.
• Ergonomic end cap design for comfortable, powerful digging.
• Durable build suitable for typical trail digging needs.
• Simple maintenance with easy cleaning and storage.

Specification:

Feature	Details
Manufacturer	Not specified
Weight	0.48 oz (13.5g)
Material	Not specified
Color Options	Blue
Dimensions	Not specified

Factors to Consider When Choosing Camp Trowel

When choosing a camp trowel, you’ll want to focus on material durability and how lightweight it is for easy carrying. Consider the size and shape to ensure it fits your needs, along with a comfortable handle for extended use.

Don’t forget to look for multipurpose functionality to get the most out of your tool.

Material Durability

Because the material directly influences a camp trowel’s durability, choosing the right one guarantees it can handle tough soil, roots, and rocky terrain without bending or breaking. You’ll find high-impact plastics, aerospace-grade aluminum, and stainless steel offer the best resistance to wear and damage.

For example, ABS plastic is lightweight and impact-resistant but may weaken under prolonged UV exposure or extreme temperatures. Aluminum trowels, especially those made from aircraft-grade alloys, deliver excellent strength while resisting corrosion, perfect for rugged use.

Additionally, manufacturing processes like anodizing or tumbled finishing enhance surface durability, preventing scratches and corrosion. Selecting a trowel with these materials and treatments assures it stands up to demanding outdoor conditions and remains reliable on every adventure.

Weight and Portability

Balancing weight and portability plays a crucial role in choosing the right camp trowel for your outdoor adventures. You’ll want a trowel that weighs under 2 ounces to keep your pack light and your trek easier. Opt for compact designs that fold or collapse, letting you stow the tool efficiently without taking up much space.

Look for lightweight materials like aluminum or durable plastics—they offer strength without extra bulk. An ergonomic handle helps you dig comfortably and maintain control without adding weight. While size and shape are important, focus on a trowel that balances durability with minimal bulk to enhance portability without sacrificing functionality.

This way, you stay prepared without feeling weighed down on the trail.

Size and Shape

Although size and shape might seem like simple features, they directly impact how effectively you dig and how comfortable the trowel feels in your hand. Choose a size that matches the holes you plan to dig—typically between 6 and 10 inches long. A scoop-shaped blade lets you remove dirt quickly, while a pointed tip helps with narrow or tough spots.

If you’re an ultralight backpacker, consider a compact, foldable design for easy packing. The dimensions should give you enough leverage without tiring your hand during longer use. Some trowels come with ergonomic or contoured blades to boost grip and control, especially in hard soil or tricky terrain.

Picking the right size and shape guarantees you’ll dig efficiently and comfortably on your outdoor adventures.

Handle Comfort

A comfortable handle makes digging less tiring and lets you work longer without discomfort. When choosing a camp trowel, look for ergonomic designs with contours or textured grips that prevent slipping and give you better control. Handles made from lightweight materials keep your gear portable while ensuring comfort.

Opting for a longer handle can provide improved leverage, reducing strain on your wrist and arm during tough digging tasks. Additionally, a cushioned or soft grip can make a big difference, especially when you’re working in hard or rocky soil. Prioritizing handle comfort means less hand fatigue, so you can dig efficiently and enjoy your outdoor adventures without unnecessary pain or fatigue.

Multipurpose Functionality

While a comfortable handle makes digging easier, you’ll want a camp trowel that can tackle more than just basic scooping. Look for one designed to dig, trench, and pry, so you won’t need to carry extra tools. Features like probing tips and breaking edges help you handle different soil conditions effectively.

Choose materials like high-strength aluminum or durable plastic that stand up to tough outdoor tasks without bending or breaking. An ergonomic shape paired with versatile attachment points boosts the trowel’s adaptability for a variety of chores. Multi-purpose designs often combine scoops, prying edges, and probing tips to maximize usability, making your outdoor adventures more efficient and less cluttered.

Ease of Maintenance

Since you’ll rely on your camp trowel in various outdoor conditions, choosing one that’s easy to maintain will save you time and effort. Look for models made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or high-impact plastic, as these resist rust and clean up quickly.

Opt for smooth, rounded edges to prevent dirt from getting trapped in crevices, making cleaning simpler. A foldable or detachable handle also helps you reach all areas for thorough washing.

Lightweight, non-porous surfaces allow you to quickly wipe down or rinse your trowel after use, keeping it hygienic. Remember to inspect and clean your trowel regularly to avoid rust and bacterial buildup, ensuring it stays in top condition for every outdoor adventure.

Conclusion

With the right camp trowel in your pack, you’ll feel like a modern-day explorer carving paths through the wild. Whether you choose lightweight aluminum or durable plastic, these tools are your trusty sidekicks for every outdoor challenge.

Just like a pioneer relies on their compass, you’ll depend on your trowel to dig, probe, and keep your campsite clean. So gear up smartly, and let your adventures leave only footprints behind.