Guide To Camping Tables:
Camp Table Tips

Guide to camping tables: Portable camp tables range from nylon to roll tops, which will work best for you depends on how much room you need and how much work you need them to do.

Although most campgrounds offer picnic tables (can you imagine packing your own) sometimes it's nice to have your own just in case, or if you need the extra space.

Camping tables can vary from nylon fabric to wood coated with vinyl that roll up for easy transport. Since the wood doesn't "give" as much it makes for a steady work surface that doesn't tip as much so it's nice for glasses and plates. There are also roll-top wood camp tables that aren't coated in plastic, but I'd stick with the plastic coating as it makes clean-up much easier, it won't stain as easily, and small items won't slip through the cracks. Wood also makes a for a more solid surface for food preparation or laying out materials that you want to stay put and not slide toward the middle of the table like it could with a nylon table top that may fit too loosely.

Nylon can be nice though in that it folds down to a small area, just remember though the legs are still going to take up a bit of space, so depending on the size of the frame you may or may not save space over a roll-top table. If you want a smaller portable table though just big enough for a plate and a couple glasses take a look at REI's small Travel Chair Portable Table. Just don't try to get 16 people around this puppy. ;-)

There are also solid tables with flat tops that have legs that fold up or even tops that fold. While the solid top makes for a smooth work-surface these camping tables can be bulky and awkward to stow in your car with your camping equipment unless you've got some room to lay them flat or an area where you can slide them in sideways.

Northwest River Supplies Roll-A-Table is my first choice. The 10 pound Roll-A-Table supports up to 175 pounds and has a 32 x 32 inch table top. It also has a side pocket to keep your cooking utensils handy. And instead of trying to jam awkward square top camping tables into your car when you pack, these roll up into a neat 32 x 5.5 inch roll. Altrec has them if you're interested.