The Backwoodsman Cookbook: 125 Recipes Inspired by the Outdoors

Learn about traditional and pioneer-style cooking with 125 timeless recipes from The Backwoodsman magazine that utilize classic techniques.

As a young child, Charlie Richie Jr. used to watch his father cook and preserve wild game--and fall in love with the Old Ways of Living. In 1979, Charlie Sr. was inspired to create The Backwoodsman magazine, with a mission to preserve and share timeless outdoor skills that will forever be relevant.

In The Backwoodsman Cookbook, Charlie Jr. collects 125 of the magazine's best backwoods-style recipes, written by seasoned craftspeople. This is your go-to guide for mastering traditional cooking. Designed for hunters, campers, and self-reliant cooks--as well as history enthusiasts--it offers step-by-step instructions using simple, accessible ingredients and classic techniques suited for open-flame cooking, Dutch ovens, and off-grid kitchens.

More than just a collection of recipes, this book preserves the culinary heritage of American pioneers and backwoods culture. It covers everything from hearty wild-game dishes and rustic sourdough breads to preservation methods like jerky, pickling, and drying. Whether you're preparing a meal in the wilderness or at home, The Backwoodsman Cookbook teaches practical skills, while delivering historical insight and timeless flavor.

If you're an avid outdoorsperson who loves cooking over an open flame or wants to make the most of a successful hunt, this is an essential book. If you can't start a campfire without dreaming of chili bubbling in a Dutch oven, you'll love this rugged collection of traditional recipes and practical food-preparation techniques for both beginners and experienced backwoods cooks.

Inside you'll find:

• 125 traditional recipes using wild game and basic staples


• Practical techniques for outdoor cooking and food preservation


• Illustrations that enhance the rustic feel and overall presentation

Charlie Richie Jr. is the owner and editor of The Backwoodsman. He was only 9 years old when his parents started the publication in 1979, so it's been a huge part of his life. Charlie officially started working for The Backwoodsman in 1995 and has served many roles, including associate publisher, special assignments editor, head of media relations, and advertising director. He has written numerous articles and feature interviews for the magazine. Charlie took over The Backwoodsman in January 2022. He lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he has also been a freelance outdoor TV producer for the past 15 years.