Dutch Oven Cook-off at Cathedral Gorge
Get ready to fire up the coals and bring your best recipes for the annual Dutch Oven Cook-Off at Cathedral Gorge State Park in Panaca on April 25! This crowd-favorite event invites cooks of all skill levels to compete for prizes in four delicious categories: bread, dessert, main course, and vegetable or side dish. A panel of judges will crown the winners, while event guests will cast their votes for the People's Choice Award.
All dishes must be prepared on-site using a Dutch oven the day of the event, so come ready with your ingredients, gear, and competitive spirit. Cooks are welcome to compete in multiple categories. Pre-registration is free and encouraged. All you have to do is sign up in advance using the online form. Day-of entries are welcome for $5 per dish (cash only). Cooking kicks off at 1 p.m., with tastings beginning around 5:30 p.m.
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Cathedral Gorge State Park, Group Use Area
Need to Know
- Pets not allowed
- Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- All cooking must be done in a Dutch oven on site the day of the event. Entrants are responsible for providing all food and supplies needed for preparation of the entry.
- Pre-registered entries do not require a fee; day of entries will be charge $5 per entry. Cash only.
- Cooking starts at 1 pm. Food tasting begins around 5:30pm.
What to Bring
- Water
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Sun protection
- An appetite
What to Expect
- Tasting delicious food cooked from a dutch oven
- Voting for your favorite dish to crown the People's Choice Award
- Easy to moderate activity level
Fees & Registration
- Taste-Testing Plate is $5 per person over the age of 12 years of age
- Cooking entries are free with pre-registration. Day-of entries are welcome for $5 per dish (cash only)
- For event guests: Standard park entrance/camping fees $5/25 for Nevada residents and $10/30 for non-residents
- Pre-register as a cook by filling out the form at: https://lincolncountynevada.com/events/spring-events/dutch-oven-cookoff-2/
Contact:
This program is hosted by Cathedral Gorge State Park in cooperation with Lincoln County Authority of Tourism.
Dawn Andone
Park Interpreter
cgsp@parks.nv.gov
775-684-2793
Nevada State Parks is committed to providing accessible experiences for all visitors. If you need a reasonable communication accommodation to participate in this event, please contact the park or event coordinator no later than 10 days in advance so we have time to work with you and support your visit.