REI Camp Roll Table Review

Bottom Line

The REI Camp Roll Table is versatile and sturdy, and we used it for various activities throughout our camping season. We found that the 27-inch height was perfect for prepping food or enjoying a meal with the right chairs.

The heat-resistant aluminum slat top is lightweight and durable for hot pots and pans. It may scratch, but that doesn’t affect its durability, and it won’t get damaged in the rain.

We loved the utility hooks; they let us hang our coats and headlamps. The setup is easy with a frame that pulls out in one piece, and the tabletop easily snaps onto two lightweight, removable poles. Just be careful not to pinch your fingers when you close the frame back up during breakdown!

This table is a strong contender among other camp tables on the market. For more table options, check out our gear guide to best camp tables.

How We Tested

We spent a winter season car camping with this table and used it for gear storage, a small dinner table, and a prep station. It withstood snow, rain, and sand.

Stability & Durability

The stability of the REI Camp Roll Table is excellent. We set it up on various terrains including snow, dirt, gravel, and sand, and it remained steady without wobbling, regardless of what we placed on top.

The aluminum top scratches easily, but this does not affect its durability. It can withstand rain or snow. The poles snap into plastic connectors, which we initially questioned in terms of durability. However, we found that if the poles are inserted correctly, the plastic will hold up throughout the season.

Surface Area & Weight Capacity

The REI Camp Roll Table measures 27.6 inches from all sides, so it isn’t the largest table available, but it is enough to handle most activities for two people and definitely for one. We used it to stage gear in preparation for a day of hiking and to have a meal for two comfortably.

We also used it to cook, and with a two-burner stove, we could fit condiments and a few other items, but there was no space for prepping food.

Although we never fully loaded this table to its 100 lb weight capacity, we did add over fifty pounds of climbing gear, and the table didn’t move, even on unstable ground.

Portability

It was easy to carry the REI Camp Roll Table from the car to camp by its handle in the cylindrical, water-resistant canvas bag.

When folded, it measures 27.5 inches long and doesn’t pack down to a small size, but we found it simple to slide or squeeze between our other packed gear in the car. Weighing eight pounds, it is light to hold.

Height

At 27.5 inches tall and without adjustable legs, you need chairs of a certain height to use the REI Camp Roll Table as a dining table. Many basic camp chairs might be too short.

However, it’s a great height to use as a tailgate table for your truck, which is where we used it most. Otherwise, the height works well for cooking, prepping, or handling gear.

Ease of Setup

The REI Camp Roll Table can be set up in under a minute. It requires pulling from opposite ends to extend the base, snapping two tent-like poles onto the frame, and a quick roll-out of the tabletop to connect it to the poles.

Just be careful about pinch points when collapsing the frame for breakdown. 

Should You Buy the REI Camp Roll Table?

The REI Camp Roll Table is suitable for solo or two-person car campers, especially when you want to keep your gear minimal. It can be used with your truck’s tailgate or another flat surface you already have.

It offers excellent value for its durability and can handle most camping activities. If you have the right chair height, it can also serve as a wonderful workstation.

What Other Camp Tables Should You Consider?

Explore our gear guide, where we have tested various tables for every type of camper.

Coleman Roll-Top Aluminum Camping Table Review: This table is very similar, but it weighs a pound more and has a slightly lower weight capacity. However, it is also a few dollars cheaper and could be a more affordable choice for some. 

Portal Outdoors Quick Adjust Roll-Up Table Review: If you’re interested in something slightly larger, this table remains compact and lightweight but offers a bigger surface area.