GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540+ Camp Stove Review
Dual burner camp stove that performs in cold weather conditions
November 25th, 2025
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Our verdict
The GSI Selkirk 540+ is an overall efficient and sturdy stove. Although it lacks extra accessories or stand-out features, it is a workhorse of a stove that has fed myself, groups of students, friends, and family for nearly four years.
It is an ideal car camping stove, especially for beginner cooks and those cooking more straightforward recipes due to how hot it can burn. I’ve used the dual-burner stove for large groups, making hot cocoa at late night campfires for teenagers, and for myself and my partner–cooking everything from breakfast burritos to ramen.
Over the years, the ignitor on the stove has become inconsistent, but the overall performance and reliability along with comparable price with other mid-range stoves makes the Selkirk 540+ a solid stove for most car campers and picnickers.
GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540+ Camp Stove
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GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540+ Camp Stove Specifications
Burners: Dual 14,000 BTU regulated burners
Boil Time: 3 minutes (1L water)
Weight: 10 lbs
Packed Dimensions: 21.4" x 12.9" x 3.8"
Open Dimensions: 21.4" x 12.9" x ~6"
Fuel: 16 oz propane canisters
Temperature Range: Regulated performance for cold weather use
Included: Pot supports, windscreens, carrying handle, regulator adapter
Features: Piezo ignition, precise flame control, removable grates
Price: $150
Comparison table
| CAMPING STOVE | MSRP* | FUEL TYPE | BURNERS | HEAT OUTPUT (per burner) | DIMENSIONS | WEIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GSI Outdoors Selkirk 540+ Camp Stove | $180 | Propane | 2 | 14,000 BTU | 21.4" x 12.9" x 3.8" | 10 lbs |
| Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System | $450 | Propane | 2 | 10,000 BTU | 10.3" x 7.2" | 9 lbs, 2 oz |
| Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Camp Stove | $275 | Propane | 2 | 12,000 BTU | 22.0" x 13.2" x 3.7" | 14 lbs, 12.8 oz |
| GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Pro 2 Burner Stove | $200 | Propane | 2 | 11,000 BTU | 20.0" x 12.4" x 1.4" | 11 lbs |
Who is it for?
Car campers seeking powerful dual-burner performance for group cooking
Families needing space for two large pots or pans simultaneously
Groups wanting reliable high-heat output for consistent boiling and searing
Users seeking compact storage in slim 3.8" profile for vehicle packing
Budget-conscious campers wanting premium features at mid-range pricing
Those willing to carry backup ignition due to piezo reliability concerns
How we tested
Micro-control valves enable precise heat adjustment from simmer to boil
The GSI Selkirk 540+ was a gift, requested on my wedding registry in 2021. Previously I had primarily cooked using the open flame of a campfire combined with the small Snowpeak backpacking stove I used for both car-camping and backpacking. Since then, the GSI Selkirk 540+ has been tested throughout the Western United States.
We used it on our honeymoon car camping trip, traveling from California up through the Pacific Northwest. We used it heavily in the summer of 2024 (our first summer living in Idaho) and it has boiled water in snowy early winter conditions, cooked meals in early season snowstorms in Wyoming, and in windy climates. We’ve tested the Selkirk 540+ in 20F and 30F degree temperatures, and found it to perform effectively even in the colder temperatures.
We have fed as few as two people and as many as 35 (with supplemental stoves) with the Selkirk. The two 14,000 BTU powered burners have been sufficiently strong for boiling water and keeping a simmer going for long periods of time.
What we liked
When ignited, consistent high heat output
Strong ability to hold a rolling boil
Solid wind protection
Easy to carry and relatively light
What could be better
Inconsistent piezo ignitor
Burns high and hot
Temperature control dial could be more precise
Features
Powerful dual-burner performance
Independent controls allow simultaneous cooking at different heat levels.
With two burners, each with their own temperature control dials, you can cook at different heat levels. As someone who includes a tortilla with every meal I cook, the ability to warm one on a skillet while cooking my main dish on the other burner is invaluable.
Each burner handles 8-10” pots and pans with stable support.
The Selkirk’s cooking grate is stable, close enough to the burners themselves for the flame to transfer easily to the 8-10” pots and pans that can be placed above it. The distance is also not so close that it’s difficult to clean. Even on somewhat uneven surfaces or when bumped into at the campsite, cookware feels stable and supported.
High-heat output suitable for searing, stir-frying, and rapid cooking.
At 14,000 BTUs per burner, the Selkirk 540+ emits a high heat output that makes for great searing and rapid cooking. Once lit, the flames burn strong and consistently which is ideal for frying, broiling, grilling, and sautéing a variety of meals.
Precise heat control system
Independent operation prevents heat transfer between burners.
The burners operate independently and can be used one at a time or together, and each can be set to reach different temperatures without affecting the other.
Slim and portable design
Compact 3.8" closed profile fits efficiently in vehicle storage.
The stove has a height of only 3.8” which allows it to be stored away easily whether you’re driving a small hatchback or a much larger truck or SUV. This is less than some similar models that can be more bulky and more difficult to pack efficiently.
Built-in carrying handle enables easy one-handed transport.
Along with its fairly light weight (10-pounds), the recessed handle on the bottom of the stove makes it easy to carry even with only one hand when car camping.
Powder-coated steel construction balances durability with weight.
The chassis of the Selkirk is made of a lightweight flat orange powder-coated steel which is fairly resistant to the scratches and damage that cooking in nature and the elements can bring. The ruggedness does not come at the cost of adding a lot of weight, however, and it remains one of the lighter stoves we tested.
Durable construction and materials
Independent controls allow different heat levels for simultaneous cooking
Powder-coated steel exterior resists scratches and outdoor wear.
The powder-coated steel exterior of the Selkirk 540+ is tough and scratch resistant. After years of use it still appears new without obvious signs of wear despite its heavy use.
Welded nickel-chrome-plated pot supports (4mm diameter steel).
The grill that floats above the burners has welded pot supports over each burner to accommodate even very heavy cookware. Two cast iron skillets can sit on each burner without stressing the grate beneath.
Stainless steel burner surrounds resist corrosion and ease cleaning.
Stainless steel surfaces on the top of the stove’s chassis and around the burners ensure that getting the Selkirk back to “like-new” condition is easy and fast. Our Selkirk has shown no sign of rust, even after many washes and more than a few rainy days.
Removable pot supports and grates simplify maintenance.
To clean the Selkirk, simply lift the grate and pot supports from the stove’s chassis for easy all-over access. Aside from the burners, the Selkirk’s cooking surface also lacks holes or spaces for food and crumbs to fall through.
Steel construction handles rough outdoor use and transport.
With a tough steel exterior, the Selkirk handles the many drops and bumps that come from frequent use in the outdoors.
Outdoor-rated components designed for lasting durability.
The Selkirk’s components have withstood rigorous testing over the course of several years in all weather conditions, and it has withstood everything thrown at it, with everything still functioning, with the exception of the finicky ignitor, and no visible damage to the chassis other than some stubborn grease stains.
Wind protection and weather resistance
Integrated windscreens protect flames while folding for larger cookware
Wraparound windscreens protect flames from gusts and breezes.
The Selkirk’s windscreens are larger than many other similar stoves. With more surface area, they block more wind and do an acceptable job of remaining lit even in the wind and the rain.
Windscreen design balances protection with cookware compatibility.
The Selkirk’s windscreen, which easily slots into place, is great at blocking wind while still accommodating cookware both large and small. A 10” cast iron skillet is protected from the wind just as much as our small pot we usually use for backpacking.
Integrated design prevents lost windscreen components.
The Selkirk’s slots are easy to use and secure, keeping the screen locked in place. This also prevents it from being lost among your gear or damaged in transit.
Setup and ignition system
Push-button piezo ignition eliminates the need for matches (when working).
When working, the push-button piezo ignition lights easily. The button itself protrudes nearly an inch from the body of the stove itself, making it easy to locate and press.
Simple setup process–unfold, attach windscreens, connect fuel.
A favorite feature of the Selkirk is its ease of use. While some table top stoves bring a learning curve, the Selkirk is simple and straightforward to use. Setup is as simple as opening the stove, moving the windscreens in place, and pressing the push-button piezo ignition.
Straightforward connection to standard 16-oz propane canisters.
With many table top stoves, the connection port for the Selkirk’s fuel adapter is easily located and easily connected. Some stoves require you to hold it precariously while also screwing in an adapter, which can feel awkward and cumbersome. The Selkirk’s port is easily found beneath the right windscreen and is easy to attach to standard 16-oz propane canisters.
Performance in the field
Cooking power
Although the Selkirk experiences inconsistent ignition, it burns strong and hot once lit. The 14,000 BTUs per burner make for more than enough power for our needs, which include long cook times alongside quick and high heat searing and cooking. Even down to colder temperatures, the flame didn’t seem to sputter or lose power.
Heat control
One drawback of the Selkirk 540+ is the heat control, which could be more precise. The Selkirk seems to have two main heat levels despite the flame control dials: hot and more hot. While we have been able to dial the flame down enough to cook and warm items on lower heat, food is more often than not overcooked, making for many days of scraping hard cooked eggs off of skillets. I have been able to turn it down for simmering and low boils though, so it’s not impossible to cook on low heat with the Selkirk, just inconsistent.
Portability
Weighing 10 pounds, the Selkirk isn’t the lightest stove on the market, nor is it the heaviest. We found the handle to be comfortable and the footprint to be average, making the Selkirk an overall easy stove to carry around camp and store in our crowded shed.
Setup time
With a simple flip-top design and windscreens that lock into place, set up is done in moments. The final step, attaching the regulator for the fuel tank to the chassis of the Selkirk, however, can be tricky as cross-threading occurred more easily than any other stove we tested. When this happens, the user must unthread the regulator and try again, sometimes multiple times before it will thread correctly and attach to the Selkirk for proper functionality.
Versatility
As mentioned above, the Selkirk handles dual-pot cooking well with space for 8-10” cookware.
Durability
In the field, the Selkirk has proven to be durable. It has withstood downpours when we’ve forgotten to store it safely, and has been dropped and bumped in our crowded truck bed countless times. Although several years old, our Selkirk 540+ still looks new, which we can’t say for much of our gear that is just as old.
GSI Selkirk 540+ vs. similar stoves
GSI Selkirk 540+ (top of stack of stoves in the back) showing its compact 3.8-inch profile
The Selkirk 540+ sits in the middle of the pack in terms of overall stove performance, durability, and price. At $150, it’s a higher price than many of the lower-priced table top stove models, like the Coleman Cascade or other common models found at big box stores that hover just above and below $100.
However, the Selkirk is also not the most expensive model, far below in price other stoves like the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System. We found the Selkirk to be overall fairly durable when compared to other models, though it lacks some of the accessories and consistent ignition performance that other more expensive stoves provide.
You can learn more in our Best Camping Stoves guide.
Should I buy the GSI Selkirk 540+?
Buy if you are looking to cook for both small and larger groups, need a stove that can stay lit without losing power during long cook times, and want a table-top stove that is comfortable and easy to carry and set up.
Skip if you require absolutely reliable piezo ignition, are looking to do a lot of precision and low-heat cooking, or are looking for a stove with an innovative design or features.
Where to buy the GSI Selkirk 540+?
The GSI Selirk 540+ camp stove are popular, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Dick's Sporting Goods
Pros: This major sporting goods retailer is starting to sell more specialized outdoor gear. You can get free store pick up and some locations have same day delivery. It also offers free shipping over $49.
GSI
You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from the retailer. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return, such as if there is a defect.
Similar products
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System
Price: $450
Weight: 9 lbs, 2 oz
Boil time:
Burners: 2
Fuel type: Propane
Packed dimensions: 10.3" x 7.2"
The Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System is another two-burner stove that we tested this year. Unlike the Selkirk 540+, the Genesis Basecamp is a self-contained system, nesting inside of a provided pot and skillet within a compact cylindrical carrying case. The Genesis Basecamp is a more consistent stove, without the ignition issues we have faced with the Selkirk.
The Genesis Basecamp System is ideal for campers willing to spend a higher price for a stove packed with innovation and extra accessories (like the cookware and case) while the Selkirk is a more entry level stove. The Genesis is an excellent stove though, and our favorite we have tested in 2025. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System.
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System
Price: $275
Weight: 14 lbs 12.8 oz
Boil time: 9 minutes during testing
Burners: 2
Fuel type: Propane
Packed dimensions: 22.0" x 13.2" x 3.7"
The Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 is an excellent stove, especially for families and those looking to feed a group. Coleman is a dependable brand and the Cascade 3-in-1 is a dependable stove, providing a strong flame and precise heat control for both low and high heat cooking.
The two burners are 12,000 BTUs per burner, powerful enough for everything we have thrown at it, but still less than the GSI Selkirk 540+. The cast iron griddle and grill that accompany the stove are perfect for whipping up pancakes or searing a steak. The Cascade is ideal for those who plan to cook for family and friends and couples or individuals who love to cook.
Coleman Cascade 3-in-1
Price: $200
Weight: 11.7 lbs
Boil time: 11 min during testing
Burners: 2
Fuel type: Propane
Packed dimensions: 20 in x 12.4 in x 1.4 in
The GSI Pinnacle Pro is a sleek and attractive stove. Weighing 11 pounds, it is heavier than it appears while simultaneously being slimmer than any other table-top camp stove available. The stainless steel exterior makes for a stove that looks more like a futuristic device than a stove made for camping, and the thin body makes it easy to slide between gear in your vehicle.
While small and easy to fit into cramped spaces, it can feel cumbersome to carry as it lacks a handle. We overall found the Pinnacle Pro to be mostly flash, with a longer boil time than we expected and a larger space than we’d prefer between the burner and the cooking grate. The Pinnacle Pro’s stove body doesn’t conduct heat well in our field experience, likely due to how thin it is, and it can feel hot to the touch even at the control dials while cooking.
GSI Pinnacle Pro
Why you should trust us / About the author
As an amateur cook I have spent years bringing my love of creating meals into the outdoors. For several years I even led youth programs centered around outdoor cooking, and I’ve made countless meals and desserts using everything from propane powered camp stoves to solar ovens and open flames. For me, camp stoves are as vital as my hiking boots or any other piece of gear. In both my personal and professional lives I have spent many hours outdoors hiking, backpacking, paddling, and car camping, and I look forward to making creative and filling meals at the end of every adventure.
You can read all of Gabi's articles here.
