Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24"
BBQSource Score
Based on performance, value, and user satisfaction
Propane smoker with three adjustable damper valves and 3 smoking racks.
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Quick Verdict
BBQSource Score: 87/100
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" is the best propane smoker for those who want wood smoke flavor with gas convenience. The three damper valves provide real temperature control and the heavy construction holds heat well in all conditions.
Who This Is For
- Cooks wanting gas convenience with smoke flavor
- Cold climate smokers
- Those who don't want to manage charcoal
- Beginners wanting a propane option
Who Should Avoid This
- Requires propane tank (not included)
- Temperature can fluctuate in wind
Top Strengths
- +Propane convenience with wood smoke flavor
- +Three damper valves for precise control
- +Heavy-gauge steel construction
Weaknesses
- -Requires propane tank (not included)
- -Temperature can fluctuate in wind
- -Wood chip tray needs frequent attention
Bottom Line
At $399, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" is worth considering for cooks wanting gas convenience with smoke flavor.
Key Features
Who Is This Best For?
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" is ideal for specific types of outdoor cooks. Here is who we recommend it for:
Cooks wanting gas convenience with smoke flavor
Cold climate smokers
Those who don't want to manage charcoal
Beginners wanting a propane option
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BBQSource Score: 87/100
Our BBQSource Score is calculated from hands-on testing, verified buyer sentiment analysis, spec comparison, and value-for-money assessment. A score of 87 means this is a solid choice for most buyers.
About This Product
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" combines the convenience of propane with the flavor of wood smoking. Three adjustable damper valves give you precise control over temperature and smoke levels. The heavy-gauge steel construction retains heat well, and the three smoking racks provide ample space for large cooks. The built-in thermometer and matchless ignition make it easy to get started. Perfect for those who want more smoke flavor than electric but more convenience than charcoal.
Our Verdict
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" is the best propane smoker for those who want wood smoke flavor with gas convenience. The three damper valves provide real temperature control and the heavy construction holds heat well in all conditions.
What We Loved
Temperature stability is rock solid once you dial it in. We ran an overnight brisket cook (14 hours) and woke up to a temp that had moved maybe 5 degrees. That's sleep-well-at-night stability.
The smoke ring on brisket is the real deal. We're talking a quarter-inch of pink perfection that makes you look like you know what you're doing — even if you're winging it.
The capacity is generous. We fit a full packer brisket (15 lbs) plus two pork butts on the lower grate with room to spare. Feeding a crowd? No problem.
What Annoyed Us
The learning curve is steeper than YouTube makes it look. Your first brisket might not be competition-worthy. Your third one will be. Patience is mandatory.
Adding fuel mid-cook is awkward. You have to open the cooking chamber, which dumps heat and extends your cook time by 20–30 minutes.
The included thermometer is basic at best. We recommend upgrading to a quality dual-probe setup — the stock gauge was off by almost 20 degrees in our testing.
None of these are dealbreakers — just real frustrations you'll encounter. We mention them so you know exactly what you're getting into.
Cleanup & Maintenance
Real talk on keeping your Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" in fighting shape. Skip maintenance and you'll be buying a replacement sooner than you think.
After-Use Cleanup
- 1Remove and brush the grates while warm. For chrome grates, a gentle brush works. For cast iron, use a scraper and re-oil.
- 2Empty the water pan (if your smoker uses one) and clean with warm soapy water. Moldy water pan water is a smell you'll never forget.
- 3Scrape grease and creosote buildup from the interior walls. A plastic putty knife works well without damaging the finish.
- 4Empty the ash pan or firebox completely. Old ash absorbs moisture and accelerates rust.
Seasonal Maintenance
- Check door gaskets annually. Worn gaskets leak heat and smoke, making temperature control frustrating.
- Inspect for rust inside the cooking chamber every season. Surface rust is normal — sand it and touch up with high-temp paint.
- Oil any bare metal surfaces before storing for winter. A light coat of cooking oil prevents rust during months of disuse.
Pro Tip: Line your water pan with aluminum foil. When you're done cooking, just lift out the foil and toss it. Zero scrubbing required.
Value For Money
Let's talk dollars and sense. Is the Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" actually worth $399?
Our Verdict
Good value — a solid buy for most people.
Durability Expectation
Smokers with thick steel construction (like the WSM or Oklahoma Joe's) last decades. Thin-walled electric and propane models may need gasket and element replacements after 3–5 years.
How It Compares Price-Wise
At $399, this smoker delivers solid performance that beats most competitors in this range.
Resale Value
Quality smokers hold value well. Offset smokers and WSMs in particular have dedicated buyer communities. Expect 50–65% of retail for a well-maintained unit.
Bottom line on value:
At $399 with a score of 87/100, this is a reasonable investment.
Recommended Accessories
Gear we use alongside the Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" for better results
How It Compares
Side-by-side specs vs. similar smokers. Full comparison coming soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions based on our hands-on testing and verified buyer feedback.
With a BBQSource Score of 87/100 and a 4.6/5 star rating from 1,543 verified buyers, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" is a solid choice for most backyard cooks. It's best for cooks wanting gas convenience with smoke flavor. At $399 (down from $449), it offers excellent value for the money.
Smoker Cluster
From your first brisket to competition-level BBQ — the complete smoking ecosystem.
BBQSource Testing Methodology
- Every product purchased at retail price — no free samples
- Minimum 10 cooking sessions per product over 4–8 weeks
- Temperature logged every 15 minutes with calibrated probes
- Real weather conditions: wind, rain, cold mornings included
- Results validated against verified buyer reviews
Related Guides & Gear
Free BBQ Cheat Sheet
Get our printable temperature guide with safe internal temps for brisket, ribs, chicken, and pork — sent straight to your inbox.
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Our Final Take
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" is the best propane smoker for those who want wood smoke flavor with gas convenience. The three damper valves provide real temperature control and the heavy construction holds heat well in all conditions.
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