How to Build the Perfect Campfire

Building the perfect campfire takes more than just striking a match.

There’s something magical about gathering around a crackling campfire, whether you're roasting marshmallows, telling stories, or simply enjoying the warmth of the flames.

Before we get started, please make sure your campsite permits campfires. Read on to find out our tips for the perfect campfire!

Choose the right location

Find a safe, flat spot away from overhanging branches, dry grass, or other flammable materials. Many campsites have designated fire rings—always use these if available. If you’re in a remote area, clear a space, removing any debris like leaves or twigs.

Gather all your materials

Firelighters are a sure-fire way of getting things lit, but if you don’t have any, or prefer not to use them, then you will need something as tinder. Newspaper or other unprinted paper is usually the easiest thing to take with you, but toilet paper makes an excellent stand in for tinder, just make sure you don’t burn it all!

Create a fire structure

The type of fire that first springs to mind as a campfire is the teepee style fire, where the logs are built up in a pyramid shape providing even heat on all sides. This is the type of fire that people usually build, and while it can be attractive, it does need a lot of tending and it will burn more wood for the heat output than other styles.

We recommend creating a squared structure -- similar to a game of Jenga. Arrange the kindling and fuel wood in a square formation, with the tinder in the centre. This provides a stable base and burns steadily. Start with small pieces of kindling and tinder then build up with some small logs. When the fire is going, keep laying logs in a criss-cross design and build the fire up and outwards.

Light the Fire

Use a match, lighter, or fire starter to ignite the tinder. Gently blow on the fire to encourage airflow and get it going. Once the tinder catches, the kindling should ignite, followed by the larger fuel wood. Be patient and let the fire build naturally. Avoid over loading the fire to allow the air to circulate easily, fires can quickly get out of control.

Put the Fire Out Safely

Never leave a fire unattended. When you’re done, allow the fire to burn down to ashes, then douse it with water, stirring the ashes to ensure it’s completely extinguished. Touch the area with the back of your hand to check for any remaining heat before leaving.

A final note from us

With these simple steps, you'll be able to build a safe, efficient, and ethe perfect campfire, for warmth, cooking, and creating lasting memories around the campsite!