Camping during burn bans - Campfire Options

[Bulldawg]

With the dry conditions this summer there’s obviously burn bans in place in a lot/most areas, and where I’m taking my daughter camping later this summer. Campfires are still allowed in permanent/established fire rings/pits but using portable fire pits is not allowed for wood fires, but the propane fire pits are still allowed. Does anyone have experience with any propane fire pits that would allow me to have a campfire with her? I mean as a kid a campfire is a big part of the fun and I’d like to do as much as I can for her.

From what I can find, there is the Howl campfire pits but it’s also $375+ and I’d like to keep this on a relative budget. Is there any good options out there that you guys have used?

 

[575 ELK]

I don’t know anything about a propane campfire but around here it is so dry you aren’t even allowed to smoke outside. After all the wildfires we’ve had in last few years people will report any fire they see at camps. Fire, bone dry and big winds just don’t mix as you can tell by all the national forest burn scars and burnt homes. Most camps just don’t have any fires.

 

[Randle]

We use a small propane pit from amazon $90
Clear out a large circle for it just as an extra precaution an light it up.

 

[Weldor]

Just buy an old grill at a yard sale, put the burner in the bottom of a small stock water tank and some glass beads.

 

[Bluumoon]

A buddy makes these. Throw them on top of the propane fit pit, increases the amount of felt heat and look cool!

 

[Bulldawg]

I don’t know anything about a propane campfire but around here it is so dry you aren’t even allowed to smoke outside. After all the wildfires we’ve had in last few years people will report any fire they see at camps. Fire, bone dry and big winds just don’t mix as you can tell by all the national forest burn scars and burnt homes. Most camps just don’t have any fires.

Yeah, stage one fire ban is no open fires, no smoking outside, and no portable wood/coal fire pits. Only fires in established, permanent fire pits at established campgrounds. But fire pits that have an on off “switch” are still allowed, have to clear ground all around but it is allowed.

 

[partsunavailable]

I love a campfire as much as anyone. But if there is a burn ban, there is a reason and trying to find a loophole to allow fire, seems negligent.

 

[Ucsdryder]

I love a campfire as much as anyone. But if there is a burn ban, there is a reason and trying to find a loophole to allow fire, seems negligent.

Especially this year. We went camping early knowing bans would happen and have cancelled all camping trips the rest of the summer. Just not worth it and camping without a camp fire sucks.

 

[fngTony]

Generally a portable propane pit is allowed as they have a switch, don’t burn wood and don’t throw embers. We have on our patio that we can take camping. It’s not quite the same as a fire but a decent substitute. Even when there isn’t restrictions or bans this can just be easier.

 

[Smokey Bear]

We got the Del Rio from Campchef years ago. Not the same as a campfire, but it’s great during burn bans. One bonus, is that you don’t get smoke in the eyes. I always seem to be the one that the smoke goes to, no matter how many times I move my chair.

 

[mfllood3800]

Gov Cox in Utah issued no anything ban. Camping in Utah will be 0 tolerance although a few out of staters will still come and burn VW engine blocks to watch the pretty pink glow. Idiots with no care.

 

[Pilsner]

The wife and I spent 6 summers working for the USFS out West caretaking campgrounds and rec areas. During burn bans we just used our propane fit pit and sat it inside the built-in fire rings. No smoke. no embers, no risk.

 

[jimh406]

I think campfires during the Summer are a bit overrated. I say that because I don't find them that great until dark, and there are only few hours of darkness. I prefer to be up early but not do without sleep. I can see making s'mores, but I don't think that would work that well on a propane fire.

I guess it depends on what "camping" means to you.

 

[Bulldawg]

I think campfires during the Summer are a bit overrated. I say that because I don't find them that great until dark, and there are only few hours of darkness. I prefer to be up early but not do without sleep. I can see making s'mores, but I don't think that would work that well on a propane fire.

I guess it depends on what "camping" means to you.

Well to my six year old “camping” means a bunch of things but one of the things she really loves is a campfire and making s’mores.

I think most would agree that a real fire is optimal but this year is a no go. A little propane fire is better than nothing!

 

[Jbehredt]

I’ve used an Ignik firecan a few times now. Worth packing during the fire restrictions for sure. Couple models with price between $200 and $300. The “moon rocks” are pretty slick.

 

[Mike Islander]

Great teachable moment. Buy some clear plastic sheets of various colors and put a flashlight under it to simulate a fire. Putting the safety of others over personal desire. Creativity in the face of obstacles. Character over self. Etc.

 

[Steve300xcw]

It amazes me when folks are willing to risk it, just so they can get the whole experience How bout take your kid camping when the entire country isnt a giant tinderbox?

Dont be that guy..

 

[575 ELK]

Most people that want fires in the dry, windy part of the year are tourist and don’t live any where near the forest. They don’t understand how dangerous and devastating wildfires are.

 

[huntcookwrite]

These are burn burn approved in most states: https://www.howlcampfires.com/

Don’t have one nor have I used one, but have heard good things.

 

[Bulldawg]

Well, hope not one of you self righteous guardians of the forest uses your jetboil this fall.