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One of the best parts of camping is sitting around the campfire telling stories, enjoying drinks and roasting s’mores. Unfortunately, sometimes burn bans mean campfires are not an option.
Here are 10 safe campfire alternatives that can keep you warm while camping under fire restrictions.
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Propane Fire Pits
When campfire restrictions are in place, wood and charcoal fires are usually prohibited. However, many areas still allow the use of propane fire pits that are self-contained, have an on-off switch and do not produce flying embers.
Propane fire pits are a great alternative that are safer, but also still produce a real fire to keep everyone warm. Only purchase CSA-approved equipment, as it is verified to meet strict North American safety, performance, and construction standards.
Always check local regulations before using a propane fire pit, as some bans may prohibit any open flame.
Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit
Outdoor Living makes the perfect travel-size fire pit. The propane-powered unit is 19-inches wide and 11-inches tall, and can be stored in a compact carrying bag. The fire pit also comes with a pre-attached 10-foot hose so you can connect to your RV’s quick connect or to a portable propane tank.
Ignik FireCan Portable Propane FirePit
Another awesome portable propane fire pit is the Ignik FireCan. At about 15-inches wide, 11-inches tall, and 10 pounds, it is super easy to transport to the campground. An integrated flame control knob allows for easy start-up and control of heat output. It also features a quick-release 4-foot hose that connects quickly to refillable propane tanks.
Alloy Steel Round Propane Fire Pit
If you are looking for campfire alternative for burn bans for your backyard or a seasonal campsite, this steel fire pit is a great option. At 32 inches wide with an industrial-grade 55,000 BTU burner, it puts off plenty of heat to warm up the whole family. Crafted from lightweight, fiber-reinforced concrete, this round fire table offers the heavy-duty durability of stone without the weight.
Tabletop Marshmallow Roasters
If you are camping in summer and don’t need the heat of a full fire, but want to let the kids (and adults) roast marshmallows, a tabletop roaster is a great solution. Check out our favorite s’more recipes and upgrade your favorite camping dessert.
Nostalgia Electric S’mores Maker
This tabletop roaster has a flameless heating element, so it is safe to use indoors and out; just plug and go. Of course, you do need power, so it is not a great option for campers without RV hookups.
The indoor marshmallow roaster includes 2 stainless steel forks to keep hands safe from the heater and 4-compartment trays to store all the s’more ingredients.
Chicago Metallic S’mores Maker
This cute indoor/outdoor s’more maker is powered by canned chafing fuel, so it can be used while dry camping without building a campfire. This s’mores maker includes grill top, serving tray, four roasting forks, burner holder, snuffer, and 4 stainless steel roasting sticks with easy-grip, stay-cool handles. Always check local fire restrictions before using any fuel-burning device.
Campfire Alternatives for Cooking
If you want to cook outside under a burn ban, there are many camp stoves that are safer than a traditional fire. Of course, always check local regulations before lighting any stove outside.
Gas One GS-3400P Propane or Butane Stove
This practical camp stove runs on propane or butane, and is allowed during many fire bans because it has an off switch. It is easy to use with an adjustable heat dial and an ignition that does not require a lighter or matches. The stove is super portable; it comes in a carrying case and weighs just over 3 pounds.
Coleman Triton 2-Burner Propane Stove
If you are cooking more complex meals at the campsite, the Coleman Triton has two burners. With wind guards on the side and adjustable heat dials, the stove is easy to cook on. The lid is secured with a heavy-duty latch making the stove great for travel.
Camping Accessories for Light & Warmth
If you don’t need heat for cooking, you can make your campsite cozy under a burn ban by adding some ambient lighting and some warm accessories.
Vintage Camping Lanterns
These battery-powered lanterns have a vintage look that will make your campsite feel warm and welcoming even without a campfire.
Rope Lights
Surround the perimeter of your campsite with LED rope lights to create a cozy atmosphere that isn’t too bright to take away from the natural setting. These lights do need to be plugged in so they work best for RV campers with power.
Camping Blanket
These waterproof outdoor blankets have soft, thick sherpa lining to keep campers dry, warm and comfy all night. The blanket easily rolls up and includes a carrying strap for easy transport and storage. Plus it is machine washable so you don’t have to worry about getting it a little dirty while using it outside.
As a camper, it is essential to learn about and follow local regulations to keep you, your fellow campers and the wilderness around you safe and protected. Regardless of fire restrictions, RV campers also need to practice fire safety inside their RVs.
Happy Camping!
Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book.
