How to Build Your Own Portable Fire Pit

Camping just would not be the same without a campfire. Most developed campsites will include a fire ring or fire pit, but if you are camping in a primitive, walk-in, or undeveloped site, you may have to bring your own. Using a fire pit to contain your campfire will keep your fire safe and from accidentally catching the woods on fire. The basic design for a portable fire pit is quite easy and you should have yours ready for use in no time at all.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Smoker coal holder
Kettle grill base
Screwdriver
Bricks
Concrete blocks
Plastic bag

Step 1

Select the base you will be using to build your fire inside. Using an old kettle-style charcoal grill or the metal coal holder from an old smoker will work well. The metal will not burn and both are large enough to hold wood for the fire. Both should have openings in the bottom to allow air to flow inside of them to keep the fire ablaze.

Step 2

Remove any legs from the base, if still attached. Remove the screws holding the legs in place and the legs should easily slip off the base. You should end up with the round base with nothing attached to it.

Step 3

Gather four to six bricks or concrete blocks to use as the base on which to set your fire pit. The bricks will keep the fire pit off the ground and give the fire much-needed oxygen to keep it alive.

Step 4

Rake the area where you will be building your fire so it is free from any leaves, sticks or other vegetation that may catch on fire. Evenly space your bricks on the ground in a circle that is large enough to hold the fire pit's base upright. Move the bricks as needed so that the fire pit's base will sit securely atop them.

Step 5

Place the fire pit on top of the bricks. Add wood and kindling to the inside of it and start your fire as usual.

Step 6

Wait for the fire pit to completely cool off and pour out any remaining burnt coals, before packing it away. Store the fire pit inside of a large plastic bag, so it does not dirty up your camping gear.

Tips & Warnings

Be cautious when dealing with what looks like a spent campfire. Though the coals may look cold and gray, they may still be hot underneath and can cause an unwanted fire or burn someone.

Situate your fire pit in an area where there are no low hanging branches or bushes that may catch on fire.

Article Written By Joyce Starr

Joyce Starr is a professional writer from Florida and owns a landscaping company and garden center. She has published articles about camping in Florida, lawn care and gardening and writes for a local gardening newsletter. She shares her love and knowledge of the outdoors and nature through her writing.

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