The best best fire pit for camping is the Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit. It is the only one here that ships as a complete kit with a cover, carry bag, and a 58,000-BTU burner that stays smoke-free. You want convenience and zero mess.
Want an open wood campfire instead? The Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up collapeses to 7 pounds and gives you real flames and coals for cooking. You just trade a little cleanup for the classic experience.
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This guide walks you through each pick so you know exactly what you are getting before you click buy. I also tell you who should skip this category entirely because a fire pit is not the right tool for everyone.
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, manufacturer specs, and each product's owner track record. I have not lab-tested these myself.
Quick Answer: The Best Fire Pit for Camping
The Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit is the best overall pick for hassle-free campfires. Here are all six options ranked:
This is the pick for campers who want a fire with zero effort. The 58,000 BTU burner runs on a standard 20 lb propane tank and produces a clean, smoke-free flame. Reviewers consistently mention how the included carry bag and weatherproof cover make transport painless. It weighs about 20 pounds, which is manageable for car camping or RV trips.
The 19 inch bowl throws plenty of heat for 4 to 6 people. The piezo ignition lights on the first click most of the time. You can adjust the flame from a low glow to a roaring fire. The stainless steel burner is rust resistant, and the painted steel body holds up well after a few seasons outside.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The included hose is only 4 feet long, which means the tank sits right beside the fire pit. Some buyers wish the carry bag had more padding. The finish can chip if you bump it against rocks.
If you prefer a wood burning experience for cooking over coals, the Fireside Outdoor pop up offers a lighter alternative at 7 pounds.
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Safety: Always operate propane fire pits on a stable, level surface. Never leave the flame unattended, and keep the tank at least 36 inches from the burner.
Pros
✓Complete kit (cover, carry bag, hose) included out of the box
✓Smoke free flame with no ash cleanup after use
✓Piezo ignition works reliably in most weather conditions
✓58,000 BTUs heat a group of 4-6 people comfortably
Cons
✕Short 4 ft hose forces tank to sit very close to the unit
✕Carry bag lacks padding for long hauls
✕Paint can chip if the pit is bumped during transport
BTU Rating
58,000
Weight
~20 lbs
Burner
Stainless Steel
Fuel
Propane (20 lb tank)
Best for: Car campers, RV owners, tailgaters, and anyone who prioritizes convenience over a wood fire experience.
This is for backpackers and hike-in campers who want real wood coals but cannot carry 20 pounds. The entire unit colapses into a 24 inch dius that folds flat to about the size of a large pizza box. At 7 pounds, it is the lightest wood burning fire pit on this list. Set up takes about 30 seconds.
You get a 24 inch diameter burn area that handles logs up to 16 inches long. The heat shield is NOT included with this model, so you need to place it on dirt, sand, or gravel. Buyer reviws mention it throws good heat for 3 to 4 people sitting around it. The steel ring holds up well to repeated use, though it will eventually rust if left in rain.
P> No heat shield means you cannot use it on grass or a wooden deck. The enlosed design can leave ash to clean up after each burn. Some users report the wire legs can sink into soft ground on the first burn.
If you need a heat shield for deck use, the other Fireside Outdoor model includes one for a few extra pounds.
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Safety: The unit heats the outer ring to temperatures that can ignite dry grass. Always clear a 3 foot radius of dead vegetation before lighting.
Pros
✓Ultra lightweight at 7 pounds for hike in camping
✓Collapses flat to fit in a backpack or small trunk
This i the pick for campers who want to cook over the fire without buying a separate grill. The Ciays comes with a removable grill grate that sits right over the flame. It also includes folding legs, hose hooks, a propane tank holder, a weather cover, and a carry strap. That is a lot of kit for the price. The 58,000 BTU burner is identical in output to the Outland Living model.
The 19 inch bowl and folding legs make setup and teardown quick. The tank holder keeps the 20 lb propane tank secure during transport. Owner reviws note the piezo ignition lights reliably. The lava rock or glass media is not included, so you need to supply your own filler to hide the burner.
Flaws but not deabreakers. The grill grate is thin and may warp if used at max flame for long periods. Some buyers report that the hose kinks easily if not stored properly. The carry strap is functional but not padded.
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If you want a more solid cooking surface, the GasBRUH offers a higher 60,000 BTU output for grilling.
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Assembly: The legs require basic assembly with the included hardware. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for first-time setup.
Pros
✓Includes grill grate, hose hooks, tank holder, cover, and strap
✓58,000 BTUs heat a group of 4-6 people
✓Folding legs make for compact storage
✓Easy assembly with clear instructions
Cons
✕Grill grate is thin and may warp with high heat
✕Hose kinks easily if not coiled properly for storage
✕Lava rock or glass media not included
BTU Rating
58,000
Weight
~18 lbs
Fuel
Propane (20 lb tank)
Included
Grill grate, cover, strap, tank holder
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want propane convenience plus the ability to grill hot dogs or burgers directly over the flame.
This is for campers who camp in cold weather and need serious heat output. The 60,000 BTU rating is the highest on this list. That extra 2,000 BTUs over the Outland and Ciays models translates to noticeably more radiant heat on a chilly night. The 19 inch bowl pushes that warmth outward effectively. Aggregate user reviews note that on a 40 degree night, you can feel the heat from 6 feet away.
The unit ships with a weather cover and a carry bag. Setup is straightforward with folding legs. The piezo ignition is standard. The tank is not included, but the hose attaches to any standard 20 lb propane tank. Some buyers mention the lava rock included in the box is a nice bonus for hiding the burner pan.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The steel body is painted black and can show scratches after a few trips. The included carry bag is thin and offers minimal protection. A few owners report the control knob feels a bit loose out of the box, but it still functions fine.
If you want a more rugged build for frequent travel, the Outland Living has a thicker steel gauge and a sturdier carry bag.
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Safety: The higher BTU rating means the outer bowl gets very hot. Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away during operation.
This is the pick for campers who want a wood fire on grass or a wooden deck without scorching the ground. The built-in heat shield sits underneath the fire ring and reflects heat upward. It weighs 8 pounds, just one pound more than the standard model, but the extra protection lets you use it on lawns, wooden decks, and even indoor fireproof surfaces. Buyer reviews confirm the shield stays cool enough to touch after use.
The 24 inch diameter bowl accepts logs up to 16 inches long. It collapses flat for storage, and the included tote bag makes transport easy. The steel construction is the same as the lighter model, but the heat shield adds rigidity. The legs fold out in seconds. Most owners say assembly takes under two minutes.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. At 8 pounds it is still light, but the shield adds bulk when packed. Some users report the shield can rattle during transport if not secured. The paint on the fire ring will char and peel after a few fires, which is normal for wood burning pits.
If you need the absolute lightest option for backpacking, the 7 pound Fireside model without heat shield is lighter and packs smaller.
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Safety: Even with the heat shield, never leave a wood fire unattended. Place on a level, non-combustible surface for best results.
Pros
✓Built-in heat shield allows use on grass and decks
✓Collapses flat for compact storage
✓Lightweight at 8 pounds with shield included
✓Quick setup with folding legs
Cons
✕Heat shield adds bulk when packed
✕Shield can rattle during transport if not secured
✕Paint will char and peel after repeated use
Diameter
24 in
Weight
8 lbs
Fuel
Wood
Extras
Heat shield, tote bag
Best for: Campers who want a wood fire on sensitive surfaces like grass, wooden decks, or indoor fireplaces with proper clearance.
This is for groups of 4-6 people who want a big wood fire without hauling a heavy steel ring. The 27.5 inch diameter is the largest on the list, and it folds down flat into its included tote bag. It is made of steel but weighs only about 12 pounds. Owners report it holds logs up to 20 inches long, making it ideal for longer campfire sessions.
The collapsible design uses a simple folding ring mechanism. You put it together in under a minute with no tools. It works best on dirt, sand, or gravel because there is no heat shield. The steel will develop a patina over time, but that is normal for wood burning fire pits. The tote bag has a zipper closure and handles for carrying.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The steel is thinner than the Fireside models, so it may warp over time with very hot fires. There is no bottom, so ash and embers fall directly onto the ground. Some buyers mention the bag stitching can fail after a season of heavy use.
If you need a more durable build for frequent use, the Fireside 7 pound model uses thicker steel and is more rugged.
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Safety: Without a heat shield, this pit should only be used on non-combustible surfaces. Avoid dry grass and wooden surfaces.
Pros
✓Largest diameter at 27.5 inches fits big logs
✓Collapsible design packs flat into included tote bag
✓Easy assembly in under a minute
✓Light enough at 12 lbs for car camping
Cons
✕Thinner steel may warp with very hot fires
✕No heat shield, use only on bare ground
✕Bag stitching may fail after a season
Diameter
27.5 in
Weight
~12 lbs
Fuel
Wood
Packed Size
Flat, 27.5 in disc
Best for: Large groups, family camping trips, and anyone who wants a big wood fire without the weight of a traditional steel ring.
That is the first question. Propane models like the Outland Living and GasBRUH give you instant flame control and zero cleanup. You turn a knob, press ignition, and you are done.
No ash, no smoke in your eyes, no chopping wood. But you need to carry a 20 pound propane tank, and the flame never gives you that campfire crackle or cooking coals.
Wood burning pits like the two Fireside models and the 27.5 inch collapsible give you real flames, real coals for cooking, and the full backcountry vibe. You also get smoke, ash, and the need to gather or bring firewood. The 27.5 inch model holds larger logs, which is great for groups, but it also means more cleanup.
The 19 inch diameter of the Outland and Ciays models works fine for 4 people sitting close. The 24 inch Fireside models give a bit more room for larger logs. The 27.5 inch collapsible is noticeably bigger and can handle a proper bonfire for 6 people.
But bigger also means more weight and more bulk when packed.
Weight and packability matter more than you think.
The Fireside 7 pound model is the clear winner for backpacking or hike-in camping. It folds flat and fits inside a large backpack. The 27.5 inch collapsible folds flat too but weighs 12 pounds, which is still manageable for car camping.
The propane models weigh between 18 and 20 pounds and need a dedicated spot in your trunk.
Heat output and safety are closely linked.
Higher BTUs (like the GasBRUH at 60,000) produce more heat but also make the outer bowl hotter. Always check that your surface can handle the heat. For wood pits, the presence of a heat shield (only on the Fireside heat shield model) makes a big difference for use on grass.
Without it, you risk scorching or fires.
For a complete outdoor setup, you might also want a way to stay oriented. A reliable compass is essential for serious backcountry navigation. And if you camp near water, a portable shower can make multi-day trips much more comfortable.
A portable fire pit is not the right choice for every camper. Here are three situations where you should skip this category entirely.
You need a cooking stove first
If your primary goal is to boil water and cook meals, a fire pit is overkill. A camp stove is lighter, faster, and more fuel-efficient. Fire pits are for ambiance and warmth, not efficient cooking.
Look at a propane camp stove or a backpacking stove instead.
You are backpacking more than a few miles
The lightest fire pit here weighs 7 pounds. That is a lot to carry on your back for a multi-day trip. If you are hiking deep into the backcountry, a camp stove and a candle lantern will give you light and heat without the weight.
The 7 pound Fireside is only really useful for short hike-in campsites.
You want to use it indoors or on a deck without protection
Only the Fireside with heat shield is remotely safe for use on a wooden deck, and even then you need constant supervision. No portable fire pit is safe for indoor use (including tents). If you need indoor heat or a fireplace, look at a dedicated indoor propane heater or a fireplace insert that meets local fire codes.
Final Verdict
The Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit is the best all-around pick for most campers. It gives you smoke-free flames, easy cleanup, and everything you need in the box. If you want a wood fire, the Fireside 7 pound model is the lightest and most packable option.
Need a heat shield for deck use? The Fireside with heat shield gets the job done. Want the biggest fire for a group?
The 27.5 inch collapsible wins on size.
If you are buying for a home patio rather than camping, you might find better options in our roundup of the best backyard fire pits. And if you are heading into the backcountry, do not forget a GPS handheld for reliable navigation.
Whatever you choose, keep safety in mind and never leave a fire unattended. Enjoy the warmth.
FAQ
What's the best Fire Pit for Camping overall?
The Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit is the top pick for its complete kit, smoke-free operation, and ease of use. It works great for car camping, RV trips, and tailgating.
Can I use a propane fire pit on a wooden deck?
Only if the pit has a heat shield. The Fireside model with heat shield is one option, but even then you need a fireproof mat underneath and constant supervision. The Outland and GasBRUH models are not designed for deck use.
How long does a 20 lb propane tank last in a fire pit?
At the full 58,000 BTU setting, a standard 20 lb tank lasts about 8 to 10 hours. On a low setting you can stretch that to 15 hours or more. Actual runtime depends on your flame height.
Do I need to buy any extras for these fire pits?
The Outland Living and GasBRUH include covers and carry bags. The Ciays includes a grill grate and tank holder. The wood pits include tote bags.
You will need your own propane tank for the gas models, and firewood for the wood models.
Are collapsible fire pits durable?
Yes, but they use thinner steel than permanent fire rings. The Fireside models hold up well for several seasons. The 27.5 inch collapsible uses thinner steel and may warp if you burn extremely hot fires.
All steel fire pits will rust if left in the rain.
Can I cook directly over a propane fire pit?
Some models include a grill grate, like the Ciays. For the others, you can buy an aftermarket grate that sits over the bowl. Just avoid putting food directly on the burner pan, because it is not designed for cooking.
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