Quick answer: Check fire restrictions first. Then pick a flat open spot at least 15 feet from tents, vegetation and low branches, clear a 10-foot circle, dig about 1 foot deep and ring the pit with rocks if you do not have a metal fire ring. That is the Smokey Bear method from the US Forest Service. Use an existing pit if one is there, keep the fire small, and drown it until the ashes are cool.
A rock ring is the classic campsite fire pit, and it is also what most campgrounds already provide. Building a new one is for dispersed sites where fires are allowed.
This guide gives the steps, the distances and how to put the fire out.
Related: tent camping gear checklist, building a campfire in a fire pit and how to build a campfire.
Steps
- Check restrictions and weather. Skip the fire if rules prohibit it or it is dry or windy.
- Pick a flat, open spot away from gusty winds, at least 15 feet from tents, vegetation and low branches, with overhead clearance three times the flame height.
- Clear a 10-foot diameter down to bare soil.
- Use an existing pit if there is one. Otherwise dig about 1 foot deep.
- Ring it with rocks, or a metal fire ring if you have one.
Building and Watching the Fire
Gather small dry sticks and logs from the ground; do not cut live or dead trees. Light with a match or lighter, never flammable liquids. Keep the fire small and never leave it unattended. Do not burn trash, aerosols, batteries, glass or aluminum.
Putting It Out
| Step | Smokey Bear guidance |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pour plenty of water until the hissing stops |
| 2 | Stir embers, dirt and sand with a shovel; scrape out sticks and logs |
| 3 | Add more water, dirt or sand until cool |
| 4 | Hover the back of your hand over the ashes to confirm |
If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.
Honest Limits
Many campgrounds and forests ban new fire rings and require existing ones. The wet-rock caution is general outdoor advice. Always follow local rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far should a fire pit be from a tent?
At least 15 feet from tents, vegetation and low branches.
How deep should I dig?
About 1 foot, if no existing pit.
How much should I clear?
A 10-foot diameter.
Can I use rocks from a stream?
Avoid them; wet rocks can crack when heated.
Can I build a new ring anywhere?
No. Many areas require existing rings. Check rules.
What wood can I use?
Dry sticks and logs from the ground; never cut trees.
Can I use lighter fluid?
No. Match or lighter only.
How do I know the fire is out?
Ashes cool to the back of your hand.
What should I not burn?
Trash, aerosols, batteries, glass, aluminum.
When should I skip the fire?
Under restrictions or in dry, windy conditions.
Bottom Line
Clear 10 feet, dig a foot, ring it with rocks, keep it 15 feet from the tent.
Keep it small, watch it and drown it cold.
Source: Smokey Bear, Campfire Safety.