How to build the perfect campfire: A guide
Are you already on your way out the door to build the perfect campfire? Then you can easily print out this guide and have it handy, no matter how far out in the wilderness you find yourself. It's easy to follow the step-by-step instructions and get everything you need for lighting, heating, and cooking in place before you leave.
Are you already on your way out the door to build the perfect campfire? Then you can easily print out this guide and have it handy, no matter how far out in the wilderness you find yourself. It's easy to follow the step-by-step instructions and get everything you need for lighting, heating, and cooking in place before you leave.
What you need
Kindling (or kindling blocks)
Firelighters and firewood
Matches (long or short)
Scout knife
A bucket (with water)
How to do it
1. Start by gathering/cutting kindling, or use kindling blocks and kindling sticks (15 cm sticks). Build the fire in a pyramid shape with the kindling sticks leaning over a large bundle of kindling as a base.
2. Use matches to light the kindling/firelighters. It is a good idea to light the teepee in several different places so that it burns faster. Add more kindling if the firelighters are taking too long to catch fire. Once it is burning, you can gradually add larger sticks and then burn them on the fire.
3. Some people prefer to build large teepees with firewood, while others build them in a square shape around the small teepee. In general, the square shape is better for releasing heat, while the teepee shape is more suitable if you want to make a really large fire.
Remember:
Only build fires in places where it is permitted, and never (ever) in places where fires are prohibited or when it is windy. Build the fire on a base of gravel or sand with stones and gravel at the bottom and a circle of stones around it. Fires should not be lit on or next to rocks, nor on dry peat or moss. Avoid lighting fires near trees, tree stumps, or dry grass.