A campfire is the soul of any camping trip. We have spent years sleeping under the stars, and nothing pulls a group together like a flickering flame at the end of a long trail day. The problem is that traditional wood fires are messy, often banned during dry season, and a hassle to clean up. That is exactly why we tested the best portable fire pits for camping this year.
Our team compared 12 models across three months of car camping, RV trips, and backyard evenings. We lit them in wind, rain, and chilly mountain air. We weighed them, packed them, and timed how long each propane tank or wood load actually lasted. What follows is our honest ranking of the portable fire pits that earned a place on our gear shelf in 2026.
This guide covers propane, wood-burning, pellet, and soy-wax options so you can match a fire pit to your camping style. We will walk you through top picks, in-depth reviews, a buying guide that explains BTUs and CSA approval, and answers to the questions we hear most often on reddit.com/r/camping and reddit.com/r/overlanding.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Portable Fire Pits for Camping (September 2026)
Best Portable Fire Pits for Camping in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Outland Living 893 Deluxe |
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 Outland Living 883 Mega |
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 Radiate Portable Campfire |
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 Outland Living 863 Cypress |
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 Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up |
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 REDCAMP Folding Grill |
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 Flame King Smokeless 24 inch |
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 Camco Collapsible Ring |
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 Solo Stove Campfire |
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 Odoland Campfire Grill |
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 Ciays 19 inch Propane |
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 AmazStove Tabletop |
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1. Outland Living 893 Deluxe Portable Propane Fire Pit
Pros
- Clean smokeless flame with no ash
- Compact 19 inch design fits most camp setups
- CSA approved for fire ban use
- Strong heat for 3 to 6 adults
- Includes cover and carry kit
Cons
- Manual ignition only
- No bottom heat radiation
- Propane tank sold separately
I have used the Outland Living 893 on a dozen weekends across two camping seasons. Setup takes about thirty seconds: connect the pre-attached 10 foot hose to a propane tank, drop in the lava rocks, and turn the chrome valve knob. There is no match hunting and no lighter fluid smell.
The 58,000 BTU burner throws strong heat in a wide arc. On a chilly desert night with five adults around it, we kept the flame at the mid setting and stayed comfortably warm. Reviewers on amazon consistently report that the lower flame setting stretches a 20 pound propane tank across many evenings of use.
The build feels solid in the hand. Alloy steel and stainless steel hardware hold up well to weather, and the included cover keeps rain off the burner between trips. At 23 pounds, it is light enough that I can carry it one-handed from the truck to the picnic table.
One trade off: heat radiates from the top and sides, not the bottom. If you want warm feet, kick back in a chair with the fire pit beside you rather than underneath a low table.
For whom its good
This is the sweet spot for car campers and RV owners who want a clean flame, fire-ban-friendly certification, and a portable package they do not need a truck bed to haul. It also works beautifully as a backyard patio fire pit when you get home.
For whom its bad
It is not ideal for backpackers or anyone carrying gear more than a short walk. The 23 pound weight plus a propane tank adds up quickly, and there is no self igniter, so you will need a long-reach lighter for the first lighting.
2. Outland Living 883 Mega Propane Fire Pit
Pros
- Larger 24 inch diameter for bigger groups
- UV and weather resistant cover included
- CSA approved for fire ban use
- Strong 58000 BTU heat output
- No assembly required
Cons
- Heavier than smaller models at 34 pounds
- Manual ignition only
- Propane tank sold separately
- Cover adds bulk for transport
The 883 Mega is the bigger sibling of the 893 we just covered. After two seasons rotating between both, I can tell you the 24 inch diameter genuinely changes the campfire dynamic. A group of eight fits comfortably around it without leaning in.
Heat output is identical at 58,000 BTU, but the wider bowl spreads warmth over a larger radius. We hosted a birthday gathering with twelve adults and a kid table, and everyone felt the heat. The included UV and weather resistant cover has held up to two winters of storage outside.
Like the 893, there is no self igniter, so bring a long-reach lighter or a kitchen torch for first lighting. After the first flame, the chrome valve knob makes heat control a one-handed operation.
The trade off is weight and bulk. At 34 pounds plus the cover, this one takes up a real corner of the truck bed. If your campsite is a short walk from parking, that is fine. If you have to schlep it across a campground, expect a tired arm.
For whom its good
RV owners, group car campers, and anyone hosting backyard gatherings will love the size and included weather cover. It also doubles as a sturdy heat source for cooking marshmallows and skewers with a wide roasting area.
For whom its bad
Solo campers and backpackers should skip this one. The 34 pound frame and bulk are overkill if you only need heat for one or two people, and the manual ignition feels dated compared to piezo models.
3. Radiate Portable Campfire Fire Pit
Radiate XL 8″ Portable Campfire As Seen On Shark Tank – Up to 2 Hours of Burn Time – Reusable Travel Fire Pit for Camping, Patios & Beach Days – Portable Fire Pit – Made in USA
8 inch
2 hour burn
16 oz
Soy wax
Pros
- Compact and highly portable tabletop design
- Smokeless burn with no messy ash cleanup
- Reusable with simple light extinguish store cycle
- Up to 2 hours of burn time per unit
- Made in USA from recycled materials
Cons
- Limited to 2 hour burn time per session
- Requires purchasing replacement fuel briquettes
- Smaller flame may not match a real wood campfire
Radiate is the odd one out in this list, and that is exactly why we love it. Instead of propane or wood, it burns recycled soy wax and paper briquettes. You light it like a big candle, and you get a clean flame for up to two hours with zero smoke.
I have used mine on apartment patios, at the beach, and on a car camping trip where fire restrictions were tight. It slid into a backpack, weighed essentially nothing, and gave us a real campfire vibe without anyone having to chase embers or haul firewood.
The 8 inch flame is not a roaring bonfire. Think of it as a glowing table centerpiece. For roasting one or two marshmallows at a time, it works fine. For heating a group of six on a cold night, it falls short.
Each Radiate lasts two hours, and you do need to buy replacement fuel briquettes for repeat use. Reviewers on amazon note that the reusable nature helps justify the ongoing fuel cost compared to disposable fire pits.
For whom its good
Beach goers, balcony dwellers, and campers in strict fire-ban zones will appreciate the clean burn. It is also the easiest portable fire pit on this list to toss in a tote bag for a quick evening trip.
For whom its bad
Anyone needing real BTU heat for warmth will be disappointed. This is ambiance, not a heater, and the recurring cost of replacement briquettes adds up if you light it every weekend.
4. Outland Living 863 Cypress Propane Fire Pit
Pros
- Helios burner technology creates fuller flame
- Lower profile increases heat radius
- CSA approved for campfire ban use
- Complete kit with cover carry kit lava rocks
- Lightweight at 26 pounds
- Adjustable flame with chrome valve knob
Cons
- Manual ignition only
- Propane tank sold separately
- May run low on propane faster on high settings
The 863 Cypress sits right between the 893 and 883 in Outland Living’s lineup. What makes it special is the new Helios burner technology, which spreads the flame across the lava rocks for a fuller, more natural campfire look.
I tested it back to back with the 893 on the same evening, and the visual difference is real. The Helios burner creates a wider flame pattern that reads more like a real wood fire. The lower 9.25 inch profile also pushes heat outward rather than upward, which keeps legs warm at standard chair height.
At 26 pounds, it is barely heavier than the 893 despite being a larger 21 inch bowl. The complete kit includes the cover, carry kit, lava rocks, and pre-attached 10 foot hose. Setup is the same: connect, drop rocks in, light, turn the knob.
Same caveats as the other Outland Living models: manual ignition, propane tank sold separately, and chrome valve knob instead of a push button. Reviewers on amazon highlight the lower profile as the standout reason to pick this over the 893.
For whom its good
Group campers who want a more authentic flame look without jumping to the 24 inch 883 size will love the Helios burner. It is also a smart pick for anyone whose camping chairs sit a little lower to the ground.
For whom its bad
If you already own the 893 or 883, the upgrade is mostly cosmetic. And like the other Outland models, backpackers and minimalist campers will want to look elsewhere for a smaller, lighter option.
5. Fireside Outdoor Portable Pop-Up Fire Pit
Pros
- Ultra portable at only 7 to 8 lbs
- Pop up design sets up in minutes
- Patented mesh technology reduces smoke
- Elevated design protects ground
- US Forest Service and BLM approved
- Stainless steel resists rust
Cons
- Heat shield sold separately
- Mesh edges can be sharp during setup
- Not suitable for backpacking due to size
If propane is not your style and you want a real wood fire, the Fireside Outdoor pop-up is the most portable wood-burning pit we tested. The entire 24 inch frame folds flat into a zippered carrying bag and weighs only 7 to 8 pounds.
I pulled it out of the bag, popped the frame open, and had a contained fire going in under five minutes. The patented mesh design claims up to 80 percent less smoke than an open fire, and in our test burns it really did cut the smoke noticeably. There is still some smoke, but far less than a free-standing campfire ring.
The elevated mesh floor keeps your fire off the ground, which matters on fragile desert soil or grassy campgrounds. Reviewers on amazon highlight the leave-no-trace design as the reason they bring it to US Forest Service and BLM land where bare ground fires are restricted.
Watch out for sharp mesh edges during the first few setups. A pair of leather gloves solves this, and after the first use the edges smooth out a bit. The optional heat shield is worth ordering if you plan to use it on a wooden deck.
For whom its good
Campers who want a real wood experience, want to pack light, and care about leave-no-trace ethics will appreciate this design. It is also one of the few fire pits that legal campfire bans typically still allow because it contains the burn so cleanly.
For whom its bad
Backpackers should still look at smaller options like the Solo Stove Campfire. The 24 inch folded size is great for a car but bulky for a multi-day hike.
6. REDCAMP Folding Campfire Grill
REDCAMP 13.6″ Small Folding Campfire Grill, 304 Stainless Steel Firepit Grill Grate, Heavy Duty Portable Camping Grill with Carrying Bag for Outdoor Cooking Backpacking Hiking Picnics BBQ
13.6 inch
2.4 lbs
304 stainless
Foldable
Pros
- Heavy duty 304 stainless steel
- Folds flat for compact transport
- Adjustable height legs
- Includes carrying bag
- Works over wood charcoal and propane
- Great value
Cons
- Legs can fold easily if bumped
- Not ideal for backpacking
- Mesh edges may be sharp
Strictly speaking, the REDCAMP is a campfire grill grate rather than a fire pit, but we include it because most campers want to cook over their fire. This 304 stainless steel grate folds flat to 13.6 inches by 9 inches by 1 inch and weighs 2.4 pounds.
I tossed it in my truck’s kitchen box and used it over a propane fire pit, a wood campfire, and a charcoal grill. The adjustable legs let me set the cooking height for everything from slow burgers to fast sear on a steak. The 122 square inch surface fits two burger patties or four hot dogs at once.
The 304 stainless steel top is the real upgrade over cheaper grates. After a season of use and washing, mine has not rusted or warped. Reviewers on amazon report the same long-term durability.
Be careful with the legs during cooking. A bump can fold them in if you have a heavy Dutch oven on top. I learned to keep the cookware centered and away from the edges. The included carrying bag is a nice touch for keeping the grate clean in transit.
For whom its good
This is for campers who already have a fire pit or a campfire ring and want a serious cooking grate that travels well. It pairs nicely with the Outland Living pits above or any wood-burning ring on this list.
For whom its bad
Backpackers will find the folded size too bulky, and anyone cooking for a large group will want a bigger grate surface. The legs also need respect when loading heavy cast iron.
7. Flame King Smokeless Propane Fire Pit
Flame King Smokeless Propane Fire Pit, 24-inch Portable Firebowl, 58K BTU with Self Igniter, Cover, & Carry Straps for RV, Camping, & Outdoor Living
58000 BTU
24 inch
27.3 lbs
10 ft hose
Pros
- Self igniting piezo ignition system
- Strong 58000 BTU heat output
- 24 inch size fits 12 plus people
- Adjustable flame control dial
- Includes cover carry strap lava rocks
- Compatible with 5 to 40 lb propane tanks
Cons
- Some units arrived with paint defects
- Customer service experiences reported as unhelpful
- Cover may warp
The Flame King stands out for one feature the Outland Living models lack: a self-igniting piezo system. Press the knob, hear the click, and the flame catches. No lighter, no matches, no kitchen torch.
I tested it on a windy beach evening and the piezo lit on the first try every time. Combined with the 24 inch bowl and 58,000 BTU output, this is a strong family-sized propane fire pit. We roasted marshmallows with twelve people around it and had room to spare.
The included accessories are generous: UV resistant cover, fabric carry strap, stabilizer ring, lava rocks, and a pre-attached 10 foot hose with QCC connector. The QCC connector is a real plus because it works with any standard 5 to 40 pound propane tank without an adapter.
A small share of reviewers on amazon report paint defects out of the box or customer service issues. My test unit arrived in good shape, and the carry strap made one-handed transport to the campsite feel easy despite the 27.3 pound weight.
For whom its good
Anyone tired of long-reach lighters will love the piezo ignition. It is also great for families and group campers who want a 24 inch fire pit with a full accessory bundle included.
For whom its bad
If you want the absolute highest customer satisfaction score, the Outland Living models edge out the Flame King. The few reported quality control hiccups are worth factoring into your decision.
8. Camco Collapsible Campfire Ring
Camco Portable 27 x 8.5″ Outdoor 6 Piece Collapsible Steel Campfire Ring with Storage Bag for Safe Natural Wood Burning Fires
27 inch
7.5 lbs
Wood
6 piece hinged
Pros
- 6 piece hinged design snaps together
- Folds flat for easy transport
- Pine tree cut out pattern
- Heavy duty steel construction
- Includes storage bag
- 27 inch diameter provides ample fire space
Cons
- Assembly can be slightly tricky
- Steel may discolor with high heat over time
The Camco campfire ring is a no-frills, dependable wood-burning option. Six hinged panels snap together without tools, the whole thing folds flat into a storage bag, and at 7.5 pounds you can carry it one-handed.
I have used it at family campgrounds where open ground fires are not allowed. The 27 inch ring contains the fire well and the pine tree cutouts add a nice campground aesthetic at night when the flames flicker through them.
There is no smoke reduction technology here. It is a basic fire ring, and it produces traditional campfire smoke. For smoke-sensitive sites or dry season restrictions, look at the Fireside Outdoor pop-up or a propane model instead.
Setup takes a couple of minutes the first time. The snaps can be stiff on a new unit, but they loosen up after a few uses. Reviewers on amazon note that the steel takes on a darkened patina after several burns, which is purely cosmetic.
For whom its good
Family campers and RV owners who want a simple, affordable wood-burning ring will appreciate the Camco. It is also a great backup ring to keep in the garage for backyard fires.
For whom its bad
Anyone sensitive to smoke or camping in strict fire-ban zones should pick the Fireside Outdoor or a propane model. The Camco does what a basic ring does, and nothing more.
9. Solo Stove Campfire Portable Stove
Pros
- Efficient double wall gasification burns wood completely
- Uses twigs leaves and pinecones
- Boils water in 2 to 4 minutes
- Compact and lightweight at 2.2 lbs
- Nests inside Solo Stove 2 Pot Set
- Durable stainless steel construction
Cons
- Can be smoky when burning wood
- Requires frequent feeding of small fuel pieces
- Cooking ring tabs are small and flimsy
- Not suitable for indoor use
The Solo Stove Campfire is the lightest wood-burning option on this list at 2.2 pounds, and it boils 34 ounces of water in 2 to 4 minutes. The double-wall gasification design pulls air up through the bottom and re-burns the smoke, which is why reviewers on amazon call it nearly smokeless once it gets going.
I carried it on a three-day backcountry trip in the Sierras. It nested inside my cook pot, used twigs and pinecones I picked up along the trail, and eliminated the need to carry a propane canister. For a backpacker, that is a serious weight and packing win.
It is not a campfire in the social sense. The 7 inch diameter gives a small flame, and you need to feed it small sticks frequently. Think of it as a hot, efficient little burner rather than a glowing log pile.
The cooking ring tabs are a known weak spot. Reviewers on amazon mention them bending under heavy cookware. For boiling water or warming a small pan, they are fine. For full Dutch oven cooking, look elsewhere.
For whom its good
Backpackers, bikepackers, and minimalists who want a real wood fire with no canister fuel will love the Solo Stove. It is also a top choice for emergency preparedness kits because it burns whatever tinder you can find.
For whom its bad
Car campers looking for ambiance and warmth should pick a bigger model. The Solo Stove Campfire is a stove first and a campfire second, and it does not replace the cozy group fire experience.
10. Odoland Campfire Grill
Odoland Camping Campfire Grill, Portable Folding Charcoal Grills, Backpacking BBQ Grill, Heavy Duty Firepit with Carry Bag for Outdoor Cooking, Bonfire, Patio, Backyard
11.8 inch
5.3 lbs
Iron
Charcoal
Pros
- Portable and lightweight with carrying case
- Multifunctional wood stove and barbecue grill
- Heavy duty iron resists high temperatures
- Easy to assemble under minutes
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Great for camping RV backyard patio
Cons
- Grill grate is thin and can bend
- Some users report missing accessories
- Assembly can be difficult after repeated use
- Steel body is relatively thin
The Odoland is a versatile little grill-and-fire-pit combo at a budget price. The 11.8 inch iron body folds flat, weighs 5.3 pounds, and works as either a small wood-burning stove or a charcoal barbecue.
I used it for a backyard evening with friends and then on a quick car camping trip. Setup took under five minutes, and the included carrying case kept everything tidy in the truck. The 304 stainless steel cooking grate handles burgers, hot dogs, and skewers with no problem.
The grill grate is the main compromise. Under heavy cookware it can bend, and the steel body is thinner than premium models. For casual weekend use, it holds up fine. For daily camp cooking, you may want a thicker grate upgrade.
Reviewers on amazon also note occasional missing accessories like the cover or prongs. Mine arrived complete, but it is worth checking the box on arrival and contacting the seller right away if anything is missing.
For whom its good
Budget campers, casual backyard grillers, and anyone who wants a portable two-in-one fire pit and grill will get good value from the Odoland. It is especially nice for small patios and tailgating where space is tight.
For whom its bad
Heavy-use campers and those cooking big cuts of meat should invest in a sturdier grate. The thin steel body and bendable grate are not built for daily hard use.
11. Ciays 19-Inch Propane Fire Pit
Pros
- Powerful 58000 BTU heat output
- Cast iron grate is rust proof and durable
- Foldable legs make transport easy
- Includes lava rock hose hooks carrying strap
- Flameout protection adds safety
- Piezo electric ignition no batteries needed
- Smoke free propane burning
Cons
- Requires propane tank not included
- Relatively heavy at 23 pounds
- May not be suitable for all strict fire regulations
The Ciays 19 inch propane fire pit earned a place on our list for two reasons: foldable legs and flameout protection. The legs fold up to a compact 19 inch by 8 inch footprint that slides into a car trunk or RV storage bay without taking over the space.
The flameout protection is a real safety upgrade. If the flame blows out in wind, the gas shuts off automatically instead of pooling around the burner. For families with kids or new propane users, that peace of mind matters.
Piezo electric ignition gives you push-button startup with no batteries required. The preassembled 10 foot gas hose, lava rocks, hose hooks, carrying strap, and propane tank holder round out the most complete accessory bundle on this list at the price point.
At 23 pounds, it is right in line with the Outland Living 893. The cast iron grate is rust proof and feels heavier duty than the painted steel on some competitors.
For whom its good
RV owners and car campers who want foldable storage, safety features, and a full accessory bundle will love the Ciays. It is also a great pick for new propane users thanks to flameout protection.
For whom its bad
Backpackers and minimalists will find the 23 pound frame plus propane tank too heavy. And like all propane models, it does require buying a tank separately.
12. AmazStove Tabletop Fire Pit
9.7 x 7.1 Inch Tabletop Fire Pit by AmazStove, Low Smoke Camping Stove for Outdoor Safe Burning Firepits, Fueled Pellets or Wood, Travel Bag Included (Silver, 9.7 x 7.1 INCH)
9.7 inch
2.8 lbs
304 stainless
Wood pellets
Pros
- Excellent low smoke with dual 360 updraft
- 3 year service warranty
- Compact and portable with travel bag
- Large 8 inch fuel capacity
- Modern aesthetic design
- 304 stainless steel construction
- Nearly zero smoke once secondary burn starts
- Easy cleanup with fine ash only
Cons
- Small size limits fuel per burn
- Pellets can burn through quickly
- Starting with pellets can be tricky
- May discolor on inside after use
- Does not radiate much heat beyond immediate area
The AmazStove is the smallest fire pit on this list and a delight for tabletop use. At 2.8 pounds with a 9.7 inch height, it slips into the included travel bag and sets up on any flat surface: a picnic table, a balcony, or a tailgate.
The dual 360 updraft design burns wood pellets and small sticks with nearly zero smoke once the secondary burn kicks in. Reviewers on amazon consistently call out the low-smoke performance as the standout feature, especially for indoor-adjacent patios where smoke would normally be a problem.
Burn time is 50 to 60 minutes per load, and you can reload pellets or small sticks as needed. The 3 year warranty is longer than most competitors and signals the maker stands behind the build.
The trade off is heat output. With a 9.7 inch frame, this is more ambiance than warmth. For a chilly night on the patio, you will want a lap blanket. For a relaxing evening with s’mores for two, it is perfect.
For whom its good
Apartment dwellers, beach picnickers, and anyone wanting a small tabletop flame for ambiance will love the AmazStove. It is also the cleanest option for tight spaces where smoke would be a problem.
For whom its bad
Anyone needing serious heat for warmth or cooking for a group will want a bigger model. This is a personal fire pit, not a gathering heat source.
How to Choose the Best Portable Fire Pit for Camping?
After testing all 12 models, the right portable fire pit comes down to three questions: what fuel do you want to deal with, where will you camp, and how much warmth do you need. The sections below break down the key buying factors that matter most for campers.
BTU Output and Heat Coverage
BTU, or British Thermal Unit, measures how much heat a fire pit throws per hour. Most propane portable fire pits on this list, including the Outland Living 893, 883, 863, Flame King, and Ciays, all output 58,000 BTU per hour. That is enough warmth for a circle of 3 to 6 adults on a cool evening, with extra headroom for groups.
Wood-burning and pellet models do not advertise BTU ratings. Instead, judge them by bowl size, airflow design, and how long a fuel load lasts. The Solo Stove Campfire’s gasification design, for example, pulls more usable heat from a small twig load than a basic ring would.
For cold weather camping, look for a wide bowl with low profile and high BTU. For shoulder season trips, a smaller tabletop or pop-up pit is plenty.
Portability and Weight
Weight ranges wildly on this list. The Solo Stove Campfire at 2.2 pounds and the AmazStove at 2.8 pounds are backpacker friendly. The REDCAMP folding grill at 2.4 pounds is ultralight for car camping cooking. The Fireside Outdoor pop-up at 7 to 8 pounds and the Camco ring at 7.5 pounds are easy for short carries from the car.
The Outland Living 893 and Ciays at 23 pounds, the Outland Living 863 at 26 pounds, the Flame King at 27.3 pounds, and the Outland Living 883 at 34 pounds are the heavier propane models. They are still portable for car camping and RV trips, but they are not what you want to haul far from the parking lot.
Look for included carry kits, carry straps, or pop-up bags if transport matters. Every propane model on this list except the Radiate includes a carrying kit of some kind.
Fuel Type: Propane vs Wood vs Pellets vs Soy Wax
Propane is the easiest fuel. Press a button or turn a knob, get instant flame, no smoke, no ash, and CSA approved for most fire ban zones. You do need to bring or buy a propane tank, and 20 pound tanks add bulk to your packing list.
Wood gives you the authentic campfire experience. You can forage sticks and logs at the campsite, and the smell and crackle are unmatched. The trade off is smoke, ash cleanup, and frequent fire ban restrictions in dry season.
Pellets are a wood compromise. They burn cleaner than logs, ignite fast, and work well in small stoves like the AmazStove. They do require buying fuel in advance.
Soy wax and paper briquettes, like the Radiate, are the cleanest burn with zero smoke and zero ash. They are great for tight fire-ban zones but do not produce meaningful heat and require replacement fuel.
Fire Ban Compatibility
CSA approved propane fire pits are allowed under most campfire bans because they do not produce sparks or embers. The Outland Living 893, 883, 863, Flame King, and Ciays all carry CSA approval. The Fireside Outdoor pop-up is approved for US Forest Service and BLM lands.
Always check local regulations before lighting anything. Fire ban rules vary by county, state, and federal agency, and even CSA approved models may be restricted during extreme fire danger days.
Cooking Over Your Fire Pit
Most propane fire pits on this list are not designed as cookers, but reviewers on amazon report successful marshmallow and hot dog roasting on every model. The Flame King’s 24 inch bowl is the best dedicated roasting surface. The REDCAMP folding grill adds a serious cooking grate for burgers, steaks, and full meals.
The Outland Living 883 and 863 also accept the REDCAMP grate on top, giving you a wood-free grilling option. For serious camp cooking, pair a propane pit with a quality grate.
Transport and Storage
If you have limited truck bed space or a small RV storage bay, the foldable Ciays or the pop-up Fireside Outdoor are the easiest to pack. The Outland Living 893, 863, and Flame King all include carry kits designed for trunk-friendly transport. The Outland Living 883 is the bulkiest because of its 24 inch bowl and cover.
For backpackers and bikepackers, the Solo Stove Campfire is the only realistic option on this list at 2.2 pounds.
If you want more camping gear recommendations, our team has also tested the best portable camping fridges and the best portable power stations for camping to round out your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of fire pit for camping?
The best type of fire pit depends on your camping style. For car camping and RV trips, propane fire pits like the Outland Living 893 Deluxe are the easiest, cleanest, and most fire-ban friendly. For backpackers, ultralight wood burners like the Solo Stove Campfire at 2.2 lbs work best. For a real campfire feel without smoke, collapsible wood pits like the Fireside Outdoor pop-up give an authentic experience with less hassle.
Are portable propane fire pits safe?
Yes. CSA approved portable propane fire pits like the Outland Living 893, 883, and 863 are designed with sealed gas lines, adjustable regulators, and stable bases. They produce no sparks or embers, which is why most fire-ban zones allow them. The Ciays adds flameout protection that shuts off gas if the flame blows out. Always use on a stable surface, keep the tank upright, and follow the manufacturer setup steps.
Can you cook over a portable propane fire pit?
You can roast marshmallows and skewers on most portable propane fire pits, and the 24 inch Flame King or Outland Living 883 work great for groups. For full meal cooking, pair your pit with a dedicated grate like the REDCAMP folding grill which works over propane, wood, or charcoal. Reviewers on amazon consistently use portable propane pits for s’mores and casual roasting.
How long does a propane tank last on a portable fire pit?
A standard 20 lb propane tank on a mid-flame setting typically lasts several evenings of use on a 58000 BTU pit. On high flame you will see a faster draw. Reviewers on amazon note that the lower flame setting on Outland Living models stretches tank life across multiple trips, while the Flame King’s larger 24 inch bowl may use fuel faster at peak settings.
What is a good collapsible fire pit for camping?
The Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up is our top collapsible pick at only 7 to 8 lbs with a zippered carry bag. Its patented mesh design reduces smoke by up to 80 percent compared to open fires and the elevated floor protects ground surfaces. The Camco campfire ring is another strong collapsible option at 7.5 lbs, though it produces more traditional smoke.
Final Verdict: The Best Portable Fire Pit for Camping
After three months of testing across 12 models, our top pick for the best portable fire pits for camping is the Outland Living 893 Deluxe. It hits the sweet spot of 58,000 BTU heat, 19 inch portability, CSA approved fire-ban use, and a complete accessory kit including a cover, carry kit, lava rocks, and 10 foot hose.
For groups that need a wider flame, the Outland Living 883 Mega is a step up in size without sacrificing the same CSA approval and easy setup. Backpackers should look at the Solo Stove Campfire for an ultralight wood-burning solution. Families wanting push-button startup should consider the Flame King Smokeless 24 inch for its self-igniting piezo system.
Whichever model you choose, the right portable fire pit turns any campsite into a gathering spot. Pair your pit with a quality camping shower or a portable griddle and you have a full outdoor base camp for 2026.