Fire pits are a safe and easy way to create the rustic feeling of a campfire in your backyard, patio, or deck. Used year-round, a fire pit offers a cozy focal point outdoors where family and friends can come together. With so many options to choose from, read our guide to learn more about the types of fire pits available and how to find the right one for you.

Types of Fire Pits

Fire Pit: A fire pit is a wood- or gas-burning structure that is designed to safely contain a fire. They are made from a variety of materials and come in many shapes and designs.

Fire-Pit Table: A fire-pit table is gas-burning and sit up higher than traditional fire pits. They are designed to have the fire in the middle of the table with space to put drinks or food around it. For more details on this type of fire pit, check out our guide, Everything You Need to Know About Fire Pit Tables.

Fire Ring: While similar to a fire pit, a fire ring is used to contain a fire that has been built on the ground. It is round and keeps the campfire from spreading. Fire rings are best used on flat, level ground and away from buildings and overhanging trees. It should also be placed on nonflammable surfaces like gravel, dirt, sand, and stone.

Pagodas: Pagodas are freestanding fire pits, inspired by Asian architecture, that keep the fire enclosed. Typically square in shape, pagodas have a curved roof and chimney to let the smoke escape from the top. The fire is enclosed by mesh screens on all sides, helping to keep sparks contained. With a square shape and see-through screens, the fire can be enjoyed on all sides.

Fuel Types

Fire pits can be fueled in a variety of ways. While wood-burning fire pits are the most common, there are other options that will require less cleanup.

Wood: The most popular fuel source we see in most fire pits is wood. Wood is natural, generates warmth, is fairly inexpensive, and gives you the nostalgic glow and smell of a campfire. However, wood-burning fire pits produce more smoke and can be harder to get started and maintain. Be sure to have a stack of wood nearby in case the fire starts to go out.

Charcoal: Charcoal fire pits are great if you are looking to cook food over your fire pit. Charcoal will give your food a similar texture and taste of a charcoal grill. This material produces a controlled, even heat with a smaller flame, making it less intimidating to handle.

Propane: These fire pits have propane tanks attached to them, often making them portable. A propane fire pit gives you more control over the fire than a classic wood or charcoal fire pit. Keep in mind – propane doesn't produce the same amount of heat and warmth.

Natural Gas: Fire pits that run on natural gas generally need to be built in and connected to a natural gas line located in your home. Natural gas is significantly less expensive than other fuel options but may cost more upfront, as it must be installed by a professional.

Bioethanol: Bioethanol is a biodegradable, clean-burning, and efficient fuel that emits no smoke, ash, or embers. It is a pourable liquid, letting you continuously refill the burner pan to keep the fire going for as long as you need. It is an excellent option if you want to add ambience, but it does not produce a lot of warmth.

Gel: Fire pits with a gel fuel type get their heat from cans of isopropyl alcohol gel. These cans will burn for about two to three hours and don't create soot, ash, or smoke and it only produces a small amount of carbon monoxide. This fuel type can even be used for indoor fire pits, as long as the space is well ventilated.

Fire Pit Materials

Fire pits are available in various materials, and the material you choose will depend on where and how often you will use it. From steel to stone, there is a fire material that will fit your needs.

Steel: Steel fire pits often use a corrosion-resistant metal to coat the fire pit, making for an extra-durable fire pit when handling the elements. The steel material makes the fire pit lightweight, making it easy to pick up and move.

Cast Iron: For a classic but rustic choice, opt for a cast-iron fire pit. It is sturdy and heavy, giving you peace of mind knowing that it won’t be easily knocked over. Cast iron is an excellent heat conductor and is efficient at spreading heat.

Aluminum: Aluminum is a popular option for fire pits. It is affordable, lightweight, and durable. It requires little maintenance and is heat-conductive.

Stone: For masonry detailing, opt for a stone fire pit. Stone fire pits are a great way to tie in materials that are used in your outdoor home decor (like brick or stone detailing). While it isn’t susceptible to rust, the stones can crack if exposed to extreme changes in temperatures.

Stainless Steel: This material boasts a modern, industrial look, stainless-steel fire pits are durable, lightweight, and one of the best fire pits for handling the outdoor elements.

Copper: Copper offers a warm, shiny look to a fire pit, creating a touch of warmth to your backyard or patio. As it sits outside, it can develop a green-like patina. If you want to keep the original copper color, you’ll need to clean and maintain your fire pit frequently.

Concrete: Whether made from poured concrete or concrete blocks, this heavy material offers durability and strength while being a low-maintenance option. Concrete is heavy, so be sure to place it in an area you want it for the foreseeable future.

Clay: Clay fire pits cool off quickly and tend to be constructed as one piece, making it easy to move around. Because they cool off quickly, you won’t have to worry about getting burns after the fire is out.

Fire Pit Features

Spark Screen Included: A spark screen keeps burning embers and sparks inside of the fire pit. The protective screen helps to block sparks, giving you peace of mind while enjoying the fire. Spark screens are essential if you’re hosting a lot of people around the fire, or have small children or pets.

Gas-Conversion Kit Included: If you’re looking for the ability to change to gas for your fire pit at some point, opt for a fire pit with a gas-conversion kit included. This kit can manually adjust your fire pit to run on gas. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions to manually adjust it properly.

Portable: If you find yourself moving your firepit around your backyard often or traveling with it, opt for a portable fire pit. It will be lightweight and smaller in size, allowing you to move it around with ease, no matter where you plan to enjoy the fire.

Hidden Fuel Tank: If you don’t like the look of a fuel tank attached to your fire pit, opt for a fire pit with a hidden fuel tank. Once the fire pit is assembled, the fuel tank is hidden within, so guests won’t even notice it is there. While still easily accessible, it will help keep the focus on your fire pit.

Smokeless: A smokeless fire pit is designed to burn the wood more efficiently and at a higher temperature that it reduces the amount of smoke produced.

Tip!

The placement of your fire pit is crucial for safety. Place your fire pit at least 10 feet away from your home or any other structures and trees in your yard. Giving enough space between your fire pit and other items will keep them from getting too warm. Be sure to check in with your city’s rules and regulations on setting up a fire pit in your yard.

Fire pits are a fun outdoor activity that can get everyone involved or simply be enjoyed by two. Many fire pits include different features and materials all in one plus more extras. Check out all of our fire pit options to find the best fire pit for your needs.