How to Make an In-ground Firepit

Fire pits are useful at campsites or other outdoor settings.

The ability to make an in-ground fire pit is a useful skill when camping or enjoying other outdoor activities, such as roasting hot dogs or cooking s'mores. A flickering outdoor fire helps keep you warm and creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Many people who don't feel comfortable singing in a crowd will do so while gathered around an outdoor fire pit. Whether you live in the country or plan to go on a rugged camping trip, building an in-ground fire pit enables you to stay warm, dry, and cook food.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Fireplace metal grate

Instructions

1. Dig a hole in a flat area that has gravel, dry dirt or sand. Make it about 2 to 3 feet in diameter, unless you are using a grill grate. Make the hole diameter 3 or 4 inches less than the size of the grill grate if you will be cooking on top of the grate.

2. Shovel the dirt until the hole is deep enough that the top of the flames will be 2 to 4 inches from the top of the grate. This enables the flames to heat the food, but not burn it. If you are not using a grill grate, dig the hole deep enough to leave an impression in the ground. This helps prevent the fire from spreading by a sudden wind gust.

3. Place large rocks or bricks around the edge of the hole. This will support the grill grate and also help keep the fire contained if not using a grate.

4. Stack your firewood and kindling into the fire pit.

5. Light the wood with a match or lighter.

6. Place the grill grate carefully on top of the rock ledge you created.

Tips & Warnings

• Place your fire pit in an area free of flammable materials, such as dry leaves or low-hanging branches on a tree. Clear the area first, if necessary. This prevents the fire from getting out of control.

• Do not hold a can of lighter fluid or gasoline while attempting to start the fire. The can may explode or ignite causing serious or fatal injuries.

• Keep a bucket of water near your fire-pit to extinguish it once you are finished with the fire. Never leave a fire unattended.

References

• The Firepit and Grilling Guru: How to Build a Stone Fire Pit or Campfire