How to Build a Campfire

Presented by John Stewart

Building a campfire requires the right space, kindling and a flame source. Learn how to build a campfire from an Eagle Scout in this free outdoor activity video series.

Series Summary

Camping is an outdoor recreational activity in which the participants, known as campers, leave civilization behind and enjoy nature while spending one or more nights at a campsite. Camping may involve the use of a tent, a primitive structure, or no shelter at all. Camping as a recreational activity became popular in the early 20th century, and many campers frequent national parks, other publicly owned natural areas, and privately owned campgrounds. Camping may be its own activity, but it's commonly done in conjunction with other activities, such as hiking, swimming, and fishing. Whether it's the dead of winter or the dog days of summer, a campsite almost always requires a fire for cooking, warmth, light, or simply to scare off some wild animals. In this free video series, an Eagle Scout will demonstrate how to build a campfire from picking out an area to arranging kindling and sparking a flame. With these tips and techniques, any camper will be able to start their own campfire and keep it going through the night.

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Sparking a Campfire Flame

Starting a campfire is easiest with a lighter, matches, or a magnesium stick with flint. Learn how to spark a campfire flame from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

Arranging Wood for a Campfire

A proper layout of campfire wood and logs will help to keep the fire burning. Learn how to arrange wood for a campfire from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

How to Keep a Fire Going

Always let a campfire burn slowly so that a wood supply isn't wasted. Learn how to keep a fire going from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

How to Build a Fire Pit

A fire pit or containment ring is needed to contain a campfire. Learn how to build a fire pit from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

How to Put Out a Campfire

Put out a campfire completely and make sure that the coals on the bottom have cooled. Learn how to put out a campfire from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

Different Types of Campfires

There are different types of campfires for cooking, keeping warm, lighting an area, and making a signal. Learn about different types of campfires from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

What Not to Burn in a Campfire

Burning trash can put pollutants into the air at a campsite. Learn what not to burn in a campfire from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

How to Use a Fire Signal

A signal fire should be in an open area so that the smoke can rise. Learn how to use a fire signal from an Eagle Scout in this free camping video.

How to Build a Campfire

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