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The recent spike in gas prices has led to many homeowners swapping their gas fire pits for wood-burning ones, with real wood replacing pricey propane. But it’s not just a costing thing either — when it comes to ambience and warmth, a good wood fire pit can deliver a ton of versatility and value.
The best wood-burning fire pits make an excellent addition for backyards, patios and parties, and instantly add atmosphere to the outdoor space in your home. Plus without the need for propane, you’re free to control the flames purely with wood, whether using store-bought logs or ones you’ve chopped yourself (and even fallen sticks and twigs from the yard).
Wood-Burning Fire Pit Buying Guide
Here’s what to know before buying a wood-burning fire pit for your house.
Materials and Assembly: Typically you’ll find that most wood fire pits have a bronze or steel finish. While the main unit is large and intact, it’s the base that usually requires some putting together. They’re about as difficult as any average shelf or furniture you might order online, and some can even be done without tools. A mesh, flame-retardant top panel can help prevent sparks from going rogue, and an open grate keeps the oxygen flowing to feed the flames.
Size: The latest wood fire pits vary significantly in terms of size, so make sure you have a general idea of where it’s going to sit before buying. Some are better-suited for a small group of 2-4 people sitting in a close circle, while others (especially with open tops) may be too intense and better suited for a large space where a bigger group can have some distance to move back.
Smokeless: One of the most annoying things that ruins an otherwise enjoyable campfire is smoke burning your eyes, stinking up your clothes, and somehow following you no matter what seat you switch to. You’ll notice that some fire pits are now advertising as “smokeless,” but are they really? Sort of. Instead of smoke-less, a better descriptor might be “less smoke.” It won’t be zero, but it definitely is a noticeable difference.
Secondary combustion is a feature that cuts way down on the amount of smoke produced if you keep the fire well-fed. This causes the smoke to travel straight up, instead of out, and burn off all the debris that would usually contribute to causing the most smoke. It may increase the price of the unit, but we think it’s well worth it.
Bonus: Some accessories, like a cooking grate, turn your wood-burning fire pit into an instant barbecue, allowing you to cook food whenever there’s flames hot enough. You’ll also want a poker that’s at least a few feet long to safely tend the flames and rearrange the wood. Holes provide water draining for the rainy days it’ll be sitting outside, and ultimately can help prolong the life of the unit, keeping it burning for years ahead.
What Are the Best Wood-Burning Fire Pits?
We’ve rounded up some of the top-rated wood-burning fire pits that you can buy online right now.
