The campfire is the heart of any campsite: it warms you, cooks your food, and adds ambiance to evening conversations. However, stacking logs without the proper technique can result in a fire that quickly dies out or smokes excessively. As someone who’s been lighting fires in the wild for years, I’m sharing three effective methods you can use with basic materials. Let’s get started!
1. Stable Fire with the V-Notch Method
This method ensures a steady burn and good airflow, making the logs burn for a long time.
- Prepare the Materials
- 2–3 logs about 1.5–2 meters long and fairly thick
- An axe or hatchet
- Fine shavings and small twigs (kindling)
- Notch the Logs
- Use the axe to flatten one face of a log.
- Cut V-shaped notches into the flattened face. These notches allow air to flow underneath the fuel. Save the shavings!
- Set Up the Logs
- Place the V-notched log between stones or sturdy branches about 25–30 cm off the ground, with the flattened face up.
- Lean two smaller sticks vertically against each end of the notched log, creating a triangular air channel.
- Ignite and Secure
- Fill the channel with shavings and kindling, then ignite.
- Secure the main log by staking around it. As the fire grows, the log will slowly burn, and the airflow will keep it blazing for a long time.
2. Long-Lasting Fire with the Pyramid Technique
The “top-burning” pyramid fire burns slowly and steadily; if you want your campfire to stay alive all evening, try this:
- Prepare the Layers
- Large logs at the base layer
- Medium-sized sticks in the middle layer
- Fine twigs and shavings at the top
- Stack Them
- Lay the base logs side by side.
- Rotate the next layer of logs 90° relative to the previous layer.
- Ensure there is space for air at each layer and maintain the pyramid shape.
- Ignite and Feed
- Light the shavings at the top. The flame will spread downward, burning slowly and evenly.
- As the fire strengthens, the logs will ignite in sequence, reducing the need to add more wood.
3. Double-Log Method: Easy Fire without Tools
If you don’t have an axe or saw, you can still build a campfire effortlessly with this method:
- Place the Logs Side by Side
- Lay two large logs parallel on the ground, spaced no more than 5–6 cm apart.
- Build the Upper Structure
- Similar to the V-notch technique, lay 2–3 smaller sticks across each log and wedge fine twigs between them.
- Add Shavings and Ignite
- Fill the gaps with plenty of shavings and small brush.
- Ignite the shavings; the flame will gradually work its way from the shavings into the logs.
Safety & Tips
- Keep a Water Bucket Handy: Be prepared to extinguish embers or clear nearby ground with water or soil.
- Assess the Wind: Consider wind direction and choose a sheltered spot.
- Collect the Ashes: When putting out the fire, stir the coals, wet them thoroughly with water, and make sure no smoke remains.
Remember, a well-planned campfire will keep you warm and enhance your bond with nature. Try these three methods on your next outdoor adventure to see which works best for you!
