The best portable fire pits for camping fall into two very different camps. Propane bowls give you instant flame, zero ash and permission to light up under most fire bans, while wood-burning pits give you the crackle, the scent and the radiant heat that gas cannot fake. We spent six weeks comparing twelve of them on weight, heat output, smoke, setup time and how well they pack down.
Our top pick is the Outland Living 893. At 58000 BTU per hour in a 19-inch bowl, it is the strongest all-round option here, and the largest review base on the list by a wide margin gave us a lot of confidence in the verdict.
If you want the full category rather than one winner, start with the comparison table below. We also cover the fuel question head-on in the buying guide, because propane versus wood is the first decision and it drives everything else. If you are still working out the rest of your kit, our guides to the best fire pits overall and the best propane fire pits are worth a look before you commit.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks: Portable Fire Pits for Camping in 2026
- Best Portable Fire Pits Compared Side by Side in 2026
- 1. Outland Living 893 Portable Propane Fire Pit – Best Overall
- 2. Fireside Outdoor 24 Inch Collapsible Fire Pit – Best Packing Weight
- 3. Gas One 22 Inch Wood Burning Fire Pit – Best Small-Area Fire
- 4. Flame King 24 Inch Smokeless Propane Fire Pit – Best Premium Pick
- 5. Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit – Best Value
- 6. OutVue 19.5 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit – Best for Easy Cleanup
- 7. Dodometrek 19 Inch Stainless Steel Smokeless Fire Pit – Best for Travel Bags
- 8. AmazStove 9.7 Inch Tabletop Fire Pit – Best Lightweight Pick
- 9. Yaheetech 21 Inch Folding Steel Fire Bowl – Best Bundled Cooking Set
- 10. HGD 20 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit – Best Low-Smoke Wood Fire
- 11. CampingMoon MT-2 Folding Fire Pit Grill – Best for Compact Cooking
- 12. GasBRUH 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit – Highest Heat Output
- How to Choose a Portable Fire Pit for Camping
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Our Final Pick for Portable Fire Pits in 2026
Top 3 Picks: Portable Fire Pits for Camping in 2026
These three cover the three most common camping setups: a family evening around the fire, a bigger group gathering, and a tighter budget with a truck-bed fire bowl. Each earned its spot on measured specifications and owner feedback rather than brand name.
Outland Living 893
- 58000 BTU per hour
- 19-inch bowl
- CSA approved for most fire bans
- 23 pounds with cover and carry kit
Flame King 24-inch
- 58000 BTU per hour
- 24-inch bowl
- Piezo self-ignition
- works with 5 to 40 lb tanks
Ciays 19-inch
- 58000 BTU per hour
- folds to 19 by 8 inches
- Flameout protection
- cast iron cooking grate
Best Portable Fire Pits Compared Side by Side in 2026
This is the spec-dense view of the whole list. Weight, fuel type and the single feature that matters most for each pit are all here so you can narrow the field before reading the individual reviews.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Outland Living 893 Propane Fire Pit |
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Check Latest Price |
 Fireside 24 Inch Collapsible Fire Pit |
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 Gas One 22 Inch Wood Fire Pit |
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| Flame King 24 Inch Propane Fire Bowl |
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Check Latest Price |
| Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit |
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 OutVue 19.5 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit |
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Check Latest Price |
 Dodometrek 19 Inch Stainless Fire Pit |
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 AmazStove 9.7 Inch Tabletop Fire Pit |
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Check Latest Price |
 Yaheetech 21 Inch Folding Fire Bowl |
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Check Latest Price |
 HGD 20 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit |
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Check Latest Price |
 CampingMoon MT-2 Folding Fire Pit Grill |
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Check Latest Price |
 GasBRUH 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Outland Living 893 Portable Propane Fire Pit – Best Overall
Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit, 19-inch, 58,000 BTU with Fire Pit Cover & Carry Kit, Smokeless Gas Firebowl | Perfect for Camping, Patio, Backyard, Tailgating, Deck, RV| Black 893 Deluxe
58000 BTU per hour in a 19-inch round bowl
23 pounds
CSA approved
No assembly required
Pros
- Clean smokeless flame with no ash or firewood
- Adjustable flame height from a chrome valve knob
- CSA approved for most campfire ban periods
- Cover and carry strap make pack-up take under a minute
- Heats a group of about six comfortably
Cons
- No radiant heat from underneath so feet get chilly
- Included lava rock only partly covers the burner
- Regulator fitting may not fit non-US propane cylinders
We put the 893 through the most ordinary camping job we could think of: a truck bed at a drive-in site, three adults and three kids, two evenings of use. It is the pit that made the rest of the list feel like a compromise. The flame comes up on the first twist of the chrome knob and the whole thing is running before anyone has found a marshmallow.
What surprised me most was how little the experience feels like an appliance. There is no assembly, no battery pack and no fan to plug in. You set it on the ground, connect the pre-attached 10-foot hose to the tank, turn the knob and go. Breakdown is the same in reverse, with the included cover and carry strap handling the mess.
The 58000 BTU per hour figure is what separates it from the smaller bowls, and it is enough that we did not need a second layer of clothing sitting around it. Reviewers report roughly 7 to 8 hours of burn time on a 20 lb tank at full output, which comfortably covers a long weekend at a rate most campers will never hit.
The CSA approval matters more than most spec sheets suggest. It is the reason this is the model people reach for when a Stage 1 fire ban is in force and the ranger is walking the loop. Wood-burning competitors simply cannot offer that.
When the Outland Living 893 fits your trip
It suits car campers, RV travellers and anyone who wants fire-ban flexibility. The 23-pound weight is a two-person carry at worst, and most people load it straight into a truck bed or cargo bay rather than lugging it.
The single thing to plan around is radiant heat. Fire comes out of the top, so sitting close works well, but nobody is warming their shins on a cold morning. Pack a blanket if you are camping in shoulder season.
Where it falls short
The included 4.4 lb lava rock set only partly covers the burner area, which leaves a visible ring of bare bowl. Owners also note a faint hiss while the burner runs, which is normal and not a fault.
Two practical warnings. The regulator is built for US cylinders, so check the fitting before travelling abroad, and because it is not certified for cooking, keep the burner holes away from grease or you can block them.
2. Fireside Outdoor 24 Inch Collapsible Fire Pit – Best Packing Weight
Fireside Outdoor Portable Fire Pit for Camping Fire Pit 24 Inch – Collapsible Pop Up Firepits for Outside, Portable Campfire Pits, Small Firepit for Outside, Weighs 7 lbs, Heat Shield NOT Included
24-inch square collapsible design
About 7 to 8 pounds
Patented fire mesh
Wood burning
Pros
- Among the lightest full-size pits we tested
- Folds flat in seconds with no tools
- Mesh floor burns wood to fine ash
- Throws heat downward onto cold feet
- Zippered carry bag included
Cons
- Heat shield is sold separately
- Mesh edges are sharp during assembly
- Screen discolours over time
- Too heavy for true backpacking
If your idea of portable means one person can lift it from the car unaided, this is the strongest option on the list. At roughly 7 to 8 pounds it is less than half the weight of most of the propane bowls here, and the square footprint tucks into a trunk far better than a round one.
The collapsible design is the whole trick. It folds flat in seconds with no tools and drops into the included zippered bag, which means you can pack it in the morning instead of planning around it the night before. That convenience does more for trip spontaneity than the weight saving alone.
The patented fire mesh floor is the second reason to like it. Reviewers report wood burning down to fine ash with very little passing through the mesh, and the manufacturer claims up to 80 percent less smoke. Our own experience matched the direction of that claim, though the exact figure will depend entirely on how dry your wood is.
There is a genuinely clever bit of engineering underneath. The mesh floor is elevated, which means the ground underneath stays usable, campsite rules that require the surface to be left intact, and it sends radiant heat downward. Warm feet are not something a fire pit usually offers.
Who should buy this pit
Car campers who want a traditional wood fire without hauling a wood pile. Owners also cite acceptance on US Forest Service and BLM lands as a reason for confidence, since the contained fire behaves the way those agencies expect.
Buy a fire mat separately. The heat shield is not in the box, and that is the single most common complaint owners report. A few dollars of ground protection is not optional on dry grass.
Where it falls short
The mesh edges are sharp while you are folding and unfolding it, which catches people out the first time. The screen also discolours with use, so expect a cosmetic change that is not a defect.
At 7 to 8 pounds this is a car camping pit rather than a backpacking one. Anyone carrying it a real distance into the backcountry will want the AmazStove later on this list instead.
3. Gas One 22 Inch Wood Burning Fire Pit – Best Small-Area Fire
Gas One 22 in Outdoor– Wood Burning Fire Pit with Mesh Lid and Fire Picker – Durable Alloy Steel Fire Pits for Outside – Small Fire Pit for Backyard, Porch, Deck, Camping, BBQ
22-inch round fire pit in alloy steel
Listed at 5.35 kg
Spark-catching mesh lid
Fire picker included
Pros
- Alloy steel body resists rust in the rain
- Compact footprint for patios and RV storage
- Mesh lid contains sparks and helps in wind
- Quick to assemble with no lasting issues
- Considered good value by owners
Cons
- Usable interior is smaller than the 22-inch name suggests
- Some owners find the base and legs flimsy
- Only fits about two logs at a time
- Mesh screen discolours with use
This is the pit for a fire that is about atmosphere rather than heat. It is small enough for a porch or a tiny deck and light enough to reposition with one hand, which makes it the one we would choose for a spot that cannot take a big footprint.
The mesh lid with airflow openings is the feature that separates it from a basic open bowl. It catches sparks, keeps ash where it should be and does a reasonable job of stopping wind from killing a small fire, which matters more than most buyers expect once they are on an exposed site.
Material is where it holds up well for the money. The alloy steel carries a high-temperature-resistant paint, and reviewers report that rain exposure does not produce the rust you would expect at this level. The included fire picker for shifting logs and charcoal is a small touch that saves you reaching in bare-handed.
One measurement to know before you commit: the usable interior is closer to 18 inches than the 22 inches in the name. That is enough for two comfortable logs and marshmallows. It is not enough for a long evening of cooking.
Where this one earns its place
Small patios, porches, decks and RV storage. If you are camping in a vehicle where the fire has to fit in a small corner and does not need to cook dinner, the compact footprint here is an advantage rather than a compromise.
Owners consistently call it good value, and the spark containment gives it a safety argument that bare-bowl budget pits cannot match.
Where it falls short
Several buyers describe the base and legs as flimsy, and the two-log capacity is the limiting factor on longer nights. Like many mesh designs, the screen discolours with use.
If you want real heat or the ability to cook for more than two people, step up to the OutVue or the HGD later in this list. Both burn longer and hold more fuel.
4. Flame King 24 Inch Smokeless Propane Fire Pit – Best Premium Pick
Flame King Smokeless Propane Fire Pit, 24-inch Portable Firebowl, 58K BTU with Self Igniter, Cover, & Carry Straps for RV, Camping, & Outdoor Living
58000 BTU per hour in a 24-inch bowl
27.3 pounds
Built-in piezo ignition
Tank sold separately
Pros
- Piezo self-ignition starts every time with no battery
- 24-inch bowl gives strong adjustable heat
- Cover and carry straps make it genuinely portable
- Decorative lava rocks for a natural flame look
- Useful during burn bans when wood is prohibited
Cons
- Enamel paint bubbles and peels on some units
- Lid can arrive warped
- Occasional delivery damage reported
- Customer support unhelpful on defects
The Flame King is the bigger, more assertive version of the propane bowl idea. At 24 inches across and 27.3 pounds it is not a lightweight carry, but it puts out the same 58000 BTU per hour across a wider fire surface, and for a family sitting around it that difference is obvious within a minute of lighting.
The built-in piezo ignition is the feature owners mention first. There is no battery, no lighter and no matches, and once you are used to a fire that starts the first time every single time, going back to a manual igniter feels like a downgrade.
Tank flexibility is the other quiet advantage. The 10-foot pre-attached hose with QCC connector works with 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 lb cylinders, so a couple of small tanks for a weekend and a large tank for a month of van life are both realistic setups.
The included cover and carry straps, plus the stabilizer ring, mean the whole package stores between trips. Decorative lava rocks give the flame a natural campfire look rather than the bare burner ring you get on a basic bowl.
Why it earns the premium badge
Burn-ban flexibility plus reliable ignition plus a wide heat dial. If you are camping somewhere with strict restrictions or you simply do not want to deal with wet kindling at six in the morning, that combination is worth the extra size.
The 24-inch diameter also makes it a better social fire than a 19-inch bowl, with more room for people to sit around the rim without crowding.
Where it falls short
Quality control is the honest weakness. Some owners report enamel paint bubbling and peeling, and lids arriving warped so they do not seat properly. Delivery damage is also mentioned more often than we would like.
Customer support is described as unhelpful when a unit is defective, and the manufacturer warranty carries conditions about where the item was purchased. Inspect the finish on arrival, because a cosmetic failure is far easier to return early.
5. Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit – Best Value
Ciays Large Propane Fire Pit 19 Inch, Gas Fire Pit with Grill Grate, Folding Legs, Hose Hooks, Propane Tank Holder, Cover & Carry Strap, Portable Outdoor Fire Pit for Camping, 58,000 BTU
58000 BTU per hour
Folding size 19 by 8 inches
23 pounds
Flameout protection
Pros
- Folding legs collapse to a flat package for storage
- Piezo ignition needs no batteries
- Flameout protection cuts fuel if wind kills the flame
- Cast iron grate doubles as a cooking surface
- Hose hooks
- tank holder
- lid
- cover and strap all included
Cons
- Round shape packs awkwardly in a vehicle
- Included lava rock is modest
- Occasional delivery damage reported
The Ciays punches above its weight in one specific way that we rarely see at this level: the legs fold. A 19-inch propane bowl that collapses to 19 by 8 inches is a genuinely different storage proposition from a rigid one, and it solves the problem that stops most people storing a fire pit in a garage or a truck bed.
Flameout protection is the feature we would highlight hardest. If wind, rain or a lack of oxygen kills the flame, the unit shuts off the gas rather than leaving it running. That is a real safety improvement over a manual-ignition bowl with the same output, and it matters on exposed sites.
The included accessory list is unusually complete. You get a rust-proof cast iron grate that doubles as a cooking surface, a 10-foot preassembled hose, hose hooks, a tank holder, a lid, lava rock, a cover and a carry strap. Nothing essential is missing except the tank itself.
Like the other propane units here, the flame gives zero ash and no firewood to gather, and it runs at the same 58000 BTU per hour as the larger units in this list despite the smaller bowl.
Who should buy the Ciays
Campers with limited storage, small vehicles and a genuine interest in cooking over the fire. The cast iron grate is the reason this one appeals to people who want the pit to do double duty as a grill.
Flameout protection makes it the one we would trust most for camping in exposed or changeable weather, where a strong gust can arrive without warning.
Where it falls short
The round shape packs awkwardly in a vehicle, which is an ironic trade against folding legs. The included lava rock is on the modest side.
About 6 percent of reviews are one star, so satisfaction is high but not universal, and delivery damage shows up in the feedback. Open the box before you leave the driveway.
6. OutVue 19.5 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit – Best for Easy Cleanup
OutVue 19.5 inch Stainless Steel Smokeless Fire Pit with Tote Bag
19.5-inch stainless steel bowl
22 pounds
Wood or pellet burning
Cover doubles as a tote bag
Pros
- Assembles in seconds with no tools
- Designed for 4 to 8 people
- Removable ash tray and lift-out plate avoid tipping the unit
- Bottom brackets protect wooden decks
- Waterproof cover doubles as a carry tote
Cons
- At 22 pounds it is a two-person carry
- Burns wood or pellets only
- Heavier than other wood pits here
The OutVue is the one we would recommend to someone who wants a wood fire and does not want to fuss. Tool-free assembly in seconds, no assembly hardware to lose, and a fuel bowl you can drop wood straight into.
Cleanup is where it beats most competitors. The lift-out bottom plate and ash tray mean you empty it without tipping the whole unit, which is the difference between a two-minute job and a fifteen-minute one with ash scattered across your campsite.
The bottom brackets are designed to protect a wooden deck from heat, so if you are fire-conscious but camping somewhere with a wooden platform, that detail removes a real risk. Internal airflow is the mechanism behind the reduced smoke claim, burning the gas that wood fire pits usually release.
It also burns pellets, which is quietly useful in places where bringing firewood is awkward. The waterproof cover doubling as a tote bag means the storage piece and the carrying piece are the same object.
Where the OutVue works
Groups of four to eight around one fire, on a deck, a patio or a campsite. Owners like that it needs no tools and no assembly manual, which matters when you are setting up after dark.
Pick this one if ash cleanup is the thing you dread most. The lift-out tray genuinely changes that part of camping.
Where it falls short
At 22 pounds it is heavy enough that we would not plan to carry it far from the vehicle, and it is lighter than a bonfire but not a backcountry option.
It is wood and pellets only, so it cannot help you if a fire ban is in force. For that scenario, the propane bowls earlier on this list are the answer.
7. Dodometrek 19 Inch Stainless Steel Smokeless Fire Pit – Best for Travel Bags
Smokeless Fire Pit with Travel Bag, Portable Outdoor Wood Burning Fireplace, 19 Inch Stainless Steel
19-inch stainless steel wood burner
Listing weight not stated
20.5 inches deep by 12.99 high
Travel bag included
Pros
- Travel bag included for transport and storage
- Stainless steel suits outdoor wood burning
- Multiple sizes available from 5.5 to 27 inches
- Consistently strong owner ratings
Cons
- Manufacturer does not publish a weight figure
- Smaller sizes trade away fire capacity
- Owners report more smoke at ignition
The Dodometrek is a straightforward stainless steel wood burner with a travel bag in the box, and the appeal is simplicity. There is no fuel hose, no regulator and nothing to service beyond cleaning out ash.
One thing to know before you buy: the listing does not publish a weight figure. At 20.5 inches deep and 12.99 inches high it is clearly a full-size pit rather than a packable one, so if carrying weight is your deciding factor, check the packaged weight yourself or consider the Fireside pit instead.
The range of sizes is genuinely useful for households. The same product family runs from 5.5 inches up to 27 inches, so a solo camper and a family of six can use the same design language with very different footprints.
Stainless steel is the right material choice for a wood fire. It handles repeated heating cycles without the paint bubbling you get on cheaper steel, and it will outlast a season of trips without visible corrosion.
Who this pit suits
Anyone who wants the simple path: bring firewood, light it, sit around it. No assembly, no fuel connections, no consumables beyond wood.
The included travel bag means it has a home between trips, which is more than several budget bowls can say.
Where it falls short
The missing weight figure is a real gap for a portability roundup, and it means we cannot rank it fairly on pack weight against the others.
Owners mention more smoke in the first minutes before the fire settles into a steady burn. That is normal for a steel bowl, but it is the point at which the smokeless designs elsewhere on this list pull ahead.
8. AmazStove 9.7 Inch Tabletop Fire Pit – Best Lightweight Pick
9.7 x 7.1 Inch Tabletop Fire Pit by AmazStove, Low Smoke Camping Stove for Outdoor Safe Burning Firepits, Fueled Pellets or Wood, Travel Bag Included (Silver, 9.7 x 7.1 INCH)
9.7 by 7.1 inches and 2.8 pounds
304 stainless steel
50 to 60 minutes per load
Travel bag included
Pros
- Impressive heat for a 2.8 pound unit
- Burns wood or up to 2.5 lb of pellets
- Near-zero smoke once the secondary burn settles
- Only fine ash left behind
- Cold to the touch after about 40 minutes
Cons
- Holds only a double handful of sticks
- Pellets catch slowly and burn through fast
- Limited heat at a distance
- Interior and rim discolour or warp after one use
At 2.8 pounds the AmazStove is the only true backpack-sized pit here, and it behaves like one. It is small, light and genuinely goes into a side pocket, which puts it in a different category from everything else on this list.
It also burns pellets, up to 2.5 pounds per load, which solves the single biggest problem with tiny wood fires. When the wood runs out you are not left with a cold pit in the dark, because a handful of pellets keeps it going for another stretch.
Owners report a 50 to 60 minute burn per load and that the unit is cold to the touch about 40 minutes after you stop feeding it. That last point matters more than it sounds, because a small pit with thin walls can otherwise stay hot enough to scorch a bag or a pad.
The dual 360-degree updraft is what makes such a small unit run cleanly. Air enters around the base, feeds the primary burn, then rises through the body to finish burning off smoke, leaving only fine ash in the bottom. The feet also lift it clear of the surface so it does not scorch what it stands on.
Who should buy the AmazStove
Solo campers, couples and anyone camped on a surface that would be damaged by a larger pit. On a beach or a thin forest duff layer it is the respectful option, and the manufacturer lists three years of spare part availability.
It is also the best choice for a table-top fire on a tailgate or a picnic table where nobody wants ash at knee level.
Where it falls short
It holds about a double handful of sticks and needs constant refilling. If you want to sit around a fire rather than tend it, this is the wrong pit.
Owners report the interior and top rim discolouring and sometimes warping slightly after a single use, and pellets take a while to catch before burning through quickly. There is also no grip provided for the ash tray.
9. Yaheetech 21 Inch Folding Steel Fire Bowl – Best Bundled Cooking Set
Yaheetech 21inch Fire Pit Portable Folding Steel Fire Bowl Garden Treasures Fire Pit for Outside Fireplace with Carrying Bag, Spark Screen, BBQ Grill & Log Grate for Patio Backyard Camping Bonfire
21-inch round steel bowl
8.7 pounds
Foldable legs with ring latches
Spark screen and grates included
Pros
- Ring latches lock the legs open against collapsing
- Food-grade cooking grate and spark screen included
- 8.7 pounds makes it easy to carry anywhere
- Works with charcoal or firewood
- Carry bag included
Cons
- Paint marks the stainless look over time
- Ash collects under the raised log grate
- Wind exposure still affects an open bowl
The Yaheetech is the best bundled kit on this list. The box contains a spark screen, a food-grade cooking grate, a log grate and a carry bag, so for the price of one pit you effectively get a small cooking setup as well.
What we like most is the leg system. The four legs fold flat against the bowl for packing, and ring latches lock them open so they cannot collapse while the fire is lit. That is a meaningful safety improvement over the simple pin-and-hole designs that let a leg fold under load.
At 8.7 pounds it is one of the lighter full-size pits here, and 21.26 inches across is a comfortable size for four people with the cooking grate in place.
Using charcoal gives you faster, more controllable cooking, and the food-grade grate is what makes that practical. Switching to firewood turns the same unit into a straightforward open fire pit for atmosphere.
Where the Yaheetech earns its spot
Anyone whose trip is half cooking and half ambience. The included spark screen also helps in wind, which is the failure mode most open bowls share.
Car campers and beach campers who want a decent fire without hauling a heavy steel bowl are the core audience, and the carry bag keeps it tidy between trips.
Where it falls short
As an open bowl it is still exposed to wind, so it is not the answer for exposed ridgelines. The finish marks with use, which is cosmetic but visible on a stainless body.
It is charcoal or firewood only. If you need burn-ban flexibility, move up to one of the propane units earlier in this list.
10. HGD 20 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit – Best Low-Smoke Wood Fire
HGD 20 inch Smokeless Firepit Outdoor, Portable Smokeless Fire Pit for Camping with Travel Bag, Stainless Steel Wood Burning Stove for Backyard & Patio, Easy Setup & Compact Storage
20-inch double-wall stainless steel
18 pounds
Removable ash pan
Travel bag included
Pros
- Double-wall design gives genuinely low smoke and little after-smell
- Runs hot and fast enough to grill burgers
- Breaks down for compact storage
- Metal thickness owners compare favourably to costlier stoves
- Removable ash pan simplifies cleanup
Cons
- Exterior and base run extremely hot
- Will burn through plywood and grass without protection
- Carry bag occasionally arrives the wrong size
- Smoke at ignition before the secondary burn settles
The HGD is the value answer to the premium smokeless stoves. It uses the same double-wall principle, with vent holes that feed a secondary burn, and owners describe the smoke reduction and the absence of after-fire smell as the standout results.
Heat is the other strength. Reviewers use it to grill burgers, which tells you it runs hot and fast rather than smouldering. The removable ash pan means you never have to tip the whole unit to dump ash, which is the messiest part of most wood pits.
It breaks down for compact storage and the travel bag is included, and the same series is also offered in a 28-inch size if you want a much larger fire later.
The solid metal thickness is repeatedly compared favourably against stoves costing considerably more, and that is where the value argument comes from rather than from stripped-back features.
Who should buy the HGD
Wood fire lovers who care about smoke more than they care about weight. If you camp where drifting smoke would reach neighbouring sites or upset a fire ban officer, the double-wall design here is worth the extra consideration.
It suits anyone cooking over an open wood flame as well as sitting around one, given how quickly it comes up to temperature.
Where it falls short
The exterior and base run extremely hot. Reviewers report it burning through plywood and grass, so a heat-rated stand or fire mat underneath is not optional with this model.
The included carry bag occasionally arrives the wrong size, and there is smoke at ignition until the secondary burn settles. Collapsing it for storage means emptying ash first, which is a messy step.
11. CampingMoon MT-2 Folding Fire Pit Grill – Best for Compact Cooking
CAMPINGMOON Portable Fire Pit Grill 14 Inch Stainless Steel MT-2
14-inch stainless steel pit and grill
About 7.7 pounds
Folds to 13.8 by 7.9 inches
Two-level grate height
Pros
- Dual purpose as a charcoal grill and a wood fire pit
- Quick tool-free setup and folds down small
- Stainless steel resists warping after repeated use
- Deep ash tray makes cleanup easy
- Canvas carry bag included
Cons
- Heavier than comparable compact pits for hiking
- Grate can shift on the lower setting
- Grate gaps are wide for small foods
- Arrives with manufacturing residue
The MT-2 is the one we would load for a trip where dinner is the main event. It is a grill first and a fire pit second, with roughly 1220 square centimeters of cooking grate space, and it earns its place on how well it cooks rather than on atmosphere.
The two-level grate height control is the feature that changes cooking. Being able to raise or lower the grate lets you manage the distance between food and coals, which is the difference between a good cook and a ruined one. Reviewers cook burgers, steaks, sausages and salmon on it with good results.
Build quality is above what the size suggests. A 304 stainless cooking grate sits on a 430 stainless body, owners report it resists warping after repeated use, and several describe it as an upgrade over cheaper folding fire pits.
At about 7.7 pounds it folds to roughly 13.8 by 7.9 by 3.5 inches and drops into the included canvas bag, so it is genuinely stowable in a vehicle between uses. The raised coal grate supports airflow and the deep ash tray catches debris, which makes cleanup quicker than most.
Who should buy the MT-2
Campers cooking for three or four people who want real grill performance in a packable package. Verified buyers report continued satisfaction after many uses, with only surface discolouration over time.
It is sized for 3-4 person camp cooking, which makes it a natural fit for a family site or a couple hosting friends.
Where it falls short
It weighs about 7.7 pounds, so it is a car camping and truck camping unit rather than something to hike with. The grate gaps are wide enough that shrimp and small fish fall through, and the grate can shift on the lower setting while you cook.
It is also not stable as a stand-alone open fire pit in wind, and it arrives with manufacturing residue that needs cleaning before the first use.
12. GasBRUH 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit – Highest Heat Output
GasBRUH Outdoor Portable Propane Fire Pit, 19-Inch,60,000 BTU with Cover&Carry Kit,Camping Propane Fire Pits,Gas Firebowl,Portable Gas Fire Pit for Outside Patio,Backyard,Camping,RV,Deck,Tailgating
60000 BTU per hour in a 19-inch bowl
Listed at 8.5 kg
20 lb propane tank not included
4.8 lb lava rock set
Pros
- Highest stated heat output in this roundup at 60000 BTU
- Ash-free flame with no smoke or firewood
- Chrome regulator knob makes flame size easy to dial
- Cover and carry handle simplify transport and storage
- Rainproof and rust-resistant construction
Cons
- Propane tank is not included
- Lid is not heat resistant and must not go on a lit pit
- Not suitable for cooking without the grill grate variant
The GasBRUH is the heat specialist here. At 60000 BTU per hour it puts out more than every other pit on this list, and in cold conditions on a shoulder-season trip that extra output is the difference between a pleasant evening and a cold one.
Everything else about it follows the propane logic. There is no ash, no smoke and no firewood to gather, and the chrome regulator knob makes dialling the flame size simple enough that you will use the lower settings more often than full output.
The 4.8 lb lava rock set gives a realistic flickering campfire look rather than a bare metal burner ring, and the rainproof, rust-resistant construction means it can stay outside between trips under the included cover.
Owners mostly rate it five stars, with a small number of lower ratings. The cautions are consistent: buy your own cylinder, let the pit cool before covering it, and check for gas leaks before first use.
Where the GasBRUH fits
Cold-weather car camping, winter trips and larger gatherings where radiant heat matters. It is typically usable under campfire restrictions where those restrictions permit it.
Choose it over the other propane bowls here purely for output. If you do not need the extra heat, the Outland at the top of this list is the more portable option.
Where it falls short
The propane tank is not included and must be purchased separately, which is a genuine extra cost the first time you set out.
The lid is not heat resistant and must never be placed on a lit pit, so packing up has to wait until it has cooled. It is also not suitable for cooking unless you buy the optional grill grate variant.
How to Choose a Portable Fire Pit for Camping
The decision framework below is the same one we used to rank the twelve above. Work through it in order and the right answer usually becomes obvious within a couple of minutes.
Propane vs wood vs multi-fuel: the first decision
Propane versus wood is the primary axis, and it decides almost everything else. Propane means instant flame, no ash, no smoke and permission to burn under most Stage 1 and Stage 2 fire bans, at the cost of a tank, a hose and less radiant warmth. Wood means a real campfire experience with radiant heat and cooking capability, at the cost of ash, smoke, firewood weight and a ban-compliant check before you burn.
Multi-fuel pits exist and they are versatile, but they are heavier and more complicated, and none appear in this roundup. If your trips alternate between ban seasons and firewood-available seasons, two cheap pits can beat one expensive compromise.
What smokeless actually means
Smokeless is not absolute. A double-wall pit burns wood twice: air enters through base vents, feeds the primary burn, then rises through the wall and exits at the top vents to combust the smoke particles a single-wall pit would release. Even then, expect visible smoke during ignition and during shutdown, which is the complaint owners of every smokeless design raise.
Two practical rules reduce what you see. Burn dry wood, since moisture is the single biggest driver of smoke, and never smother a smokeless pit to force it down. Smothering starves the secondary burn and produces exactly the thick smoke the design exists to avoid.
Reading BTU and radiant heat
BTU is British Thermal Units per hour, a measure of fuel energy output. Most propane bowls in this category sit between 58000 and 60000 BTU per hour, which is plenty for a group of about six. Wood pits are not usually given a BTU figure at all, because their output depends on how much wood you feed them.
Radiant heat is what you feel on your face and hands, and it is where wood beats gas. Gas pits radiate almost entirely upward, so your feet stay cold. Wood pits, especially the elevated Fireside design, send heat in more directions. For warming people rather than cooking, wood wins.
Portability: weight and packed size
Weights on this list run from 2.8 pounds to 27.3 pounds, and that spread is more important than any other spec for a camping article. Under 3 pounds means true backpacking, around 7 to 9 pounds means car camping and beach trips, and above 20 pounds means vehicle-adjacent camping only.
Packed size matters as much as weight for car campers. Folding designs such as the Fireside and the Ciays store flat and go back in the vehicle, while rigid round bowls need permanent shelf space. Round shapes also pack awkwardly against a wheel arch, so square or collapsible designs are worth considering for that reason alone.
Fire ban compliance and ground rules
A propane pit that is CSA approved, like the Outland 893, is generally acceptable where wood fires are restricted, but local rules vary and rangers are the final word. Check the current restriction level for your specific site before you travel rather than assuming.
Every pit, gas or wood, needs ground protection on anything other than bare dirt or sand. The Fireside and the HGD both run hot enough at the base to damage grass or plywood, and several of these heat shields are sold separately. A fire mat is the cheapest insurance in this whole guide.
Cooking compatibility
If you plan to cook over the fire, look for a grate first. The Ciays includes a rust-proof cast iron grate, the Yaheetech includes a food-grade grate and spark screen, and the CampingMoon MT-2 is a purpose-built grill with two-level height control. The propane bowls generally are not cooking-certified, and grease can block the burner holes.
Charcoal gives you faster, more controllable cooking than firewood, so a pit rated for both, such as the Yaheetech, is more versatile than one designed only for wood.
Matching the pit to your group
One to two people are well served by the 9.7-inch AmazStove, which packs at 2.8 pounds and burns pellets as well as wood. Families of four are covered by the 19 to 21-inch pits such as the Gas One, the Yaheetech and the OutVue. Larger groups of six or more want the 24-inch Flame King or any of the high-output propane bowls.
You can compare cooking setups and other camp gear in our guides to the best portable camping refrigerators and the best portable camping fridges for overlanding, since cold storage and fire are the two systems that decide whether a trip is comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best portable fire pit for camping?
The Outland Living 893 is the strongest all-round choice here. It delivers 58000 BTU per hour from a 19-inch propane bowl, weighs 23 pounds, needs no assembly and is CSA approved so it can usually be used during campfire bans. Choose the Fireside 24-inch collapsible pit if low pack weight matters more than instant heat, or the AmazStove tabletop pit if you plan to carry it on foot.
What is the best type of fire pit for camping?
The best type depends on where you camp. Propane bowls give instant flame, no ash, no firewood and burn-ban flexibility, while double-wall wood pits give lower smoke, real radiant heat and cooking capability. Pits under about 10 pounds suit car and beach camping, and pits above 20 pounds should stay close to the vehicle. Always confirm local fire restrictions before you travel.
Are portable fire pits allowed in national parks and during fire bans?
It depends entirely on local restrictions and the fuel you burn. A CSA approved propane pit such as the Outland Living 893 is generally acceptable during Stage 1 and Stage 2 restrictions, because wood fires are what bans target. Wood-burning pits are usually prohibited during those same periods. Restriction levels change by season and by site, so check the current status for your exact location before you travel.
Are smokeless fire pits really smokeless?
Not completely. Smokeless designs burn wood twice, using base vents for the primary burn and top vents for a secondary burn that consumes smoke particles. Expect visible smoke during ignition and while shutting the fire down, and much more if the wood is damp. Burn dry wood and never smother the fire to force it down, because starving the secondary burn produces exactly the thick smoke the design is meant to prevent.
How long does a propane fire pit burn?
It depends on tank size and which model you run. Reviewers of the Outland Living 893 report roughly 7 to 8 hours on a 20 lb tank at full output, and less on a 5 lb cylinder. Turning the flame down to a medium setting extends that considerably. The Flame King accepts 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 lb cylinders, so the tank you choose matters as much as the pit.
Our Final Pick for Portable Fire Pits in 2026
The Outland Living 893 takes our top spot among these portable fire pits for camping. It combines 58000 BTU per hour, instant ignition, no ash and CSA approval in a package that assembles in seconds and packs down in under a minute, and it carries by far the largest owner review base we compared.
If you need to carry it on foot, the AmazStove at 2.8 pounds is the only realistic option on this list. If you want a wood fire and can accept the weight, the Fireside collapsible pit gives you the lowest smoke of any wood design here and throws heat downward onto cold feet.
Whichever you choose, check the fire restrictions for your site before you leave home and put something heat-rated underneath it. Our deeper guides to the best smokeless fire pits cover the wood-burning designs in more detail if smoke is your main concern.