Finding the Right Fire Pit You don’t need to have a giant backyard to enjoy the flickering flame of a fire pit. Fire pits come in all types and sizes, fromhuge bowl pits to mini tabletop fire pits and everything in between. Average fire pit dimensions are typically smaller than outdoor dining tables, so you don’t need a lot of space; just consider the space you’ll need to place chairs around your fire pit. For an easy, family-friendly fire option, opt for a chiminea, a freestanding fireplace with a small open door and a long tall chimney that directs smoke upward from the fire. Because of their enclosed design, chimineas are a safe fire option for homes with children and pets and are perfect for backyard camping. Their unique design also keeps rain out and concentrates heat where people are seated, making them a practical choice; plus, you can’t beat their charming, rustic look. The kids will love crowding around the chiminea while “camping” out back. You can also opt to DIY a fire pit to suit your space perfectly. If you want to go the DIY route, check in with your local hardware store for guidance. Just be sure to give yourself enough time to plan and build before your backyard camping excursion begins.
Camping Cuisine When it comes to family-friendly camping fare, flame-cooked hotdogs are hard to beat. Or, for another fun hands-on experience with the kids, opt for fire-roasted tin foil dinners. Wrap up hamburger patties, veggie burger patties or chicken breasts with cream of mushroom soup and potatoes, peas and carrots in individual tin foil packets. Let the kids help build their own dinners — just leave the raw meat and sharp edges to the adults and be sure the kids are supervised. Pack your dinners in the cooler for your camping excursion, then when ready, place them among the coals
Keep inmind that installing a fire pit is a commitment. For a less-permanent, convenient fire pit, consider a portable fire pit — a perfect option for backyard campouts. Find the perfect spot, and get some good flames going as you stargaze out back. Regardless of the type you choose, make sure to follow fire safety rules and put out your fire completely before settling in for the night. If fires aren’t permitted in your area or if you’re concerned about safety, make a fun no-fire campfire for the kids with no-flame candles, orange, yellow and red felt or paper and firewood. You can even roast marshmallows and hot dogs on the stove inside, then enjoy them around the “fire.”
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