Nothing brings people together like huddling around a campfire! The smell of a burning log, toasted marshmallows, the sound of a guitar strumming… there’s no better way to spend an evening with friends and family. A campfire is truly a magical event that provides the perfect atmosphere for storytelling, singalongs, and creating long-lasting memories. When it comes to planning the ideal campfire, there’s no need to resort to surviving off just s’mores and uncooked hot dogs. There are plenty of great campfire supplies available that can amp up your campfire experience.
Over the years, our family has hosted and attended many campfire cookouts and we are excited to share with you our favourite campfire supplies that are on our must-pack list!
Our top pick of course is this great marshmallow roasting stick set. Each person gets their own colour, they have long handles to keep little hands away from the fire and they come in a convenient carrying case.
Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links from which I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase these products. Money goes to help fund Adventure Awaits and keep more informational and educational articles coming your way!
With these 16 essential campfire supplies, you can have the best cookout experience while enjoying the outdoors!
Campfire Cooking Essentials
Nothing quite compares to the special kind of joy that comes with cooking over a campfire. Whether you’re toasting marshmallows or making a gourmet feast, there is something incredibly magical about using nature’s open flame for something other than heat – for creating a delicious meal! Be sure to add these campfire cooking essentials to your list:
Folding Grill Grate
If you’re looking for the best grill to use over a campfire, look no further! The perfect camping cookout could not be complete without your very own trusty piece of cooking equipment. A campfire grill is an essential part of any outdoor chef’s arsenal, allowing you to savour the flavour of smoky logs and hot coals while feeding your friends and family a delicious meal. This foldable portable round cooking rack fits easily over a firepit, has a large cooking area, is made of heavy-duty steel, and is strong enough to hold your outdoor cookware if you don’t want to cook directly on it. So go ahead – get out there and start cooking right over that campfire heat! A must for your campfire supplies list!
Outdoor Cookware
If you want to get the best results from cooking over a campfire, it pays to invest in the right kind of cookware. You don’t want to use the cookware that you use on your stove at home or your propane camping stove, as the heat of the flames can ruin them. When it comes to campfire cooking, there is no better cookware than cast iron. Not only does cast iron stand up to the heat without damage, but it also provides an even cooking surface and keeps flavours locked in while the meal cooks. Furthermore, since cleaning them requires hot water or sand and a wire brush, you don’t have to worry about lugging around soap or other supplies. This cast iron set comes with both a dutch oven deep pot and a skillet (which doubles as a lid for the dutch oven), is pre-seasoned, and has thick walls and solid construction – making them more resistant to warping and breakage over an open fire.
Cooking Utensils
Stainless steel utensils are the perfect partner for a cast iron skillet – it’s almost like they were made for each other! Using stainless steel ensures that the seasoning on your cast iron skillet will remain intact, ensuring maximum flavour in every dish. Not to mention, stainless steel is easy to clean and very durable, so you won’t have to worry about your utensils quickly becoming damaged after tons of scrubbing. This complete stainless steel utensil camping tool set makes grilling and cooking over the campfire a breeze. Packed neatly into a durable and convenient storage bag, it includes a grilling spatula, cooking fork, large serving spoon, lockable tongs, grilling glove and so much more! A must for your campfire supplies list!
Re-usable Dishes
Whenever possible we look for ways to reduce our environmental footprint while enjoying the outdoors. While paper plates and plastic cutlery may seem convenient, they have a huge negative impact. These reusable mess kits not only will you save tons of money in the long run, but you also get to reduce your environmental impact while giving your family all the convenience of regular single-use items. These 6-piece kits come with a plate, bowl, collapsable mug (mmm….hot chocolate!) and a switch spork utensil set. Best of all, when you get home, just pop them into the dishwasher for an effortless cleanup. It’s as easy as that – now let’s get roasting some hot dogs!
Cooler
The key to a successful campfire is bringing the right cooler- one that will keep your food and drinks cold, hold all of your delicious snacks, and be easy to transport. Look no further than this collapsable rolling cooler – it has everything you need for a perfect campfire adventure! It’s super lightweight and easy to move around (all-terrain wheels), folds for easy storage, plus has tons of room for any number of hotdogs and sides you might have prepared.
Stay Cozy Around the Fire
Sitting around a campfire is such a joyful experience. There’s something so special about feeling cozy and warm, surrounded by people you care about, while the flames cast an orange glow throughout the area. The crackle of the fire and its sweet aroma bring a sense of peace and relaxation. Be sure to add these items to your list to stay cozy at your campfire:
Camping Chair
Not all campfire locations will have a picnic table or somewhere to sit – so why not make your campfire experience even better with a folding camping chair? After all, why settle for sitting on the ground or a rock when you can relax in absolute comfort? These chairs are incredibly convenient and space-saving (fold-up flat), but they are also comfortable, easy to carry and come with a side table. Just fold it up and take it along, a must for your campfire supplies list!
Blankets
If you are looking for a cozy, comfy and safe way to stay warm around the campfire, a wool blanket is definitely the way to go! Wool is known for its fire-resistant properties, so it’s the best material when it comes to blankets for use around fires. Not only does it keep you warm and snug, but with its natural flame-retarding ability, you can enjoy your time by the campfire without worrying about potential mishaps. On top of that, wool is often described as “nature’s miracle” fabric due to its superior insulation qualities – so not only will it keep you safe from an unexpected fire, but it will also help insulate against any chill in the air. So when you’re seeking a blanket that will let you sit by the fire without fear of flames – look no further than a wool blanket!
Getting the Fire Burning
Igniting a campfire can bring nothing but joy and excitement. Getting the wood and twigs together, watching the flames spark to life, and hearing the crackle of the firewood is an experience like no other. Be sure to add these fire-starting items to your list:
Firestarter
What’s the secret to the perfect campfire? Well, the answer is simple: it all starts with a good firestarter! They can make kickstarting your fire a breeze and let’s be real – who doesn’t love that feeling of accomplishment when you successfully light a fire? So when you’re gearing up for your next outdoor cookout, remember to pick up some trusty firestarters – they might be the key to making it the best campfire experience yet!
Lighter
In order to create the perfect campfire, you need the right lighter! Consider looking for one that is windproof and waterproof so that even in a gust of wind or rainstorm, you can still light your campfire easily. A standard pocket lighter won’t last more than a few campfires – so, when it comes to convenience and longevity, the best choice is a windproof flameless lighter! This plasma, waterproof and windproof lighter will make sure your fire gets going, it’s a must for your campfire supplies list!
Treats Around the Fire
There is nothing quite like gathering around a campfire, armed with your favourite treats. From marshmallows eagerly awaiting transformation into their golden, gooey alter ego to chocolate-drizzled graham crackers with just the right snap, eating sweet treats around a blazing campfire adds an indescribable element of joy to time spent outdoors. Be sure to add these treat-making items to your list:
S’mores Station
Making smores around a campfire is a classic outdoor activity that’s sure to be fun for the whole family! Fill this s’mores station, including some large marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate bars, and you’re ready to go. For added fun, you can try different-shaped marshmallows or various flavours of chocolates or cookies (we personally are fans of using Oreos!). So gather around the fire, roast up some marshmallows and make some smores tonight!
Marshmallow Roasting Sticks
If you want to take your marshmallow roasting game to the next level, then you must get yourself a good set of marshmallow sticks. Marshmallow sticks come in different sizes and materials, however, these stainless steel extendable ones are simply superior! They have longer handles for safety, are colour coded (each person can keep track of their own), come with a storage bag and can be reused for countless campfires. So grab some sticks, gather a group of friends around the fire and make those golden brown marshmallows everyone will love! These are a must for your campfire supplies list!
Cast Iron Pie/Sandwich Cooker
If you’re looking to make delicious pies or grilled sandwiches over a campfire, then you can’t go wrong with a cast iron pie cooker. These fantastic utensils will cook your amazing creations quickly and easily over the fire so you can get your sweet or savoury treats without any of the fuss! Whether you’re serving up delectable apple pies for the family or crafting some savoury sandwiches, investing in one of these handy helpers is sure to take your camp cooking from good to great! So grab a cast iron pie cooker today, and start cooking up something delightful.
Staying Safe Around the Fire
Having a campfire cookout is the perfect way to relax and have some fun. But, no campfire experience would be complete without taking extra care and precaution – we all need to stay safe, after all! Be sure to add these campfire safety items to your list:
First Aid Kit
A great first aid kit is essential, it’s like having a mini superhero with you at all times. Whether it’s minor scrapes and cuts, or something more major, having the right supplies on hand can make the difference between stressing out and getting it sorted quickly. This all-purpose travel first aid kit helps you be as prepared as possible, as it is compact, waterproof and includes a premium selection of emergency supplies. With the perfect first aid kit on your campfire supplies list, you’ll be ready for anything life throws at you!
Log Grabber
Adding logs and moving them around is part of making a great campfire. But you don’t have to sacrifice safety in order to have the perfect fire. These log grabber fire tongs allow you to move wood from one side of the fire to the other, add logs and break apart the embers at the end to ensure your campfire is safely out. These tongs fold up for easy transport and keep you over 2 feet safely away from the fire.
Fun and Games
There is no better feeling than gathering around the campfire with people you love and playing games! Whether it’s a card game, a storytelling game, or a simple board game, playing games around the campfire creates special memories that will last forever. Not only are these games fun to play, but they also help break the ice and share plenty of laughter. Plus, sometimes you can catch up on stories that you missed during the day while giving each other friendly competition. So grab the snacks and get ready to have some outdoor fun by playing these games at your next campfire:
Conversation Cards
Nothing beats the cozy feeling of gathering around a campfire with friends and family. Taking time to catch up, sharing stories, and laughing together as the night wears on creates a sense of connection and belonging unlike any other. Get those interesting and engaging conversations going around the campfire with these Basecamp Cards, a fun addition to your campfire supplies list. This deck of cards features 52 icebreaking questions that are sure to make your group chat, laugh and have meaningful conversations with the thought-provoking questions.
S’mores Wars
We all know that campfires = s’mores, but why not add a s’mores game into the campfire fun? This competitive and fast-paced game gets players to race to make the perfect s’more by battling their marshmallows against other players by squishing, chomping and toasting them. Packaged in a travel-friendly box, this game is perfect for bringing along to your campfire adventures.
With these great campfire supplies, your cookout experience will be truly unforgettable. Nothing beats drinking in the smells of crackling wood and sweet smoke around a campfire with your family and friends. And what could possibly be better than toasting golden marshmallows until they become pillowy clouds and sandwiching them between two graham crackers and a melted square of milk chocolate? So don’t forget those roasting sticks!
Campfire Supplies FAQs
What do you need for a campfire?
In addition to all the items above, you’ll want to bring some dry firewood, kindling, and some newspapers. Don’t forget the food and snacks!
How do you make a campfire for beginners?
For campfire-building newbies, don’t worry – all you need is some firewood, matches or a lighter, and some patience to make a crackling blaze! Start by laying down your tinder – that’s the thin wood shavings or dry leaves and grass that will be the base of your fire. Next, add your kindling – slightly bigger pieces of wood that can catch light from the flame on the tinder. Finally, arrange larger logs into crisscrossed bundles, which will provide regular burning fuel as they get going. Once everything is in place, all you have to do is light it up and fire up those marshmallows!
What should you not put in a bonfire?
For starters, never put plastic materials, like toys and bottles, in the fire– especially if they’re still holding liquids! That’s because as the plastic warms up, an unpleasant smoke will be released into the air. Additionally, any kind of foam should never be present in a bonfire for safety reasons. Lastly, people tend to forget about limiting their carbon emissions and so try to avoid adding anything with aerosols in it. The fumes from this material can be dangerous if not contained properly. All-in-all, let’s enjoy bonfires but make sure we’re taking the necessary precautions at all times!
What goes well with a fire pit?
Regarding fire pits, the saying ‘the more, the merrier’ rings true! Gather a group of your friends and family, your campfire supplies and get ready for a cozy evening by the fire with some delicious snacks and beverages. Bring out some sweet summertime treats like s’mores and melty marshmallows for an interactive roasting session. As the sun sets and night falls, keep things interesting by gathering around your firepit with board games or ghost stories.
Do and don’ts at a campfire?
When it comes to campfire dos and don’ts, the main thing to remember is that having fun and staying safe should always be top priorities! Before lighting a campfire, make sure you check the weather and location regulations, as well as proper safety precautions like keeping a bucket of water nearby in case of an emergency. Don’t ever throw anything into the fire – even something small can cause dangerous flames that can spread quickly. Also, avoid using any type of accelerants like gasoline or kerosene to get the fire burning faster. Respect other people’s space around the fire and don’t stand too close to someone else or too near the fire itself. Above all, enjoy yourself!
What are the 4 types of campfires?
There are four types of campfires each with its own unique flavour: bonfire, tepee fire, star fire, and log cabin fire. A bonfire is great for burning large amounts of wood at once; it has a wide footing that features a shallow pit for your logs. The tepee fire is an ideal starter fire as it has an iconic look and doesn’t need much wood. This pyramid structure burns inwards creating lots of heat! The star fire is perfect for taking up less space and secure cooking. And finally, the log cabin style creates intense quality flames that can reach into the night sky.
What should I bring to a campfire?
When heading out to a campfire, it’s important to remember the essentials: something to start the fire with, plenty of wood, and definitely some food and marshmallows for roasting. And don’t forget all the campfire supplies listed above.
What equipment do you need for cooking over a fire?
When it comes to cooking over a fire, the right equipment can make the process so much easier. We’ve suggested some great cast iron pans and stainless steel utensils above that are sure to make you the perfect campfire chef!
What food can you cook on a campfire?
When it comes to having an amazing time outdoors, cooking over an open campfire is one of the best parts! From roasted hot dogs and s’mores to foil-wrapped potatoes and steak kabobs, there are so many delicious treats that can be cooked over a campfire.
What do you serve around a campfire?
When a campfire is lit and the night stars shine high in the sky, there’s nothing better to have than sweet treats and delicious food around it. We know marshmallows are a must, as they can be roasted perfectly with a few sticks while everyone chats away under the starry night. But why stop there? Hot dogs, tacos, grilled cheese sandwiches, and even s’mores made with graham crackers, chocolate for your favourite snacks or candy – all these can be cooked on skewers over an open flame for a taste sensation like no other. Plus there are many easy recipes to follow so everyone can customize their own tasty feast! Serve these goodies with some hot beverages and you’re all set for a happy campfire adventure.