How to Make A Campfire: A Beginners Guide to Flame!

How to Make A Campfire: A Beginners Guide to Flame!

Why is a Campfire Important

A lot of people see the time spent around the campfire as the soul of the camp. Perhaps they’re exaggerating a bit, but we understand the importance of the campfire.

Camping isn’t complete without a campfire. Aside from the warmth generated by the dancing flame, lots of camping activities are only made available by having a fire.

  • Cooking Food (Smores)
  • Boiling water (Coffee)
  • Drying Wet Clothing and Gear (Rain)
  • Lighting Camp (Darkness)
  • Raising spirits (nerves)

Not only does it give you a physical attribute as heating there is a mental side as well. It helps make you feel safe and secure. At least In my mind.

keeping the critters away at night is a significant effect fire has as well. I don’t know of many animals that will come toward a camp that is lit by a campfire. (honestly, I don’t know any critters, just an example…;)

Starting  A Fire

Knowing how to start a campfire is a skill you should know before going camping. In this piece, we will explain how to start a campfire and the different styles to accomplish this.

Before we go into the ABC’s of how to start a campfire, a little insight on the chemistry of fire itself will help your case a little.

Speaking of ABC’s a fire needs three core elements; Oxygen, fuel source, and heat. Once these three elements combine in the right order, They create a chemical reaction known as Fire!

Campsite planning

The Fire Triangle

They call it The Fire Triangle, it is the basic chemistry behind a flame.

  • Oxygen (O2)
  • Fuel (Wood – Fuel)
  • Heat source (Ignition – Spark)

The fuel source could range from papers, oils, to chunks of dry leaves. But for a campfire, dry wood is the standard used fuel.

Campfire Location

Depending on the location of the campsite you might have to improvise accordingly. In the warmer times of the year, just about everything can serve as fuel.

Of course, we don’t recreate only in those times and moisture may cause issues when using natural resources in the wetter and colder months.

Natural Resources

If you are camping in the forest and it has been dry, you will most likely not have an issue finding fuel for the campfire. Small twigs to dead trees will be abundant most of the time.

( Check your local burn bans and code at your local forestry dept.)

If you are camping next to water sources or up in the mountains with heavy snowfall the resources might be more on the damp side and finding burnable fuel can become a very stressful situation if your campfire experience is low.

MORE | Tents or Hammocks?

Other Essential Tips

Be prepared the best you can. Bring waterproof matches; a lighter, a striker, a magnesium strip, anything you can bring along that can help your situation if you get yourself in a bit of trouble will go along ways.

To create a campfire, you need to have the necessary resources. Take a tour of your surroundings and see what you can find.

Wood will mostly be available, but its condition will depend on the weather situation around the area.

Getting a campfire started doesn’t just involve stacking some limbs or fallen trees onto a fire ring and lighting it on fire.

This style can work, don’t get me wrong, to sustain a fire it needs to be nurtured and done in a way you will not run out of fuel to fast, and it won’t go out due to the elements.

Successful campfire building in the wilderness requires some fundamentals you must have to start one. We will take a look at them now!

Fuel Gathering

Situations

The speed and effectiveness of starting your fire will largely depend on your level of preparedness and ability to gather fuel. This will depend of course on your circumstances.

If you become lost and you are not prepared for this, the whole situation becomes dire, and the need for fire becomes almost an emergency, in some instances.

Finding fuel in this type of situation is stressful and can be dangerous. If its dark out and you can’t see anything finding just the minimal amount of resources to get the fire going should be a priority. (Try and gather plenty of fuel to burn long enough to be able to get more though.)

Once a fire is started, and you have light then you can find more resources easier. Remember speed will be a factor. Fire burns quickly, and you need to keep it fueled.

Although if your camping with friends and family or on a hunting trip, the situation entirely changes and is more laid back and your fire starting necessity may not be as urgent.

Many time fire fuel is brought with us in these instances and fire starting becomes a fun activity we can share with friends and family. (One of my favorite things is to watch my children practice these skills)

Materials

Wood Wood is an essential element is necessary for all campfires. It can be small scrapes, strips, shavings or logs. Regardless of their form or shape.

It would be best if you seek out the driest logs and pieces of wood. This will save you from the stress of having to expend more energy and resources trying to get through the wet exterior.

(It is possible to burn damp wood it is just incredibly time-consuming and challenging)

There are different names used for referring to wood resources based on their size or their sources, and for your campfire, you sure will need most (if not all) of them.

Tinder – material that will take the initial ignition and become the start of the fire. Usually a small dry substance such as dry tree needles, moss, or wood shavings, etc.. (Burn approximately 10-30 seconds)

Kindling – small twigs and branches generally under 2 inches in diameter and about 8-12 inches long. This is the “get the fire going” material. (burn approximately 1-4 mins each.)

Limbs and Branches –  Larger diameter wood that has fallen from trees to the ground and can be cut up into 12-20 inch lengths.  (burn approximately 20-30 mins each.)

Logs – fallen tree trunks that can be bucked up into long-lasting firewood. Usually, 4-24 inches in diameter does take longer to process but also burns much longer. (burn approximately 30min -2 hours each Depending on size.

Warning – Please respect our wilderness areas and unless it is an emergency do not cut down, limb, or break wood off living trees. The wood sucks to burn anyway and its devastating to the environments. Just a thought.

MORE | Hatchets

A heat/fire source Having a good ignition source will increase your fire making abilities by a lot. Don’t rely on one type of source either. Make sure to have a few options in your gear.

Waterproof matches Can be purchased for your camping gear and should be in everyone’s kit for emergencies. Depending on your source they can work or they might not.

Butane Lighters (Bic) These also can be put into your camping gear to help with fire starting. This is the way most people will be able to get a fire started quickly and easily. The downfall is that one they get wet they are garbage.

Strikers (Ferro of, Magnesium strip, fire steel), All of these, are for emergency uses and can work when wet. (Most of the time).

Friction Fire (bow drill, Hand drill, etc.) These are more of a primitive and last form of survival technique to get a fire going. Unless, you know how these styles work and have used them, achieving fire this way is extremely difficult.

SETUP

After securing all the materials that you will need for your campfire, the next logical thing to do is to set up the fire.

You have your wood and other fuel sources; you have your ignition, now is the time to put the materials together and get the fire you need to be started.

However, to have a good flame, you must take the time to prepare your campfire site. This involves taking some necessary precautionary actions and clearing the area of materials that could prevent the setup of a good campfire.

Clearing and setting Is there an existing fire ring (a spot where previous fires have been made)? Go on and clear away the cold ash and charcoal.

Doing this will present you with enough room to arrange your wood and fire materials for the new burn. You may leave the old ashes at the edge of the ring or do away with them altogether. Depending on how cold and damp they are they could affect the new fire.

If there is no existing fire ring, you will need to clear out a spot for your campfire – this would mean that you will have to remove dead grass, vegetation around your chosen place.

Using your shovel, lightly scrape off the soil from the fire ring, and keep it nearby in case of an emergency.  You are free to use the freshly removed earth as a border fence for your fire ring, or you may choose to use rocks (recommended).

I always try to use rocks, and if necessary use the earth that’s been dug up to fill in gaps.

(Be aware of your surrounding don’t be that person that starts a wildfire that burns people out of their home)

Burn it up!

Structure

At this point, you have cleared your fire ring, and you are ready to start setting up your kindling and wood for the fires. Some fire types are best suited for different occasions.

Before we go on to discuss them, take your tinder as we talked about above or some light wood, paper material, cardboard and place them at the center of the fire ring, it shouldn’t be more than a foot in diameter.

Now to the fire! Most people do not realize that there are several forms of campfires, and each has a specific purpose that they serve.

The following are some campfire types you can set up and their designated functions.

Log Cabin Fire – This is a fire that is intended to last long. It is great for long nights in the winter.

Lean-to-Fire – This is a fire type that is great for cooking. It is not meant to last long. Use small pieces of kindling and tinder to start the flames and then add more wood as the fire grows.

Teepee Fire – The Teepee fire is great for cooking. All you need to do is to arrange the sticks in a teepee above the position of the tinder.

Cross Fire – Also suitable for fires that are meant to last for a while, the Cross Fire differs in wood arrangement slightly as the wood pieces are placed in a criss-cross manner.

Ignition

On to the final part of it all and that is lighting the fire.

Keep kids and pets away by a safe distance before you set fire to the tinder. Light it up from several edges. This ensures the tinder lights up quickly.

Never use gasoline regardless of the circumstances you might find yourself. Gas is extremely volatile, and the situation could escalate rather soon especially when in the woods.

All Done?

When you’re through, and the fun is over, ensure that you thoroughly and exhaustively put out the fire.

Do these strategies to avoid problems. Gently sprinkle water onto the flame. As you continue doing this, watch the embers and stir them gently while pouring more water. Continue until you can no longer hear the hissing sound of the embers.

That’s it; you’re good to go.

How To Camp While Snowmobiling: A Wonderful Ride

....If you ever get the chance to take a trip and go camping while snowmobiling up on the side of a mountain, I suggest you do it. Few things in...

A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Backpacking Stoves

Explore different types of backpacking stoves and factors to consider when choosing the right one

Ultimate Guide to Best Double Sleeping Bags for Cozy Camping

Discover the importance of a good night’s sleep while camping and how double sleeping bags can enhance your outdoor experience. Explore the benefits, top features to look for, and check out our recommendations for the best double sleeping bags on the market. Stay warm, comfortable, and connected with your camping partner for a memorable adventure in nature.

Mastering the Art of Fishing: Good Luck With That

Fishing connects you with nature and brings a sense of peace. Learn the art of angling, from bait selection to responsible catch-and-release.

Best Campsite Hatchets For The Average Camper

Best Campsite Hatchets Alright, Summer is just about to wrap up and if your anything like me you might be starting to keep an eye out for those...

How to Make A Campfire: A Beginners Guide to Flame!

Discover the art of making a campfire with our comprehensive beginner’s guide. From gathering the right materials to building the perfect structure, learn step-by-step how to create a safe and inviting campfire for memorable outdoor experiences. Ignite your passion for flames and embrace the warmth and ambiance of a well-crafted campfire.

Camping Cuisine: Exploring the Best Stoves for Cooking in the Wild

Learn how to choose the right camping stove for cooking in the wilderness. Explore the advantages and disadvantages of propane, butane, liquid fuel, and wood-burning stoves. Find the perfect stove to enhance your outdoor cooking experience.

Ten of the Best Washington State Campgrounds To Chill!

Explore the top campgrounds in Washington State and experience the beauty of nature. Find the perfect camping spot for your next adventure

Paradise on the Beach: Beachfront Tent Camping

Beachfront tent camping combines the beauty of nature with the excitement of beach activities. Discover the appeal of waking up to an unobstructed view of paradise, immersing yourself in the natural environment, and disconnecting from technology.

Pitch Perfect: Your Ultimate Guide to Setting Up a Tent

Learn how to set up a tent like a pro with our step-by-step guide. Find the perfect spot, pick the right tent & master the art of pitching for ultimate camping success.

Us at the columbia river
Campsite planning Logo

This site is operated by Docslys Design, which is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com.

Tent or Hammock? What’s the Difference?

Tent or Hammock? What’s the Difference?

Tent or Hammock? What’s the Difference?

When you go on a camping trip what is the form of shelter you prefer? I have been a tent man my whole life, and I don’t expect that to change. A buddy of mine swears up and down that a hammock is the way to go. How about we take a good look at the two and see which is better or worse for you!

Tents are far from ideal. There are lots of things to consider with the use of the tent. From finding the perfect campsite to the fear of the unknown, the list is endless. But we have warmed up to it.

Then there’s the hammock. This tent – the alternative is hinged on an arboreal lifestyle. Yes, you read that right. You’d have to take a nap on a synthesized material supported by trees. As crazy as that sounds, many are making the switch without looking back.

What makes these two camping accessories different? Let’s find out.

The Differences in Setup

The most conspicuous difference between the use of the tent and hammock is tied to their setup.

With a tent, it’s all about searching for the right surface – no flooding, possible animal invasion nor awkward terrain. It has to be perfect or at the very least, close enough.

The setup of a hammock couldn’t be any different. This camping approach is heavily dependent on trees.

To camp in a hammock, you’d have to find the right trees. Besides proximity, these woody plants have to be strong enough to support your weight.

No exceptions! This shouldn’t come as a surprise since the hammock material is tied to both trees.

With a hammock, the action on the ground isn’t much of a concern to you – unless of course, it affects the supporting trees.

More | Camping in the Desert

The Weight Factor

Tents are usually heavier than hammocks. They are built to withstand the elements while camping. It’s like taking your home along in a backpack. With structural components consisting of cotton, nylon, and polyester, the tent is bound to be heavy especially when it rains.

While this will add to the burden of transportation, it keeps you safe from the weather.

With the hammock, things take a different turn. Weight isn’t much of an issue with this camping accessory.

Most hammocks are made from nylon which improves their tensile strength. The only issue is you’re at the mercy of the weather.

Innovation appears to have taken the outdoor market by storm offering products which can keep the elements at bay and providing the warmth you need.

However, these accessories could add to the weight of your backpack.

Size

One area where the tent seemingly triumphs over the hammock is size. Tents come in varying sizes. Depending on its dimensions, a tent can hold as many as four persons comfortably.

While weight might be an issue, there’s that closeness a tent breeds especially among family members.

Hammock users are not necessarily loners, but this camping accessory is about getting the privacy you need. Hanging out alone on support anchored by trees doesn’t exactly engender togetherness.

Yes, camping hammocks are available in various sizes, but they can support just one person comfortably – lovers might differ in this regard.

Time Constraint

Camping might be that place where time seems to stop. Being surrounded by nature has a way of making time irrelevant.

Even so, there are occasions when you have to set up or dismantle your tent/hammock for different reasons such as personal issues or weather conditions.

This is when you’d observe some small differences. For a tent, you could spend a few hours putting it together or dismantling it.

This will also depend on the size of the tent. Bigger tents will take more time especially if you are handling this alone.

Unlike tents, hammocks are easier to set up and dismantle. All you have to do is tie or untie the straps. This should only take you some minutes to complete.

However, the use of accessories such as the tarps and sleeping pad could add to the time spent.

MORE | How to Make a Campfire

The Change factor

The condition of your preferred campsite can change within hours of making that choice. You could sleep under cover of a tent and wake-up in a waterlogged space. Often, there’s the need to change tent positions due to the unforeseen situations. If it’s a rather large tent, then there’s a problem.

With a hammock, there’s a lower chance of surprises springing up. Having the straps of a hammock tied to the stem of trees wouldn’t put you in harm’s way if you did your homework.

No, snakes wouldn’t lunge down on you from above – real life isn’t the same as the movies. In fact, the odds of that happening are higher in a tent since more snakes are adapted to a land-dwelling habitat than an arboreal one.

Adaptability

Who wants more from their tent? Everyone. We can’t just carry around a bulky tent and get only a roof above our head. Sadly, that’s the way it is.

Innovation might be making inroads into the outdoor niche but the flexibility of the tents seems to have been missed.

The modern-day tent isn’t as adaptable as it should be. Aside from providing some sort of protection against the elements, its functions are greatly limited.

The adaptability of the tent fizzles out when compared to the hammock. The latter has a wide range of uses. Besides acting as a resting place, it’s the perfect spot for grooming your reading culture.

Many regard the hammock as an epitome of improvisation, and it’s not difficult to understand why.

The Impact of Water

The undoing of every tent is the presence of water on the surface of a campsite or the closeness of a water source. This reduces the number of potential sites for the location of your tent.

Regardless of how alluring an area might be, water can bring all that to naught. Also, you can’t enjoy the view of water bodies from a resting place.

Water isn’t a problem when resting on the hammock. From such an arboreal position, chances are you’d be unaware of the emergence of water onto the land below.

Also, you can enjoy the beauty of water bodies without fear of the condition on the ground around.

Comfort

This is one of the strengths of the tent. With its structural build, the tent provides some semblance of warmth.

Spending a cold night in a tent might not be exactly splendid, but it supersedes whatever a hammock has to offer in this regard. The absence of several openings in the tent reduces the impact of the elements on a cold rainy night!

The hammock and warmth are seen as oil and water – they don’t mix. With the level of exposure observed in the hammock, it’s difficult to argue with that.

However, innovative products like the underquilt, and sleeping pad have brought some relief to worthwhile camping gear.

Similarities Shared by Tent and Hammocks

The similarities common to both the tent and hammock could be based on their composition and function.

From a functional perspective, they provide a resting place for you when camping.

As regards the structural constituents, both tents and hammocks share the same base materials. Nylon, polyester, and cotton are some of the materials used.

Another similarity between the tent and the hammock is the level of customization possible with both camping gears.

These accessories can transform your desired camping gear into a warm safe house.

Final Thoughts

Tents and hammocks have all the attributes required to make camping less hazardous. But the hammock has shown signs of offering much more than the tent.

Accessories can erase Even its current flaws. While the tent is the pinnacle of our camping days both present and past, the hammock has the future in its sights.

Related Articles

Expert Tips for Delicious and Safe Camping Cuisine

Expert Tips for Delicious and Safe Camping Cuisine

Camping is a great way to unplug and connect with nature. Learn expert tips for delicious and safe camping cuisine. Plan your meals, cook over a campfire, and stay hydrated. Also, practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.

Discover the Magic of Leave No Trace Principles for Camping

Discover the Magic of Leave No Trace Principles for Camping

Camping is a great way to get closer to nature, explore new places, and bond with friends and family. However, it also brings the responsibility of respecting nature and preserving it for future generations. This is where Leave No Trace principles come in – a set of guidelines designed to help campers minimize their environmental impact while enjoying the great outdoors.

Master the Art of Campsite Organization: Expert Tips and Hacks Inside!

Master the Art of Campsite Organization: Expert Tips and Hacks Inside!

[pac_divi_table_of_contents included_headings="off|on|off|off|off|off" active_link_highlight="on" headings_overflow_1="ellipsis" headings_overflow_2="ellipsis" title_container_bg_color="#000000" body_area_bg_color="#c9c9c9" body_area_text_link_color_active="#E09900"...

Camping In The Rain Guide

Camping In The Rain Guide

Camping in the Rain

Your going camping in the rain huh? Umm…wait! Is that something you are really going to do? On purpose? Hmm, are you sure? OK. I guess we better get to informing you about the ins and outs of this type of camping. Follow along as we run down our list of Camping in the Rain Guide.

Camping when it’s raining isn’t super ideal of course. That would hinder the amount of time we can spend outside. We would all rather it be warm and sunny. This guide will set you up for an ideal trip rain or shine. But if it does rain, you will be ready. We will look at setting up camp and tent locations, items to bring in your gear to stay dry and warm, and other tips and techniques to make you forget that the heavens have poured out all along the forest floor.

Watch the video below!

Tent and Campsite Location

When looking to set up camp, try to stay up and away from water. Lakes, rivers, streams, and oceans all rise very quickly with big rainfall and if you are near bodies of water there is the possibility of getting washed out during the night.

Do not set up camp right in the middle of a valley or a dried up stream or river bed especially in desert areas because these formations are hotspots for flash floods and can be very deadly. Instead, look for elevated areas at least a hundred feet from water areas. I like to try and face my tent toward the sunrise if possible. It gives you a little bit of resolution to get up and face the day after a cold, wet night. If you can find an area that has trees and is elevated, even better.

Try to set your tent in between a few good sturdy trees so you can tie up cordage to hang some tarp overtop of your tent if needed. However, you don’t want to be in the direct path of a falling branch in the middle of the night either. So be aware and if you can avoid being directly under large branches, maybe think about it. Check out the waterproof tents on Amazon here. /p>

Setup A Dry Area

Tarps and Paracord

Tarps are a camper’s best friend even in dry weather. I have always used a large 20 x 20 tarp doubled up under our family tent. Not only does it help with padding, but it keeps sticks and sharp rocks I have missed from penetrating the base of our tent. So when it comes to helping you stay dry, they are a mandatory accessory in my mind.

If you come prepared with a few tarps and some cordage, you will be so much happier. Coming from experience, being out in the rain in a dry tent at night only to wake up in a completely soaked tent kind of sucks, to be honest.

If you need paracord I picked up a 500ft spool here but they have many new colors now and I think you can buy smaller amounts. And tarps you can get at your local harbor freight or Maynards if you dont want to wait for amazon delivery. More| Campsite Essentials

Dried in Outdoor Space

Once you have reached your campsite destination and have picked your tent setup areas, the next area of business is comfortability in the camp. You want to create an outdoor living space for cooking and working the fire along with any other activities you will want to enjoy while having it drizzle down on you.

The size of your camping party will determine how large of an area you will need. If you have the whole family and some friends, this could be a pretty big area and need some time to set up. On the other hand, if you are soloing out in the woods, a small 10-foot area will do just fine.

Tarps come in some good kits these days.

Start by stringing up a couple of overhead tarps by hanging them from a couple of trees across from each other. Making sure they are angled to a drainage area that is lower than the area you are trying to keep dry. Done wrong and the water will drain off and hit the high ground and then just run right through the camp. Not good!

After the tarps are in place and all are draining correctly then you can start on the mingling area. A place to hang out drink some warm beverages, eat some dinner, play a game, or just relax. Since you are already dry overhead, you might want to think about the ground and staking down a couple of tarps that will let the water stay beneath them.

Then set up your tables chairs and anything else you brought along. Now if you are by yourself or a couple, this is going to be way less intensive, but the exercises are the same on a smaller level.

Tent Setup

(First and foremost check that you have a waterproof, good working tent with rainfly. If your gear is weak and broken, your struggle will be rough.)

As I said before, I have always laid a tarp under my tent for protection. I still do that when it rains even though some people say that it is not needed. Whatever, I like it, and I will keep doing it.

This is your decision to set up as you seem it necessary. Although I do set a tarp under my tent, I also lay one down on the inside floor of my tent. This will help with any pooling or seepage from the ground and the sides of the tent.

What happens is the water that does make it into the tent will follow gravity and end up under the tarp along the floor, allowing my sleeping bags, gear, and myself to stay dry on top of the tarp. More | Camping with a 2-year-old

Trench

The final prep for keeping the rain out from my tent is light trenching if I am going to expect a lot of moisture. What I do is grab my campsite hatchet and use the backside to carve in some trenches on the high side of my tent. Diverting any water that may try to come under my tent.

Usually, I have been able to get away with 4-6 inches deep and maybe 3 inches wide. Of course, this will vary due to the area you are camping. It rained more than the trenches could handle a few times and honestly, the tarps kept me dry enough.

Tarps are somewhat bulky and can be a pain to hike with. Pick and choose your gear accordingly.

Staying Dry Away From Shelter

Best way to stay dry while camping is not to get wet, right? Well, if you stay in camp and do not venture out at all that might be an ok scenario. Most people who do go out and camp tend to venture and like to go and explore the wonderful outdoors. Doing this can and eventually will leave you out away from camp without the proper gear to stay dry.

Having the proper protective outerwear or shell layers is going to make the difference between getting soaked and the situation becoming dangerous to getting from “point A” to “point B” and enjoying every minute of it. Great set of outer shells! With such a vast selection of weather gear, someone might get overwhelmed. There are types for the extreme cold to desert heat rain gear.

Know the area you will be going and bring the set that is suitable for the condition. If you bring the wrong one you could overheat and become dehydrated or get so cold and wet that you get hypothermia.

It is very important to pack the right raingear set. Gore-tex or E-vent are very breathable and have a waterproof membrane. There are many brands out there, and most are very durable and comfortable but be aware the prices can be high for the big brands.

I have found many lesser known brands that do just as good. Lighter items and more of an emergency type gear are available at a big box store and online. Ponchos, PVC rain suits, and cheapies are good in a dire situation but not recommended for day hikes or long-term use. They will fail you.

Getting Wet!

When you get wet, and you will, eventually. You need to get dry, especially in a cold weather environment, as fast as you possibly can. Hopefully, you have warm dry clothes back at camp in a drybag. If you don’t, things can go bad if the right steps are not followed.

The first thing is to get the wet clothes off. Hopefully its warm enough where a little birthdate suit time is going to be ok. You will need to get your skin dry and warm so it can start helping the body rewarm itself. Jump into your sleeping bag until you are warm enough to start drying things out.

If there is a fire already going, great! Use that to your advantage and get close to it if possible. Hang a tarp over one side creating a heat reflecting wall to help radiate the heat toward you. Hopefully, you do have warm clothes and are able to get changed right away. Awesome, tragedy diverted, and off you go to your next adventure.

More | Snowmobile Camping

How To Dry Wet Gear

Assuming the rain does saturate you and your clothes, you are staring down a tough test ahead. Drying items in a high moisture area is a crappy thing to try and do. If you are lucky and set your campsite up the right way you already have a dried in the area and fire is going or at least an area you can have a fire. In that case, a dry line strung underneath the tarps can keep you wet items hung up to dry overnight and hopefully be ready for use the next day.

If a tarped area or fire is not in the cards for you, the task you face is a much more difficult one. I have searched and found the driest limbs or sticks I could find and make a log cabin style layered frame and laid wet shirts and socks over them so they could air dry. It does work but it takes time, and you can’t do a lot.

I also have cut holes in the top layer of my tent near the poles and strung a para cord from one tent post to another making a mini dry line inside the tent. It works but depending on your style of the tent could swing either way. Again getting wet sucks and if not prepared for it can be very devastating to your camping trip.

Fire in the Rain

Having a campfire is the main priority when camping in the rain. It provides warmth, cooking, and good spirits. Having the ability to dry your thing if wet is priceless.

The process of starting a fire is challenging to many in dry weather. To do it in a wet environment with very little to no fuel and the surroundings soaked is a monumental feat carried out by very few outdoor enthusiasts. This is so freaking cool. A lighter and flashlight in one on Amazon

Tinder

To begin the process of starting a fire, you will need starting fuel known as tinder. A lightweight extremely flammable substance usually made up of a fibrous thin cut wood. Sometimes moss or needles can be used as well.

A birds nest is a name they call a small bundle that you shape tinder into. It allows oxygen in but has wind resistance built into the design.

Making tinder is sometimes done by using a campsite hatchet or survival knife and running it down the length of the driest piece of wood you can find, carving off pieces about 1/8 of an inch wide. Creating a pile of these will hopefully be able to get a fire going once ignited.

Char Cloth

My favorite and really the simplest is to have and make your own char cloth. This can be anything from pieces of bandanas, old shirts, or chunks of rope. Shoot, I have even seen old gloves in there and they actually worked really well.

What you do is take a tin can of a sort. I like the large size smelly candle cans they hold a little more and are almost airtight. I put about ten holes in the top with the head of a nail or knife. Put the cloth of your choice in there. Do not pack it real tight. Seal it up with the lid and put it on the fire. You want to wait until you see smoke to start pouring out of the hole.

This will not take long a few minutes depending on the temperature of the fire. Watch the smoke and wait until it stops. When it stops, you need to let it sit because if you open it it will catch on fire and you will need to start over. I flip it over and let it completely cool off before opening the can.

Ignition

Ignition can be a tricky part as well. If you rely on only a lighter bought from the store and you get wet out hiking or boating or just getting rained on, you are screwed. They are so worthless you might as well had left them at home. Don’t get me wrong. I usually have 3 or 4 in my gear for emergencies.

Another style to start thinking about is flint and steel ignition.  There is also a Ferro striker style. Both of these styles need a metal striker that kicks off sparks onto your tinder. Then you can get into your more primitive ignitions. Hand drill and bow drill are a friction based fire starting technique.

Wood

Gathering wood is the biggest chore there is when camping. You need to go out find dry wood and bring it back to camp. It is tedious and physically tiring sometimes. When its wet out, that makes it even more challenging, because everything is soaking wet. That means its heavier than normal and chances are you won’t be able to burn it anyway.

If you can find burnable firewood, get it to camp and keep it dry. Gather as much as you think you will burn than get another few loads. We always burn more than we think.

Stay away from trees that are alive they won’t burn well, and it will be a smoke fest. Now that your wood is back to camp you will need to buck it up to fire length size with your campsite hatchet or ax. Do you have one right? After you buck it up, stack it next to the fire so it can start drying out.

Keeping Your Gear Dry

Bring Waterproof Bags

If you are counting on being in the rain, you better get your gear in some waterproof bags, then put them in your camping bags or backpacks. Sleeping bags, clothes, food, electronics, maps, and whatever else that can’t get wet, should be put in a waterproof bag when heading out. If you don’t have any waterproof bags, thick black garbage bags will do just fine for a trip, but that’s probably it. One trip.

Waterproof Backpacks and Stuff Sacks

Having one of these waterproof backpacks saves you so much trouble. If your hiking into camp or doing a day hike, if it rains and all your stuff gets wet, you’re going to want to go home right away.

Be prepared! I can’t say that enough. Don’t get a cheap water resistance backpack! Go out and pay for something you know is going to keep your gear dry.   Get some stuff sacks too. Put everything in a waterproof sack and then the problem of getting wet is almost eliminated. They come in all sorts of sizes. And you can get them in so many places.

Conclusion

Camping in the rain is not everyone’s cup of tea. I understand that. If you get caught in a rainstorm and were not expecting it, it can be awful and turn you away from this recreation. Please don’t let that happen. It is nature and she will throw everything she has at us. As long as we are prepared for it, our adventures and family outings can be enjoyed to the fullest.

One thing I did not discuss in this article is clothing. I figure clothing is pretty much common sense and I don’t know where anyone of you will be going. I could have covered every region and temperature but decided against that. It is too large of a topic. I hope you can use this to help you decide how to set up your next outing. Comment below if you think I need to add some other things.

Enjoy. Relax. Have Fun.

Out Of the Dark: Campsite Lighting Ideas

Discover various campsite lighting ideas, including gas lanterns, battery-operated lights, and solar power options.

Sleep Tight: The Best Sleeping Bags for Camping

the best sleeping bags for camping in this comprehensive guide. From cold weather to warm weather, family trips to specialized situations, find the perfect sleeping bag for your camping adventures. Learn about temperature ratings, insulation types, shapes, sizes, and other important features to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep under the stars.

Sleeping Bags for Extreme Weather: Your Ultimate Guide

  The Importance of a Good Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather Camping Camping in extreme weather conditions can be a thrilling adventure, but it...

Ten of the Best Washington State Campgrounds To Chill!

Explore the top campgrounds in Washington State and experience the beauty of nature. Find the perfect camping spot for your next adventure

Top Ten Of The Best Family Tents To Stay Cozy

Discover the top 10 family tents, offering comfort, durability, and spaciousness. Create memorable outdoor adventures with these versatile camping companions.

10 Top-Notch Tents: Reliable, Spacious, and Budget-Friendly

  Table of Contents 10 Top-Notch Tents for Terrific Outdoor Adventures The Importance of Having a Reliable Camping Tent The Importance of...

Embrace Adventure: Your Ultimate Guide to Top Camping Gear

  Camping Tents, Sleeping Bags, Stoves & More   Tents When it comes to camping, the tent is the most important piece of gear. It...

Ultimate Outdoor Essentials: Gear for Epic Camping Adventures!

Prepare for your camping trip with these essential accessories that ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Mastering the Art of Fishing: Good Luck With That

Fishing connects you with nature and brings a sense of peace. Learn the art of angling, from bait selection to responsible catch-and-release.

The Best Backpacking Tents for Outdoor Adventurers on a Budget

Looking for affordable backpacking tents under $200? Read our expert guide to find the top 10 budget-friendly options that offer excellent value for money. Get ready for your next outdoor adventure

Us at the columbia river
Campsite planning Logo

This site is operated by Docslys Design, which is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com.