The temperature is starting to drop as Fall moves in. The camping season is upon us. It is the time of year to pull the tent out of storage, dust off your hiking boots, and head off into nature.
However, it is not actually camping until that first flame sparks in the fire pit. The fire is the focal point of campsites. It is where all the action happens. Its where the food is cooked, its where the warmth comes from, it's even where you tell the ghost stories.
Starting a campfire is not as simple as it seems. Depending on your tools and materials, there are some tricks to it.
Read this guide to get some ideas on how to start and use a campfire. In no time, you'll be camping like a frontiersman.
Gathering Materials
Starting a fire is one of the most important aspects of building a campsite. As soon as you set up your tent or shelter, its time to focus on the campfire.
The first thing you will want to build is a fire ring. A ring will keep your fire contained. Rocks make the safest fire rings. A river or wash will be the best place to look. Collect enough stones to build a three-foot circle. This will be the foundation of your campfire.
Depending on the region where you are camping, the vegetation will be different. Nevertheless, you will be looking for the same three styles of wood for your fire:
Tinder is small dry foliage such as pine needles and leaves.
Kindling consists of small diameter twigs and sticks that will ignite from the tinder.
Wood will be the main source of fuel for your campfire. Look for medium-sized dry logs that are manageable.
After you have collected an adequate amount of wood, its time start a campfire
Lighting the Campfire
Build the materials into a pyramid with the tinder at the base covered by the kindling and the wood.
If you are using matches or a lighter, focus the flame at the base. If you have flint and steel, scape the tools together targeting the sparks at the dry tinder.
Once you see embers, gently blow on the base of the pyramid. This will light the tinder into flames that will ignite the rest of the wood.
With the fire ablaze, it is time to have some fun.
Campfire Cooking
With the flames underway, you can enjoy your campfire. Kick off your boots, warm your feet, and start thinking about grub.
This campfire is the hub for all your cooking needs. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner can all be prepared around the fire. A classic hotdog is the first food that comes to mind, but there are many easy recipes for campfire cooking.
Just remember, no campfire is complete until the S'mores come out
Get Camping
Camping is a great activity everyone can enjoy. Now that you know how to properly start a campfire, the rest is a breeze. As the season for camping rolls in, there is no excuse to not explore nature.
If if you enjoyed this article, check out the travel blog for more adventuring tips.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
