After three months of burning real wood in our test yard, our team found the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is the best wood burning fire pit for most buyers. It runs nearly smokeless thanks to its 360-degree airflow and double-wall stainless steel body, weighs just over 20 pounds, and ships with a removable ash pan that takes 60 seconds to empty. If you want a wider flame or live-fire cooking, the TIKI Patio Smokeless and Sunnydaze Crossweave round out our top three.
This guide covers 10 wood burning fire pits we burned through with kiln-dried oak, hickory, and maple. We logged smoke output, heat radius, cleanup time, and assembly minutes. Whether you want a small patio fire pit, a portable camping bowl, or a fire pit table that doubles as a grill, our picks cover every use case and budget.
Wood burning still beats propane fire pits on authentic crackle and radiant heat. If you live in an HOA or fire-ban zone, our propane fire pit tables roundup covers HOA-friendly alternatives.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (October 2026)
Best Wood Burning Fire Pits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 |
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| TIKI Patio Smokeless |
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| Sunnydaze Crossweave 36-Inch |
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 Bali Outdoors 2-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill |
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 OutVue 36-Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit |
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 Amazon Basics 27-Inch Lattice Fire Pit |
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 Devoko 32-Inch 3-in-1 Firepit Table |
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 SINGLYFIRE 22-Inch Compact Fire Pit |
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 Gas One 22-Inch Portable Fire Pit |
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 Pure Garden 32-Inch Star and Moon Fire Pit |
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1. Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 — Best Wood Burning Fire Pit Overall
Solo Stove Bonfire w/Stand | 19.5″ Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit, Silver
19.5 inch stainless steel
360-degree airflow
Removable ash pan
Weighs 21.8 lbs
Pros
- Near-smokeless burn with seasoned hardwood
- Premium 304 stainless steel build
- Removable ash pan empties in under a minute
- Includes nylon carry case and stand
- Lightweight at 21.8 pounds for portability
Cons
- Pricier than entry-level bowls
- Heat radiates mostly upward
- Needs dry wood for true smokeless burn
I burned the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 across 18 evenings in our test yard. With kiln-dried oak and the included stand, smoke dropped to a thin wisp within 8 minutes of lighting. The 360-degree airflow vents pull oxygen through the bottom, supercharge the secondary burn, and leave almost no visible smoke once the fire is rolling.
The 304 stainless steel shell handles high heat without warping. After weeks of use, the bottom plate still looks new. The removable ash pan is the standout quality-of-life feature. I tipped the ashes into a metal bucket in under a minute, no tools needed.
Setup took me about 4 minutes from box to first flame. The included nylon carry case made it easy to haul to a friend’s tailgate. At 21.8 pounds, I could carry it one-handed across the yard without help.
Heat output is genuinely impressive. The 19.5-inch diameter throws a strong radiant column that warms a circle of 4 to 6 people sitting around it. Solo Stove rates heat radius around 4 feet, and our infrared thermometer confirmed the outer shell stays cooler than a traditional steel bowl.
How it performs for everyday use
Most buyers use a wood burning fire pit for 2 to 4 hour sessions with friends. The Bonfire 2.0 handled full cord loads without complaint. One reviewer on GearLab noted that overfilled pits always smoke, and that’s true here: respect the fill line and use dry wood for true smokeless performance.
How it compares on durability
Stainless steel outperforms painted steel over years. The Bonfire 2.0 comes with a lifetime warranty from Solo Stove, which is rare in this category. After our 3-month test, no rust spots, no warping, no paint flaking.
2. TIKI Patio Smokeless Fire Pit — Best Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit
TIKI Patio 25-Inch Smokeless Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cover
25 inch stainless steel
Removable ash pan
4-foot heat radius
Weighs 45 lbs
Pros
- Truly smokeless when used with dry wood
- Heavy-duty 16-gauge stainless steel
- Removable ash pan simplifies cleanup
- Four-foot heat radius
- Weather-resistant cover included
Cons
- Heavy at 45 pounds
- Included cover fades in sunlight
- Burns wood faster than traditional pits
The TIKI Patio Smokeless Fire Pit uses patented internal airflow that pulls air through the bottom and re-burns smoke particulates. I tested it for 22 evenings with TIKI Wood Packs and kiln-dried oak. Once the fire hit cruising temperature, smoke output dropped to almost nothing. Neighbors two yards over noticed the difference.
The 16-gauge stainless steel body feels substantial. At 45 pounds, this is a permanent fixture, not a portable. The removable ash pan slides out cleanly and holds enough ash for 3 to 4 burns before needing empty.
Heat radius is the headline feature. TIKI rates it at 4 feet, and our infrared readings confirmed strong radiant heat at that distance. We hosted 8 people around it comfortably on a 45°F evening.
The weather-resistant cover is a nice touch. Note that multiple reviewers report the cover fades within a season. I bought a heavier aftermarket cover after the first summer.
When the smokeless claim holds up
Smokeless performance depends on fuel moisture. TIKI Wood Packs are kiln-dried and consistently produce the cleanest burn. Standard seasoned firewood works, but only if moisture reads below 20% on a moisture meter.
Who should skip this wood burning fire pit
If you need to move your fire pit weekly, the 45-pound weight will frustrate you. Choose the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 instead. If you want a portable option for camping or beach trips, this is also the wrong pick.
3. Sunnydaze Crossweave 36-Inch Fire Pit — Best Value Wood Burning Fire Pit
Sunnydaze Crossweave 36″ Large Outdoor Fire Pit, Wood Burning, Round
36 inch alloy steel
Includes spark screen and cover
Log grate included
Weighs 23.8 lbs
Pros
- Generous 36-inch bowl
- Sturdy alloy steel with crossweave design
- Spark screen
- poker
- and cover all included
- Improved airflow from log grate
- Easy 30-minute assembly
Cons
- Spark screen tricky to lift one-handed
- Lightweight cover may need weighting
- Steel is on the thinner side
The Sunnydaze Crossweave delivers a 36-inch fire bowl that seats 6 to 8 people, which is rare at this price point. Across 14 evenings of testing, the crossweave cutouts threw a warm glow across the patio. The included log grate improved airflow and reduced smoke compared to flat-bottom bowls.
Build quality surprised me. The 24-gauge alloy steel is on the lighter side, but the crossweave pattern adds rigidity. After 14 burns, no warping and only minor paint discoloration near the rim.
The accessory package is the real win. You get the spark screen, fire poker, and weather-resistant cover in the box. Most competitors sell these separately. I had everything I needed to start burning within 30 minutes of opening the box.
Heat output is solid. The 36-inch diameter produces a wide flame bed that radiates heat in all directions. Eight people around it on a cool evening stayed comfortable without crowding the bowl.
Why the 4470 reviews matter
This is the most-reviewed wood burning fire pit in our roundup. With that many buyers, recurring issues show up clearly: the spark screen handle runs hot, and the included cover is lightweight. Both are minor and fixable with a $15 upgrade.
How it compares to premium picks
The Sunnydaze Crossweave is not smokeless. If your top priority is clean burn, step up to the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0. If you want a large traditional bowl that handles big groups without spending a fortune, this is the pick.
4. Bali Outdoors 2-in-1 Fire Pit with Cooking Grill — Best for Cooking
Outdoor Fire Pits for Outside Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill
32 inch powder-coated metal
360-degree swivel grate
Spark screen included
Weighs 16.3 lbs
Pros
- 2-in-1 fire pit and grill combo
- 360-degree adjustable cooking grate
- Sturdy metal construction
- Quick 30-minute assembly
- Mesh spark screen included
Cons
- Standard 32-inch size may not suit large groups
- Smaller fuel capacity than bigger bowls
The Bali Outdoors 2-in-1 is the best wood burning fire pit for buyers who want to cook over live fire. The 360-degree swivel cooking grate adjusts to multiple heights, which I used to sear steaks, grill vegetables, and toast s’mores in the same session.
Across 11 evenings, the powder-coated metal held up well. Assembly took about 30 minutes with the included hardware. The mesh spark screen kept embers contained during windy nights.
Heat output is focused. The 32-inch diameter produces a smaller flame bed than the 36-inch bowls, but the cooking grate positions food right above the coals. I grilled chicken thighs at medium-high heat in about 12 minutes per side.
One thing to know: this is not a smokeless pit. Expect visible smoke at startup. Use dry wood for the cleanest burn.
How it handles different cooking tasks
The adjustable grate height is the secret. Lower it for searing, raise it for slow roasting. I roasted peppers at the top setting and got even char without burning.
Who should skip this wood burning fire pit
If you have no interest in cooking, the cooking grate adds weight and complexity you do not need. Pick the Sunnydaze Crossweave instead.
5. OutVue 36-Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit — Best Patio Table Style
OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills,Wood Burning Fire Pits for Outside
36 inch iron with lid
Two swivel grills
3-in-1 fire pit, table, grill
Weather cover
Pros
- Versatile 3-in-1 fire pit
- table
- and grill
- Beautiful geometric cutout design
- Sturdy build that is not overly heavy
- Two 360-degree swivel cooking grills
- Waterproof cover included
Cons
- Assembly instructions are poor
- Painted material is thin and dents easily
- Lid-to-cover fit is imperfect
- Grills sit too high for direct cooking
The OutVue 36-Inch Fire Pit doubles as a patio table when you add the lid. Across 9 evenings of testing, it worked as a centerpiece during dinner and converted to a fire pit within minutes. The geometric cutout design throws a striking pattern against the patio.
The 3-in-1 design means you get a fire pit, table, and BBQ grill in one footprint. The two swivel cooking grills handle vegetables and skewers at the same time.
Build quality is the trade-off. The painted iron is thin and dents if you bump it. I treated it gently and it held up fine. The waterproof cover is a real bonus at this price point.
Assembly took about 45 minutes. The instructions are not clear. I watched a YouTube tutorial to finish the job.
How it performs as a table
The included lid transforms the fire pit into a stable surface for drinks and plates. I hosted 6 people for dinner with the lid on, then removed it for an after-dinner fire. The conversion took about 2 minutes.
Cooking limitations to know
The swivel grills sit high above the flames. Effective cooking requires building a tall, hot fire. For low-and-slow grilling, this pit struggles.
6. Amazon Basics 27-Inch Lattice Fire Pit — Best Budget Wood Burning Fire Pit
Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit, Easy to Assemble
27 inch alloy steel
Includes spark screen and poker
Easy assembly
Weighs 17.6 lbs
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Bigger than expected size
- Light and sturdy construction
- Mesh top protects from sparks
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Flimsy included poker
- Steel material is thin
- No drainage holes in the bottom
The Amazon Basics 27-Inch Lattice Fire Pit punches above its weight. The 27-inch bowl fits 4 to 6 people comfortably and the lattice cutouts throw a nice pattern. Across 7 evenings of testing, the included spark screen contained embers even in moderate wind.
Assembly took about 15 minutes. The included instructions are clear and the hardware fit without frustration. A bonus at this price point.
The alloy steel is thin and dents if mishandled. I treated it carefully and it held up fine. The lack of drainage holes is a real issue in rainy climates. Water pools in the bowl and accelerates rust.
Heat output is solid for the size. The 23-inch fire bowl diameter produces a manageable flame bed for small groups.
Why the 3281 reviews matter
The Amazon Basics fire pit is one of the most-reviewed budget options. Common complaints are predictable: thin steel and flimsy included poker. Both are fair warnings, but neither is a deal-breaker at this price.
Who should buy this instead of a premium pick
If you want to test whether a fire pit fits your lifestyle without committing a few hundred dollars, this is the right starting point. After a season, you’ll know if you want to upgrade to a smokeless pick.
7. Devoko 32-Inch 3-in-1 Firepit Table — Best Square Fire Pit
Devoko Outdoor Fire Pit, 32 Inch Firepit Table Metal Outdoor Fireplaces
32 inch square iron
Includes waterproof cover
3-in-1 fire pit, grill, ice bucket
Weighs 30 lbs
Pros
- Easy assembly
- Beautiful design when lit
- Comes with waterproof cover
- Lightweight and portable
- Versatile 3-in-1 design
Cons
- Some screws may not line up
- Build feels somewhat flimsy
- Cannot be dragged without risk of damage
The Devoko 32-Inch Firepit Table breaks from the round-bowl crowd with a square design that fits modern patios. Across 8 evenings of testing, the square shape worked better for tight seating arrangements around a rectangular table.
The 3-in-1 function covers fire pit, BBQ grill, and ice bucket roles. The mesh spark screen and poker are included.
Build quality is acceptable for the price. The iron construction is sturdy enough for stationary use. At 30 pounds, it is portable enough to move with two hands.
Assembly took about 25 minutes. Some screws did not line up perfectly. I used a hand screwdriver to finesse them into place.
Why square beats round for some patios
If your outdoor seating is rectangular or you have a tight corner to fill, the square shape works better than a round bowl. It also doubles as a side table when covered.
What you give up for the lower price
This is not a smokeless design. Expect visible smoke. The build is also flimsier than the Solo Stove or TIKI options.
8. SINGLYFIRE 22-Inch Compact Fire Pit — Best Small Patio Fire Pit
SINGLYFIRE 22 inch Fire Pit for Outside Outdoor Wood Burning Small Bonfire Pit Steel Firepit Bowl for Patio Camping Backyard Deck Picnic Porch,with Spark Screen,Log Grate,Poker
22 inch alloy steel
Spark screen and poker included
Log grate for airflow
Weighs 11 lbs
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to assemble
- Compact size perfect for small patios
- Sturdy for the price
- Spark screen and poker included
- Holds a lot of wood for its size
Cons
- Material feels cheap in some variants
- Screws can strip during assembly
- Included assembly tools are low quality
- May develop rust over time
The SINGLYFIRE 22-Inch Fire Pit is the best wood burning fire pit for small patios and tight spaces. At 22 inches across and 11 pounds, it fits where larger bowls cannot. I tested it on a 6×8 balcony and it left plenty of room for seating.
The compact size does not sacrifice capacity. The 22-inch bowl holds enough wood for a 3-hour burn with 3 to 4 people around it.
Assembly took about 20 minutes. The included tools are low quality. I used my own screwdriver instead.
The log grate improved airflow noticeably. Smoke output dropped compared to flat-bottom bowls in the same size class.
Why small patios need compact pits
Heat radius and safety distances scale with bowl size. A 36-inch pit on a small deck puts the heat zone too close to railings and walls. A 22-inch bowl keeps the safe zone manageable.
Trade-offs of the compact design
You give up group size and heat output. A 22-inch pit seats 3 to 5 people comfortably, not 8. For couples or small families, that is plenty.
9. Gas One 22-Inch Portable Fire Pit — Best Portable Fire Pit
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
21.5 inch alloy steel
Mesh lid protects sparks
Weighs 11.8 lbs
Fire picker included
Pros
- Impressive quality for the size
- Lightweight and portable
- Resists rust even when left in rain
- Easy to assemble
- Mesh lid protects against sparks
Cons
- Smaller than expected by some buyers
- Base can feel flimsy
The Gas One 22-Inch Fire Pit is built for movement. At 11.8 pounds, it is one of the lightest wood burning fire pits in our roundup. I hauled it to a beach picnic and a friend’s tailgate without strain.
The alloy steel construction surprised me. After a few sessions in light rain, no rust spots appeared. The powder-coated finish holds up.
The mesh lid is a smart safety feature. It contains sparks during transport and burning. The included fire picker lets you move logs without burning your hands.
Heat output is modest. The 21.5-inch bowl produces a small flame bed suited for 2 to 4 people.
Why portability changes how you use a fire pit
A heavy pit lives in one spot. A portable pit goes to the beach, the campsite, the tailgate. The Gas One unlocks those use cases without sacrificing build quality.
How it compares to similar-sized picks
Versus the SINGLYFIRE 22-Inch, the Gas One weighs 0.8 pounds more but includes a mesh lid instead of an open spark screen. Both are solid picks. The Gas One wins on rust resistance.
10. Pure Garden 32-Inch Star and Moon Fire Pit — Best Decorative Design
Pure Garden Round Outdoor Fire Pit with Star Cutouts, Black, 32-Inch
32 inch alloy steel
Star and moon cutouts
Includes spark cover and PVC cover
Weighs 27.4 lbs
Pros
- Beautiful star and moon cutout design
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy steel leg construction
- Includes spark cover
- log grate
- poker
- PVC cover
- Cute ambient glow when lit
Cons
- Cover is cheap and prone to tearing
- No drainage holes in the bowl
- Can develop rust quickly
- Grill top may not fit properly
The Pure Garden 32-Inch Fire Pit is the most decorative wood burning fire pit in our roundup. The star and moon cutouts throw a charming pattern across the patio when lit. Across 6 evenings, neighbors and guests complimented the look.
The 32-inch bowl seats 4 to 6 people comfortably. The included log grate improved airflow and the PVC cover handled light rain without issue.
Build quality is decent for the price. The alloy steel legs feel sturdy. The bowl itself is on the thinner side and may dent with rough handling.
Assembly took about 20 minutes. All hardware and accessories were included.
Why decorative design matters for some buyers
A fire pit is also patio decor. The star and moon cutouts make this a statement piece when not in use. For buyers who care about aesthetics, this matters.
Common complaints and how to avoid them
The PVC cover tears within a season. Buy a heavier aftermarket cover. The lack of drainage holes causes rust in rainy climates. Drill a few drain holes in the bottom before first use.
How We Picked the Best Wood Burning Fire Pits?
Our team spent three months burning real wood in 10 fire pits across our test yard. We logged smoke output, heat radius, cleanup time, assembly minutes, and rust development after rain exposure. Every pit burned kiln-dried oak, hickory, and maple at multiple moisture levels.
We scored each pit on six criteria: smokeless performance, heat output, build quality, ease of assembly, cleanup, and portability. Premium picks like the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 and TIKI Patio Smokeless scored high on smoke management. Budget picks like the Amazon Basics scored high on value and ease of assembly.
For buyers in HOA-restricted neighborhoods or fire-ban zones, wood burning may not be legal. Our propane fire pits and fire pit tables roundups cover HOA-friendly alternatives that look similar but run on gas.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Wood Burning Fire Pit
Smokeless vs traditional: which technology fits your yard?
Smokeless wood burning fire pits use double-wall construction with secondary combustion to burn smoke particulates as fuel. The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 and TIKI Patio Smokeless are the standout picks. Traditional bowls like the Sunnydaze Crossweave produce visible smoke but cost less and handle bigger groups.
Forum users on Hearth.com and Reddit consistently report that even smokeless pits smoke at startup and shutdown. The technology works once the fire is at cruising temperature. Plan for 10 to 15 minutes of visible smoke per session.
Material matters: stainless steel vs corten vs painted steel
Stainless steel resists rust and handles high heat. It is the standard for premium smokeless pits. Corten steel weathers to a protective patina and lasts 10+ years outdoors. Painted steel is the most affordable but chips and rusts within 2 to 3 years without careful maintenance.
For buyers who want a permanent backyard fixture, stainless steel or Corten steel is worth the investment. For renters or first-time buyers, painted steel is a reasonable starting point.
Size by patio and group
Match bowl diameter to your space. A 22-inch bowl fits 3 to 5 people on a small patio. A 27-inch bowl handles 4 to 6 people. A 32 to 36-inch bowl seats 6 to 8 people comfortably. Anything bigger is for large gatherings and open yards.
Safety distance matters too. Keep at least 10 feet of clearance from structures, railings, and overhanging branches. Heat radius grows with bowl size.
Fuel: what to burn for the cleanest fire
Seasoned hardwood under 20% moisture burns hottest and cleanest. Oak, maple, hickory, and ash are top choices. Avoid pine and other resinous woods, which spark heavily and coat the bowl in creosote.
For your first burn, use small pieces of seasoned hardwood and let the fire establish slowly. Do not use accelerants. The steel needs to cure gradually. A small starter fire seasons the bowl and prevents paint from flaking on first use.
Accessories worth buying
A spark screen is essential for safety, especially in dry climates. A weather cover extends the life of your pit. A fire poker lets you move logs without burning your hands. A surround tabletop turns a fire pit into a usable surface when not burning.
Most premium picks like the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 and TIKI Patio Smokeless include covers. Budget picks often sell accessories separately.
HOA and local fire regulations
Check local fire regulations before buying. Many HOAs restrict wood burning entirely. Some municipalities ban wood fires during high-fire-danger days. If you live in a restricted area, our propane fire pit tables roundup covers legal alternatives.
For indoor heating in restricted zones, our wood burning fireplace inserts and wood stoves guides cover enclosed heating options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wood burning fire pit overall?
The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is the best wood burning fire pit for most buyers. It features 360-degree airflow, double-wall stainless steel construction, a removable ash pan, and a near-smokeless burn once the fire is established. It weighs 21.8 pounds and includes a carry case for portability.
What’s the best type of wood to burn in a fire pit?
Seasoned hardwood under 20% moisture content burns hottest and cleanest. Oak, maple, hickory, and ash are top choices for wood burning fire pits. Avoid pine and other resinous woods, which spark heavily and leave creosote buildup in the bowl.
What is the best material for a wood burning fire pit?
Stainless steel and Corten steel are the most durable materials for a wood burning fire pit. Stainless steel is standard for premium smokeless pits and resists rust for years. Corten steel weathers to a protective patina and can last 10+ years outdoors. Painted steel is affordable but chips and rusts within 2 to 3 years.
What do you burn in a fire pit for the first time?
Use small pieces of seasoned hardwood for your first burn. Build a small starter fire and let it establish gradually without accelerants. This seasons the steel, cures any paint or coating, and prevents warping from thermal shock. Avoid trash, treated wood, or green wood on first use.
Do smokeless fire pits really work?
Smokeless wood burning fire pits use double-wall construction and 360-degree airflow to burn smoke particulates as fuel. Once the fire reaches cruising temperature (usually 10 to 15 minutes), visible smoke drops to almost nothing. Expect smoke at startup and shutdown regardless of design. Performance depends heavily on using dry, seasoned wood under 20% moisture.
Final Verdict: Which Wood Burning Fire Pit Should You Buy?
After burning real wood across 10 fire pits for three months, our top pick for the best wood burning fire pit is the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0. It balances smoke management, build quality, portability, and price better than any competitor in our test. The 4.8-star average across 2002 reviews confirms what we saw in our yard: this pit delivers.
If smokeless performance is your top priority and you do not need portability, the TIKI Patio Smokeless throws more heat across a wider radius. If you want a large traditional bowl for big groups without spending a fortune, the Sunnydaze Crossweave handles 6 to 8 people and includes the accessories most competitors sell separately.
For cooking over live fire, the Bali Outdoors 2-in-1 with its 360-degree swivel grate is the clear winner. For tight patios and small balconies, the SINGLYFIRE 22-Inch or Gas One 22-Inch keep the heat zone manageable. For buyers who want a fire pit table that doubles as patio furniture, the OutVue 36-Inch 3-in-1 transforms from dinner table to fire pit in minutes.
Whatever you pick, use seasoned hardwood under 20% moisture and keep a weather cover on the pit when not in use. A well-maintained wood burning fire pit lasts 5 to 10 years and delivers hundreds of evenings of warmth and ambiance. Check the latest prices on our top picks and bring the campfire home.
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