Camping is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. One of the best parts of camping is gathering around a campfire in the evening to roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy the warmth and light that a fire provides. However, campfires can also be dangerous if not properly managed. That's why it's important to follow some simple do's and don'ts when building and maintaining a campfire at your tenting and camping site.

First, let's go over some campfire do's:

Do choose a safe location for your campfire. Make sure it's at least 15 feet away from your tent, trees, and other flammable materials. Clear any debris from the area and make sure there are no overhanging branches that could catch fire.

Do use a fire ring or pit if one is available. This will help contain the fire and prevent it from spreading beyond the designated area.

Do keep a bucket of water, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher nearby in case the fire starts to get out of control. You should also never leave the campfire unattended.

Do use only local firewood. This helps prevent the spread of invasive species and diseases that can harm the local ecosystem. It's also a good idea to buy firewood from a local vendor to support the community.

Do build the campfire slowly and carefully. Start with small sticks and kindling, gradually adding larger pieces of wood as the fire grows. This will help prevent the fire from getting too big too quickly.

Now, let's talk about some campfire don'ts:

Don't use gasoline or other accelerants to start a fire. This can cause the fire to grow out of control and lead to serious injuries or damage to the environment. Stick to traditional fire-starting methods like matches or a lighter.

Don't burn trash or other non-natural materials in your campfire. This can release harmful chemicals into the air and harm the environment. Stick to burning only wood, paper, or other natural materials.

Don't leave the campfire burning overnight. Make sure to fully extinguish the fire before going to bed, using water and a shovel to put out any remaining embers.

Don't build a campfire if the conditions are too dry or windy. This can increase the risk of the fire spreading out of control. Check with the local authorities or campground staff to make sure it's safe to have a campfire.

Don't try to move a burning log or stick from the fire. This can cause the fire to spread and lead to burns or other injuries. Let the fire burn out naturally and then carefully extinguish the embers.

By following these simple do's and don'ts, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable campfire experience at your tenting and camping site. Remember, the key to a successful campfire is proper preparation and vigilance. So gather your friends and family, grab some marshmallows, and enjoy the warmth and light of a well-managed campfire in the great outdoors.