All fire types need the same basic elements. Those elements are fuel, oxygen, and heat. If you are new to the creation of fire, you may want to consider purchasing fire starting logs. These are individually wrapped and fast lighting. Depending on how large of a fire you plan to create, a bonfire log may be more useful. If you do not have any fire starting logs, dry kindling and tinder such as twigs, grass and leaves will do. You can also collect dry wood in the form of tree branches and logs. You will also need a lighter, matches, or any object that can be used to create a spark.
Teepee fires are one of the easiest campfires to build. Its name refers to the way logs are stacked causing it to resemble Native American Teepees.
This fire burns hot and consumes wood quickly, therefore it is best used for a quick warm-up. It will also be handy for small cooking tasks.
Log cabin fires use the same type of logs one would find in their home fireplace. These logs are large and thick, not at all like the smaller ones you use for the teepee campfire.
Note: It is best to light the fire from the bottom. This fire requires minimum effort to maintain and gives a sustained burn.
The Indian fire is also known as a star fire. This particular fire is recognisable as the type of campfires depicted in the old West. You start by creating a small teepee fire using only kindling. Next you lay five campfire logs around it arranged so that they resemble wheel spokes or a star. Then you light the ends of the logs closest to the centre. The fire will burn up along the logs. You continue to push the logs inwards as the fire burns. This is the best fire type when your wood supply is low as it creates a slow burning fire. It is also quick and easy to extinguish by simply pulling the logs away from the centre of the fire.
If you need a campfire that does not require constant tending, the fire pyramid is the best way to go. This fire can burn up to 1 hour unattended. To build this type of fire, start by collecting logs of different lengths. Place 5 same size logs parallel to each other in your fire pit. Next stack 5 slightly smaller logs perpendicularly on top of the first row. Continue this process for 5-7 layers forming a small pyramid. Be sure to leave space at the top to add tinder, then top off your pyramid with kindling. Light your fire by reaching through the logs and lighting the tinder. The fire pyramid is the best type of fire for your campsite because it is self-sustaining and lasts for at least an hour.
Whether you are using a survival cabin or a tent, you may be wondering how to safely keep your shelter warm. It is actually quite simple. First you want to find a nice sized dry rock.
Note: Water logged rocks explode when heated. Dig a hole that fits the rock. Using your preferred campfire method, heat the rock. You will want to heat the rock for 1-2 hours, so the pyramids self-sustaining long lasting fire would be the best fire type for this. Once the rock is heated, transfer it to your pit. You can even seal the pit by placing a flatter rock over the hole after inserting the heated rock. For sustained heat, have another rock in the fire ready to switch out.
