How to build a Campfire for Cooking
The best cooking fire will have all the wood turn into coals at the same time. Finding the right spot
for the fire is important.
Select a fire site at least 10' from bushes, tents, RV's or any combustibles. Be sure no tree branches overhang the site.
Make a U-shaped perimeter using large rocks . Build the U so the back of fire pit faces the wind.
Put a large flat rock at the rear of the fire pit to act as a chimney. The "chimney rock" will direct the smoke up and away from the fire area.
Fill the fire area with crumpled paper or tinder. You may add a couple charcoal briquettes.
Lay kindling over paper in layers, alternating direction with each layer. Use thin splits of wood or small dead branches.
The whole fire area should be covered with the kindling stack.
Keep a bucket of water near the fire area. Light the paper to start your fire.
When kindling is in full blaze, add firewood. The wood should be all the same size, as much as possible. Many campgrounds offer firewood for sale.
Use hardwood or hardwood branches if available. Distribute wood evenly over fire area, not just in the center.
As soon as the flames die down leaving mostly white coals, use a flat stick to push the coals into a high level at the back end and low level at the front. This will give you
the equivalent of 'Hi', 'Med' and 'Lo' cook settings. Place food on your grill and place
over desired heat level. Or use long fire sticks to toast marshmallows or roast hot dogs. Use caution.
After cooking, throw on a log or two for your evening campfire.
ENJOY! Before leaving the campfire, extinguish thoroughly and
soak with water. Turn rocks in on fire bed. It will be easy to reassemble the next day if required.
Always have someone watching your campfire never leave it unattended. |
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