Campfire Safety for Motorhome Adventures

If you love cooking over a fire or warming up after a long day on the road, you need to know how to keep that fire under control. A safe campfire protects your motorhome, the campsite, and the environment. Below are simple steps you can follow every time you strike a match.

Planning Your Campfire

First, pick a spot that’s approved for open fires. Most motorhome sites have a designated fire ring or a cleared area away from tents, caravans, and trees. If you’re on wild land, clear a circle at least 2 metres wide, remove leaves, twigs, and anything that could catch fire.

Gather the right wood. Use dry, seasoned branches that snap cleanly. Avoid driftwood, as it can pop and send sparks flying. Keep a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby – you’ll need it the moment the fire looks out of control.

Start small. A tee‑pee or log cabin structure lets the fire breathe and makes it easier to manage. Light the kindling with a match or a lighter, never with gasoline or accelerants. Once the flames are steady, add larger pieces slowly.

Putting the Fire Out Safely

Never leave a fire unattended, even for a few minutes. When you’re ready to go to sleep or head back to the motorhome, start cooling the fire down. Sprinkle water or sand over the embers, stir the ash with a stick, and repeat until the hissing stops and the material is cool to the touch.

Check the whole pit – there should be no glowing spots. A metal spoon or the back of a glove works well for feeling the temperature. If anything still feels warm, add more water and stir again.

When the fire is completely out, pack out any leftover wood or ash if the site rules require it. This helps keep the area clean and reduces fire risk for the next camper.

Quick safety checklist:

• Use only approved fire areas.
• Keep water or sand within arm’s reach.
• Never add flammable liquids.
• Never leave the fire unattended.
• Fully extinguish before sleeping or leaving the site.

Following these habits means you can enjoy the warmth and smell of a campfire without worrying about accidents. Your motorhome stays safe, the campsite stays tidy, and you leave nature just as you found it.

Remember, most campsite rules are there for a reason. If a site bans open fires, respect that rule and use a portable stove instead. You’ll still get a hot meal and a cozy vibe without any fire danger.

Enjoy your road trips, keep the fire under control, and make every night by the campfire a memory worth sharing.