Not all firewood burns the same. Some logs vanish in a flash, while others hold their heat like a warm hug. To keep your fire glowing gently into the night, you’ll want wood that’s dense, dry, and made to go the distance.

What Makes Firewood Last All Night

A long-lasting fire starts with well-prepared wood. Here’s what to look for:

  • Hardwood over softwood: Hardwoods like oak and hickory burn longer and more steadily than softwoods.
  • Dry and seasoned: Aim for wood that’s been drying for at least 6–12 months. It should sound hollow when knocked together and show cracks at the ends.
  • Even sizes: Uniform logs burn more predictably, so you won’t be fussing with the fire every hour.

Think of your firewood stack like a pantry: stocked, ready, and suited to the occasion.

The Best Wood for an Overnight Fire

A photo of an oak tree.

Oak: The Dependable Glow

Oak is the old reliable of the firewood world. Dense and slow to burn, it holds heat beautifully and creates a steady bed of coals. It takes a little effort to get going, but once lit, it will carry your fire late into the evening.

A photo of a hickory tree.

Hickory: Hot and Fragrant

Hickory burns hot, long, and with a sweet, smoky aroma that adds charm to any summer night. It’s a bit harder to split, but its burn quality makes the extra effort worthwhile. Perfect for keeping guests cozy past midnight.

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Maple: Smooth and Steady

Maple gives off a clean, steady burn with minimal smoke. It’s a bit more approachable than oak or hickory, making it great for folks who want something dependable without being too intense. A few maple logs in your mix help round out the fire nicely.

green leaf plant during daytime

Beech: The Underrated Performer

Beech might not be as famous, but it holds its own. It catches well, burns evenly, and pairs nicely with denser woods for a longer-lasting flame. If you come across it, don’t pass it up. It’s a great addition to your stack.

Avoid softwoods like pine or fir for overnight use. They burn quickly, spark often, and can leave behind a mess of ash or sap.

Building a Fire That Burns Through the Night

Once you’ve got the right wood, how you build the fire matters too. Start with kindling and smaller pieces to establish your flame. Once it’s strong, layer on a few of your hardwood logs.

Stack them with airflow in mind. They should be loose enough for oxygen to flow, but tight enough to contain the heat. The “log cabin” or teepee style works well early on. As the fire matures, add larger logs and resist the urge to stir too much. Let the embers do the heavy lifting.

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“To poke a wood fire is more solid enjoyment than almost anything else in the world.”

Charles Dudley Warner

Finishing Touches for a Memorable Night

Long fires are about more than the wood. They’re about comfort, conversation, and setting the scene. Here’s how to elevate the experience:

  • Keep extra logs close by so you don’t have to leave the glow
  • Lay out soft throws and cushions to keep guests cozy
  • Set out late-night snacks or a tray of drinks nearby
  • Have long-handled tools on hand for easy tending

A little planning goes a long way. With the right firewood and setup, your backyard becomes the coziest spot on the block.

Getting ready for an all-night fire? Browse our directory of local firewood delivery and suppliers to find seasoned hardwood that’s ready when you are.