Why Planning Your Firewood Stock Matters

Camping in August means longer days but cooler nights. A well-prepared firewood stock ensures you’re covered for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. Seasoned hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple burn longer and hotter, making them ideal for extended trips. Green or freshly cut wood, on the other hand, can smoke and sputter, turning your cozy fire into a smoky mess.

Properly seasoned firewood has been dried for 6 to 12 months and has a moisture content below 20%.

Start assessing your needs based on the number of nights you’re camping and your planned activities. Will you be cooking every meal over the fire? Hosting fireside gatherings? These details help you calculate how much to bring.

Best Types of Firewood for Camping

Not all firewood is created equal. Some burn hot and fast, while others provide a slow, steady heat. Here’s a quick list of top picks for late-summer adventures:

  • Oak: Dense and long-burning, perfect for all-night fires
  • Hickory: Excellent for both heat and cooking, with a pleasant aroma
  • Maple: Burns clean and hot, ideal for cooking
  • Birch: Burns quickly and gives a bright flame, great for quick warmth

Avoid softwoods like pine or spruce for your primary firewood stock. They burn quickly and can pop or spark, which isn’t ideal near tents or wooded areas.

How to Pack and Transport Your Firewood

Once you’ve chosen your wood, packing it properly is crucial. Use breathable bags or crates to keep the logs dry and air-circulated. Avoid sealing them in plastic, which can trap moisture. Keep your firewood in a shaded area of your car or trailer, away from wet gear or cooler leaks.

Also, be mindful of local regulations—many campsites prohibit bringing firewood from out of state due to the risk of spreading invasive pests. Whenever possible, source wood locally or from an approved vendor listed in a firewood delivery directory.

Make Firewood Part of the Experience

Your firewood stock isn’t just fuel, it’s part of your camping tradition. The scent of hickory smoke, the crackle of the fire, and the shared warmth under the stars all add to the magic. With a little forethought, you can make sure you have the right wood, in the right amount, for every moment.

Looking for local firewood? Find local firewood delivery and suppliers in our directory.