When the days are long and the evenings warm, it’s easy to forget how important summer firewood can be. Whether you’re grilling outside, gathering around a fire pit, or planning ahead for cooler nights, the right firewood choice makes all the difference. Storing it properly ensures every log burns bright, clean, and safe.

Why Summer Firewood Deserves Special Attention

Summer is the perfect season for outdoor entertaining. From backyard BBQs to lakeside getaways, having dry, ready-to-burn wood on hand keeps the good times rolling. But high humidity and surprise showers can spoil your stash fast if it’s not stored well.

Freshly cut wood can take 6 to 12 months to dry, so summer is also your golden window for prepping firewood for fall. Choose wisely now and you’ll be ahead of the game come autumn. Think of it as stocking your pantry, only instead of canned goods, it’s the sweet scent of applewood and the warmth of a perfectly tended flame.

Choosing the Best Firewood for Summer Use

Not all firewood is created equal. In warmer months, the goal is to strike a balance between quick ignition, manageable heat, and a pleasing aroma that enhances the outdoor experience. You’re not building a raging winter fire, you’re setting the mood for slow evenings and easy outdoor meals.

  • Cherry: Delivers a mild, fruity scent and steady burn. Perfect for social fires and gentle warmth.
  • Apple: A favorite among grillers for its subtle aroma that pairs well with everything from chicken to stone fruits.
  • Ash: Lights easily and burns evenly, making it reliable even if it hasn’t fully seasoned.
  • Maple: A clean-burning hardwood that’s versatile enough for both cooking and light heat.

Avoid denser hardwoods like oak and hickory unless you’re setting some aside for autumn. They burn hot and long, more than you need for a July marshmallow roast.

Smart Storage: Keeping Your Summer Firewood Dry and Ready

The trick to great summer fires isn’t just the wood, it’s how you store it. Even the best logs will struggle to burn if they’re damp or moldy. Here’s how to keep your firewood in prime condition, rain or shine:

  1. Elevate it: Use pallets, cinder blocks, or a firewood rack to keep logs off the damp ground.
  2. Pick a dry, breezy spot: The best place is sunny during the day and sheltered from heavy rains. A backyard shed with open sides or a lean-to works beautifully.
  3. Cover the top, not the sides: Air circulation is key. Use a tarp, roofing sheet, or custom firewood cover that shields the stack from above while letting it breathe.
  4. Stack it with airflow in mind: Criss-crossing or loose stacking helps moisture evaporate more quickly. A good rule of thumb, if you can see light between the logs, air can move too.

Well-stored firewood smells like the forest floor after rain: earthy, dry, and ready to burn.

Adding a rustic woodpile near your patio or fire pit can also serve as a decorative feature. Just be sure it’s well supported and at least a few feet from your home or any flammable materials.

Tips for Burning Firewood in Warm Weather

Summer fires are less about survival and more about experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or winding down after a day outside, the ambiance matters. Here’s how to get the most out of your summer firewood sessions:

  • Start small: Use kindling and small splits to control heat and avoid overpowering your guests.
  • Time it right: Wait until dusk, when temperatures dip and your fire becomes more of a comfort.
  • Mind the wind: Position your fire pit to direct smoke away from seating areas and food setups.
  • Use a screen: This keeps popping embers in check, especially important with lighter, aromatic woods.

And always keep a bucket of water or hose nearby. Fires may be friendlier in summer, but safety still comes first.

Planning Ahead: From Summer Wood to Fall Stockpile

One of the best parts of summer firewood is its dual purpose. What doesn’t get burned in July can be a head start on your autumn supply. Keep a running list of your favorite wood types, note how long they take to season, and start collecting now.

If you’re planning to cut your own wood, summer is the season to do it. Trees are easier to identify by foliage, and the hot, dry weather jumpstarts the seasoning process. Split logs as soon as you cut them to speed up drying time.

Make Firewood Part of Your Summer Routine

Just like grilling, gardening, or sprucing up the patio, managing your summer firewood can be a simple, satisfying ritual. It connects you with the rhythm of the seasons and adds richness to everyday outdoor life.

And when cooler nights roll in, you’ll be glad you planned ahead, because nothing beats the glow of a fire you’ve prepared for with care.

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