Learn about the 3 types of campfires for wilderness survival

Knowing how to build a bonfire is not a concern for most people, due to the conveniences that electricity provides in their daily lives. However, understanding the different types of bonfires is essential for survivalists or those interested in camping and venturing into the wilderness.

Mastering primitive fire-starting techniques can be very useful in emergency situations, such as creating a type of signal if you get lost in the forest, or making do if you don't have the right tools. A bonfire can be used to cook food, warm and light up a cold night, keep insects away, among other functions.

Here, on the Cutelaria CIMO blog, we always bring useful tips and information for survivalists, travelers, and extreme sports enthusiasts. In this post, we will talk about the 3 types of bonfires you need to know to survive in the wilderness.

Why is it important to know the different types of bonfires?

Those who enjoy venturing into nature know the value of the saying "better safe than sorry," especially if the adventure involves spending the night in the wilderness. Even those who choose a camping site for an overnight stay need to prepare adequately, as often, you can't count on excellent infrastructure at the location.

It is extremely important to be well-equipped to explore the forest. On the Cutelaria CIMO website, for example, we have various tools and barbecue accessories to accompany you on this mission. However, we cannot forget your main instrument: knowledge.

It's not always possible to carry all the equipment and accessories that might be used, because the backpack would become too heavy. Even if you had everything you needed, objects could get lost along the way or become damaged in an unexpected situation, and you must be prepared.

Therefore, your baggage of experience counts for a lot. If you haven't had many opportunities to build bonfires in the forest or at a campsite, don't worry! Below, we will explain the main types of bonfires and how to create them.

How to build a bonfire in the wilderness?

We recommend that you always carry a box of matches, a lighter, or a ferro rod on all adventures, in case you need fire in any situation, but unforeseen circumstances can happen. Matches can get wet from rain or river water, for example.

In these cases, it's important that you know how to make primitive fire. A great tip is to practice in an open space before the adventure, to become an expert in the method and avoid unpleasant surprises when you really need it. See our summarized step-by-step guide:

• Choose a suitable location – a clearing helps reduce the risk of fires;
• Clear the chosen spot to prevent the fire from spreading;
• To start the fire, rub the ferro rod and a pocket knife together, as if sharpening the object.
• If you don't have tools, try rubbing two sticks or stones together to generate a spark and use dry straw (or fibers from palm fronds, for example) to catch it and start the bonfire;
• Use small leaves and dry branches as fuel for the fire;
• Once the fire is started, add larger logs to keep the bonfire burning longer. Be sure to surround it with stones – protecting the vegetation – and extinguish it when leaving the site.

What types of bonfires should I know?

A bonfire can have different configurations, depending on its objectives. Learn about the main ones so you can protect yourself in nature.

SIGNALING

• Signaling Fire

This is one of the simplest ways to signal your location when lost in dense bush. Build the fire normally with twigs and dry leaves. Then, throw green leaves into the fire.

This will create a lot of smoke, drawing the attention of anyone observing the area from a distance. This technique also works to ward off insects and small animals.

LIGHT AND HEAT

• Reflector Fire

To warm up a cold night of outdoor camping, try this setup: light the bonfire normally and surround it with green logs or tall stones. Make sure the wind blows towards the barrier and not towards the tent, to avoid accidents. This way, the heat goes in only one direction, as determined by you.

• Teepee Fire

In addition to warming the environment, this fire helps with illumination, making nocturnal activities easier. Place logs as a base, positioned in a square shape, approximately 1 meter on each side. Fill the internal space with several logs, arranging them to form a cone.

In this position, the logs are consumed quickly. For the bonfire to stay lit throughout the night, cover the thicker logs with ashes and dry earth to preserve the flames.

FOOD

• Hunter's Fire

To cook in the wilderness, prepare this bonfire, which is a favorite among adventurers. Position two green logs (or large stones) parallel to each other, with a small space between them.

The wider opening should face the wind, while the narrower one will serve to hold pots, which can be hung from a sturdy branch positioned above the logs or placed directly on the fire.

• Trench Fire

This bonfire is also suitable for preparing meals; it's more protected from the wind and recommended for warm days. The configuration is similar to the Hunter's Fire, but instead of using branches to delimit the space, dig a shallow trench in the ground.

Place the firewood inside the trench and position branches crosswise over the hole to support the pots. The only disadvantage is having to sit or squat while cooking.

• Cooking Altar

This bonfire, widely used in Brazilian June Festivals, is ideal when the ground is very wet. Stack logs and branches to create a rectangle tall enough for you to cook standing up.

Fill the inside of the rectangle with mud and place the firewood on top. This technique requires more practice than the others, but with time, it becomes simpler.

Always remember to check if it is permitted to light bonfires in the location you are in, whether in the middle of the forest or in a private camping site. Before leaving the area, make sure the fire is completely extinguished.

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