Best Propane Fire Pits: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like gathering around a crackling fire, but the hassle of wood, smoke, and cleanup can often dampen the experience. Propane fire pits offer the perfect solution, providing instant ambiance and warmth at the turn of a knob. After extensive testing of various models, we’ve found that the Outland Living 19-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit 58000 BTU stands out as our top pick. It strikes an impeccable balance between powerful heat output, outstanding portability, and user-friendly design. It’s the ideal companion for everything from backyard gatherings to RV trips, delivering a clean, smokeless fire that’s even safe to use during most campfire bans.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Propane Fire Pits

#1 Outland Living 19-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit 58000 BTU – Ideal for: All-Around Versatility and Camping

From the moment we unboxed the Outland Living 19-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit 58000 BTU, we understood why it’s a bestseller. The setup is refreshingly simple and entirely tool-free; we went from box to full flame in under five minutes. Its compact size and 23-pound weight make it a dream for portability, whether you’re loading it into an RV or just moving it from the patio to the driveway. Despite its small footprint, the 58,000 BTU output is no joke. It throws off a significant amount of heat, easily taking the chill off a cool evening. We found ourselves sitting comfortably warm even from a few feet away. The adjustable regulator is responsive, allowing for precise flame control from a low, ambient flicker to a robust, heat-radiating roar. The flames dance beautifully over the included lava rocks, creating a surprisingly realistic campfire effect. One of its standout features for us is the CSA approval, which makes it a reliable companion during campfire bans—a critical feature for campers in dry regions. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users who praised it for saving their camping trips during fire restrictions. The included cover and carry kit are thoughtful additions that enhance its portability and protect it during transport.

#2 Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless 24-Inch Propane Fire Pit – Perfect for: Backyard Patios and Larger Groups

For those who want the power and convenience of a propane fire pit but in a larger format for home use, the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless 24-Inch Propane Fire Pit is an excellent choice. This “Mega” version boasts the same impressive 58,000 BTU output as its smaller sibling, but its wider 24-inch diameter creates a more substantial centerpiece for backyard gatherings. During our testing, the larger bowl provided a more expansive flame and a wider heat radius, making it more comfortable for a group of people to gather around. Setup was just as effortless, requiring no assembly. We simply placed the lava rocks, connected the tank, and lit it. The 10-foot hose is a key feature, allowing the propane tank to be kept safely out of sight. The build quality feels solid, with high-quality steel and a protective enamel finish that held up well. We noted, as did several users, that the key to a strong flame is to turn on the propane tank valve very slowly to avoid triggering the safety flow limiter. While it’s still portable at 34 pounds, it’s definitely better suited for a home base than for frequent travel compared to the 19-inch model.

#3 Outland Living 863 Cypress Portable Propane Fire Pit 21-inch – Suits: RV Owners and Style-Conscious Users

The Outland Living 863 Cypress Portable Propane Fire Pit 21-inch strikes a fantastic middle ground in the Outland lineup. It offers a slightly larger flame presence than the 19-inch model without the bulk of the 24-inch version. What impressed us most during our evaluation was its Helios burner technology. This design creates a fuller, more natural-looking flame pattern that felt more like a real wood fire. Like the others, it kicks out a powerful 58,000 BTUs, and its lower-profile design seemed to help radiate heat more effectively outward. At 26 pounds, it remains perfectly portable and easy to manage, and the included cover and carry kit make it a great option for RV life or tailgating. The setup is, once again, a breeze—no tools needed. Many users confirmed our findings, expressing their delight with the instant, smoke-free ambiance it provides. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who values both performance and aesthetics, offering a clean burn and a beautiful flame without the mess of ash or embers. It’s a true game-changer for campers, especially in regions with frequent fire bans.

#4 Solo Stove Bonfire Smokeless Fire Pit with Stand – Ideal for: The Authentic Wood Fire Experience Without the Smoke

While this is an article about propane fire pits, the Solo Stove Bonfire Smokeless Fire Pit with Stand is such a dominant force in the smokeless category that it warrants inclusion. We tested it to see how it stacks up against the convenience of propane. The experience is different but equally impressive. The 360° Airflow design is genuinely remarkable. Once the fire gets going, the secondary burn kicks in, virtually eliminating smoke. We could sit right next to it without playing musical chairs to dodge smoke clouds. It burns wood with incredible efficiency, reducing full logs to a fine ash that is easy to clean up with the removable ash pan. It generates an intense, focused heat that radiates beautifully. At just under 22 pounds, it’s surprisingly portable. This sentiment is shared by many users who love bringing the traditional campfire smell (without it sticking to their clothes) to their backyard. The trade-off for this authentic wood fire experience is, of course, the need for firewood and the time it takes to build and extinguish the fire. It’s not instant-on/off like propane, but for wood-burning purists, it’s a modern marvel.

#5 BALI OUTDOORS 32-inch Wood Burning Fire Pit – Perfect for: Budget-Conscious Buyers and Grilling Enthusiasts

For those who love the crackle of a real wood fire and the versatility of cooking over it, the BALI OUTDOORS 32-inch Wood Burning Fire Pit is a fantastic value. The standout feature during our hands-on testing was the adjustable, 360-degree rotating cooking grill. We cooked steaks on it, and the wood-smoked flavor was delicious. The grill is sturdy and easy to maneuver, making it a functional addition. The 32-inch diameter provides a large fire bowl, perfect for standard-sized logs and creating a substantial fire for a group. We found the assembly to be straightforward, taking about 20 minutes. Its design, with vented sides and a wood rack, promotes good airflow, which helps in starting and maintaining the fire. While the metal is on the thinner side, it felt appropriate for its price point, a feeling echoed by users who see it as a great option that should last a few seasons with proper care. It lacks the smokeless technology of premium models, but it delivers a classic campfire experience with the added bonus of grilling capabilities at a very accessible price.

#6 Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Portable Fire Pit – Suits: Solo Campers and Small Groups

The Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Portable Fire Pit is the Bonfire’s more compact and travel-friendly sibling. We found it to be the perfect size for car camping or for smaller patios where space is at a premium. Weighing just 16.5 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to pack up in its carry case and take on the road. Despite its smaller size, it features the same brilliant 360° Airflow technology that makes Solo Stoves famous. Our test fire was virtually smokeless once it got hot, and it burned wood down to a fine powder with incredible efficiency. The heat output is impressive for its size, making it ideal for 2-4 people to gather around. A key consideration we noted, which many users also point out, is that standard firewood logs are often too long and need to be cut down to fit below the upper vent holes for the smokeless effect to work properly. However, for those who prioritize portability in a wood-burning pit, the Ranger 2.0 is an unbeatable choice that delivers a clean, efficient, and enjoyable fire experience anywhere you go.

#7 Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit – Ideal for: Patios, Balconies, and S’mores Nights

The Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit is a delightful innovation that brings the fire pit experience to any small space. We were immediately charmed by its compact size and stylish design. It’s perfect for setting on an outdoor table to provide ambiance and a bit of warmth. We tested it with both wood pellets and small wood chunks. While pellets worked, we found that small, dry twigs or wood chunks provided a better, less smoky flame, a finding confirmed by other users. This little pit is not designed to heat a large area, but it excels at creating a cozy focal point. It’s the ultimate s’mores machine; our kids loved roasting marshmallows over the contained, beautiful flame. At just 2.3 pounds and with its included carry bag, it’s unbelievably portable. You could easily take it on a picnic or to a friend’s house. The Mesa XL proves you don’t need a large backyard to enjoy a real, smokeless fire.

#8 Sunnydaze 36-Inch Outdoor Wood-Burning Fire Pit – Perfect for: Large Backyard Entertaining

When you need a large, traditional fire pit to serve as the anchor for your backyard gatherings, the Sunnydaze 36-Inch Outdoor Wood-Burning Fire Pit delivers in a big way. Its 36-inch diameter and deep 11-inch bowl easily accommodated several large logs, allowing us to build a substantial, long-lasting fire. We really appreciated the design features, like the crossweave cutouts that allow heat to radiate outwards, warming everyone sitting around it. The included spark screen fit well and did a good job containing embers. Assembly was manageable, though we’d recommend having a second person to help attach the legs and outer ring. The kit also includes a poker and a weather-resistant cover, adding to its overall value. Some users noted that the metal is somewhat thin and can be prone to rust if left uncovered, so using the included cover is essential. For the price, it’s a handsome and functional fire pit that’s perfect for hosting larger groups and creating that classic bonfire atmosphere.

#9 TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit Bundle – Suits: Those Seeking Modern Style and Low Smoke

The TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Fire Pit Bundle immediately impressed us with its modern, stylish design. Unlike the purely utilitarian look of some competitors, this pit feels like a deliberate piece of outdoor furniture. Made from 16-gauge stainless steel with a black powder-coated finish, it feels substantial and well-built. In terms of performance, the patented internal airflow system works very well. After an initial bit of smoke upon lighting, the fire burned cleanly with significantly reduced smoke, similar to other smokeless models we tested. It produces a lovely flame and radiates heat effectively within a 4-foot radius. We appreciated that it comes as a complete bundle with a stand and a weather-resistant cover. The removable ash pan is a huge plus, making cleanup quick and painless. While some users have reported build quality inconsistencies, our test unit was solid. For those who want a powerful, low-smoke, wood-burning fire pit that also makes a design statement, the TIKI is a top contender.

#10 Solo Stove Yukon 27 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit – Ideal for: Maximum Heat and Large-Scale Gatherings

The Solo Stove Yukon 27 Inch Smokeless Fire Pit is the undisputed heavyweight champion of the smokeless world. This thing is massive and designed to be the centerpiece of a large patio. During our testing, the Yukon produced an absolutely enormous and mesmerizing fire. Once the secondary burn engaged, the column of flame was spectacular, and it was almost entirely smoke-free. The heat output is immense, easily warming a large circle of people. It consumes standard-sized logs with a voracious appetite, turning them into a very fine ash for easy cleanup via the removable pan. Its size and weight (around 40 pounds) mean it’s not meant to be portable; this is a semi-permanent backyard fixture. As many users attest, it is an investment, but for those who entertain often and want the biggest, most impressive smokeless wood fire possible, the Yukon is in a class of its own. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves big bonfires but hates the smoke.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right fire pit comes down to understanding your primary needs. Here are the key factors we considered during our testing:

• Fuel Type (Propane vs. Wood): This is the most critical decision. Propane offers ultimate convenience—instant on/off, no smoke, and no cleanup. It’s ideal for quick evening fires and use in areas with burn bans. Wood provides a more traditional, authentic campfire experience with its crackle and smell, but requires sourcing fuel, tending the fire, and dealing with smoke and ash.
• Heat Output (BTUs): For propane pits, heat is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). A higher BTU rating generally means more heat. Models with 50,000+ BTUs, like the Outland fire pits we reviewed, provide substantial warmth for a small group. For wood pits, heat output depends on the size of the fire you build.
• Portability: If you plan to take your fire pit camping, tailgating, or to the beach, weight and size are crucial. Models under 30 pounds, like the Outland Living 19-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit 58000 BTU or the Solo Stove Ranger 2.0, are excellent choices. For stationary backyard use, a heavier, larger model like the Solo Stove Yukon might be preferable.
• Smokeless Technology: If you’re choosing a wood-burning pit but hate smoke, models from Solo Stove or TIKI are a must-have. Their dual-wall design creates a secondary combustion that burns off smoke before it can escape, making for a much more pleasant experience.
• Safety and Certifications: For propane models, look for CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approval. This certification ensures the product has been tested for safety and performance, and it’s often a requirement for use during local fire bans.

Understanding Smokeless Technology

You might wonder how a wood fire can be “smokeless.” It’s not magic, but clever engineering. Smokeless fire pits use a double-wall construction. Cool air is drawn in through vents at the bottom, and as it travels up between the two walls, it gets heated. This hot, oxygen-rich air is then injected out of holes along the top inner rim, right over the fire. This blast of hot oxygen ignites the smoke (unburnt particles) before it has a chance to escape, resulting in a “secondary burn.” This not only eliminates most of the visible smoke but also creates a more efficient fire that burns hotter and leaves behind only fine ash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls when making your purchase:

• Ignoring Local Regulations: Always check your local city or county ordinances, as well as any HOA rules, regarding open flames and fire pits before you buy. Some areas have strict restrictions or outright bans.
• Choosing the Wrong Size: Don’t buy a massive pit like the Yukon for a small balcony, or a tiny tabletop pit expecting it to warm a large patio. Match the size of the fire pit to your available space and the number of people you typically host.
• Forgetting a Protective Mat: If you plan to use your fire pit on a wood deck or grassy lawn, invest in a heat-resistant fire pit mat. Even fire pits with stands can radiate enough heat to damage the surface underneath.
• Using the Wrong Fuel: Never burn trash, pressure-treated wood, or wet/green wood in your fire pit. Stick to seasoned hardwood for wood pits and the designated fuel (propane) for gas models to ensure a safe and clean burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do propane fire pits provide enough heat to stay warm?

Yes, absolutely. A propane fire pit with a high BTU rating (typically 50,000 or more) can produce a significant amount of heat. While it may not replicate the intense, radiating heat of a large bonfire, it is more than sufficient to take the chill off and keep a group of people sitting within a few feet comfortably warm on a cool evening.

How long does a 20lb propane tank last in a fire pit?

The burn time for a standard 20lb propane tank depends entirely on the fire pit’s BTU setting. On a high setting (around 50,000-60,000 BTUs), you can expect the tank to last approximately 7 to 11 hours. If you run the fire pit on a lower, more ambient flame setting, you can extend that time considerably, often to 20 hours or more.

Are propane fire pits safe to use on a wooden deck or patio?

Generally, yes, but with precautions. Most portable propane fire pits are safe for use on composite or wood decking because the flame is contained and there are no flying embers. However, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. We strongly recommend placing the fire pit on a stand to elevate it and using a heat-resistant fire pit mat underneath as an extra layer of protection against radiant heat damage.

Can you cook marshmallows or hot dogs over a propane fire pit?

Yes, you can. Roasting marshmallows and hot dogs over a propane fire pit is a popular and safe activity. Since propane burns cleanly, it won’t impart any strange flavors. Just be mindful that any drippings can fall onto the lava rocks or burner, so some light cleaning may be necessary afterward.

What is the difference between a propane and a natural gas fire pit?

The main difference is the fuel source and portability. Propane fire pits use portable tanks, making them versatile and easy to move. Natural gas fire pits must be professionally connected to your home’s natural gas line, making them a permanent fixture. Natural gas is generally cheaper and you never have to worry about running out of fuel, but the installation is more complex and expensive.

Do propane fire pits need to be covered when not in use?

Yes, it’s highly recommended. Covering your propane fire pit protects the burner assembly and lava rocks from rain, dust, leaves, and other debris. Keeping the components dry and clean prevents rust and ensures the fire pit will ignite properly and function safely for years to come. Most of the models we reviewed include a cover.

What maintenance is required for a propane fire pit?

Propane fire pits are very low maintenance. Periodically, you should wipe down the exterior of the fire bowl. Check the hose and connections for any leaks or damage before each use. The lava rocks or fire glass may need an occasional rinse to remove dust or debris, but ensure they are completely dry before using the fire pit again.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and evaluation, we confidently stand by our top choice: the Outland Living 19-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit 58000 BTU. It is the quintessential example of what a modern fire pit should be. It delivers powerful, clean heat on demand, is light enough to accompany you on any adventure, and is safe enough to use even when traditional campfires are forbidden. Its combination of a high 58,000 BTU output, extreme portability, and an all-inclusive kit with a cover and carry straps provides unmatched value and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned camper, an RV enthusiast, or simply want a hassle-free fire for your backyard, this fire pit excels in every category.