Best Portable Propane Fire Pit for Your Backyard and Fun with Grilling
Ashes and smokes are perhaps the worst enemies of any open pit. These two can ruin any campfire, outing, or get-together in the backyard unless you have the best portable propane fire pit.
Yes, this compact but highly efficient gas pit will light the most soothing fire while cooking the juiciest hotdog for the party. And yes, you will also enjoy the softest marshmallow between the chocolate bars.
You must be looking for such a nice propane fire pit for the next outdoor party. Well, your search is over as we have reviewed and rounded up the 5-top-notch easy-to-carry propane gas fire pit for you. Pick one from these and simply turn on the fire. The gas and the glow will do the rest.
Top Picks
- Best Overall – Outland Living Premium Portable Propane Fire Pit
- Best Portable Propane Fire Pit for Camping – Heininger Outdoor Fire Pit
- Best Small Portable Propane Fire Pit – Camp Chef Compact Fire Ring
- Best For Large Group – Bali Outdoor 42-inch fire pit for Outdoor
Best Portable Propane Fire Pits For Camping, RVing, And Home
1. Outland Living Firebowl Premium Outdoor Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit
This portable propane campfire pit is higher in height and quality than its counterparts. You can safely place the heater on any surface as the fire source is slightly higher. Moreover, the high-quality steel rim with an enamel finish gives it a trendy look in any outdoor wood campfire.
If you are looking for more heat and flame, Outland Firebowl 883 is the one. The 58,000 BTU ratings produce enough heat to roast, fry, or even small grilling. You will also love the warmth in winter mornings with a cup of coffee, unlike any wood fire pit.
One of the best things about this fire pit is the safety lid. Other propane fire pits may come with carrying bags but not with any cover and carry kit. You will miss the bag for this model, but the carry kit straps will help you move this medium-weight gas pit.
- Safety lids to cover the pit
- You can use grate and griddle for cooking
- Matchless ignition
- Safe for almost any surface
- Adjustable chrome valve knob
- Some units make hissing noise in the high heat setting
- Rim may chip off if not stored properly
2. Camp Chef Portable Compact Propane Gas Pit
Think about a great evening while gathering around a compact portable propane campfire pit and enjoying snacks. Only the Camp Chef Compact pit can give you such a pleasant time with some basic but essential features.
This super-affordable gas pit is easy to assemble and ignite. Matchless ignition and adjustable heat control knob will keep the entire routing a hassle-free task. And don’t worry about the durability of the pit. The heavy-gauge steel can handle any rough handling and tough condition.
You will enjoy both the color of the flame and the heat of the flare. The 55,000 BTU rating is enough for a warm party of 6 to 8 people. Moreover, roasting snacks like corn, hotdogs, or marshmallows are easy with the flame.
You need to be careful about the quickly heated bottom and smelly lava rock during the curing process. However, it will still be safe than any wood-burning fire pit.
- Easy to set-up
- The adapter works both with refillable or disposable bottle
- Great for a small outdoor party
- Adjustable flame height goes up to 10-inches high
- Economic in gas use
- Lava rock dust spills during the setup
- Not safe to put on any table as the underside get hot too quickly
3. Camp Chef Redwood Propane Gas Pit
This Redwood model is slightly bigger and heavier than the Compact one. However, you will get all the additional benefits with this bigger pit. Of course, the price is slightly higher than the compact, but it’s worth the money.
Getting 12 to 14-inches high flame at 55,000 BTU setting is one of the biggest advantages of this 19-inches diameter pit. The height of the pit makes it safe to use on almost any surface. However, it is always recommended to keep it on concrete, ground, or stone.
This Redwood gas pit is one of the safest among the best portable propane fire pits. Your pets and kids will be safe from the fire because of the safety ring. Moreover, the safety shut-off valve keeps the part free of any fire hazard.
You can use a grill or grate to warm up bacon or fry eggs for camp breakfast, along with the roasting stick. No matter where you go, the carry bag will always keep this compact pit safe.
Keep an additional gas tank handy for this 19-inches diameter pit.
- Compact and portable
- Great for almost any surface
- Economic in gas use
- 12 to 14-inches high flame on high setting
- Easy to assemble and use
- The amount of lava rock is not adequate
- It only runs well on high settings
4. Camco Portable Tabletop Propane Fire Pit for Camping, Tailgating, and Patios
Little Red Campfire is one of the smallest and lightest propane fire pits in the market. But don’t underestimate its heating capacity. With a 65,000 BTU heat output rating, it can compete with the bigger players in its field.
You will find the 11-inches diameter pit a bit too small. But when it’s only you and your significant one in the backyard enjoying the vibe, nothing can beat this little master. And you will be safe and hassle-free due to the additional base plate.
Refilling the small red tank may seem like an extra chore, but it is helpful when you are going out for a short interval. Other than the string hissing noise (it may be due to leakage), there is nothing problematic about this little propane gas fire pit.
- Compact size and design
- Lightweight
- It comes with a built-in propane tank
- Powerful flame than any dry wood pit
- Makes loud hissing while in action
- Too small even for four people
5. Bali Outdoors Rectangular 42-inch Propane Gas FirePit
Sometimes both your extended family and colleagues show up together, and you feel the need for a big fire pit for great outdoor fun. Well, this Bali Outdoor 42-inch large fire pit is the right option for such a situation. A super wider diameter and copper bowl generate enough heat to make all happy.
Having 60,000 BTU, Bali 42-inch outdoor is considered the highest BTU Portable Propane Fire Pit. So, you can expect a quicker and warmer fire for the ambiance, roasting, grilling, and many more. The copper bowl keeps the heat much longer for speedier cooking. Moreover, it will also prevent any spill.
You may have to get the roasting rods or grilled separately, but the covering case comes with the pit to keep it safe for any outdoor use. Keep the ignitor clean and dry if you want to use it for a long time. Despite the higher clearance, the weight of the pit makes it challenging to put it on any flimsy surface.
- High BTU ratings
- More ground clearance
- Super wide diameter (24-inches)
- Hassell free instant heat
- Great for a bigger party and travels
- Heavyweight
- Piezo ignitor goes bad quickly
Choosing the Best Portable Propane Fire Pit for You
Style
Fire pits are more like a style statement rather than a utility tool. It is not your regular grill for making the juiciest stakes or patty. Propane gas pits create an atmosphere for making outdoor time memorable.
Style-wise you can get three types of propane pits. They are portable, copper bowl, and table. The portable ones are compact and easy to carry. You can use them in almost any condition and for any outdoor purpose.
Copper bowl pits are, on the contrary, are the fanciest option. As copper has a very high melting point so this style is more durable than the rest.
Table pits have a table-like appearance that has a pit in the middle. Your kids and pets will be safe as the larger ledge will keep them away from the main heat source. I like it more than the rest of the design for space and convenience.
Enjoying the outdoors with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate is easier with this table style.
Features
The most important safety feature of any best portable propane fire pit is the control knob. Wondering why? Well, this simple gadget makes it safer and more convenient than any open fire pit.
Typically, propane gas pits come with a control knob that is connected with a gas pipe. You will get a diverse range of gas pipe lengths from a few to 20-feet. This hose will connect the burner with the propane tank.
The durability of this pipe also influences the safety of the fire pit. Make sure the connectors on both sides of the tube are intact and made with solid metal. If the hose is too soft or too hard to bend, you may need to look for an alternative.
Burner underneath the artificial rocks is essential to give you the desired ambiance and heat. High radius burners will generate more heat than the smaller ones. Cast iron burners are inexpensive, but copper ones are durable. It’s up to your budget which one to pick.
All the propane fire pits reviewed here come with extendable roasting sticks. No, they are not fit for grilling steak but will roast marshmallows or hotdogs with perfection. If you want to roast yellow corn, go for it.
Cost
Lager portable fire pits will cost more than the smaller ones, and it’s obvious. However, portable pits will be way less expensive than copper bowls and table pits.
If you are looking for a budget pit for outdoor and backyards, portable gas pits are the ideal propane pits with more features like the cover, extra artificial rocks, extra knobs, stand, roasting stick covers, and many more.
On the other hand, if you have a limited budget, the basic pits with regular features will be perfect.
Weight & Size
On the other hand, the size of the best portable propane fire pit depends on the pit diameter and burner ring. You can get a wide range from 6 to 24-inches diameter pits. Bigger diameters will have more BTU ratings and consume more gas. So, you have to keep additional propane gas cylinders handy with the bigger size pits.
Bigger pits typically have more weight than smaller ones. Most of the propane pits in this review have around 18-inches in diameter and weight range from 20 to 25-lbs. Obviously, if you are looking for a bigger pit, it will be heavy, and you may face a bit of an obstacle to carry it.
Smaller pits will be super handy, of course, but they won’t be that compatible for an outdoor bonfire or backyard roasting part.
The Advantages of Portable Propane Fire Pits
Clean and Non-Messy Campfire
As we said earlier, ashes and smoke can ruin any outdoor fun in a jiffy. It will make you feel awful with breathing issues, burning nostrils, and many more.
And don’t forget about the dumping problem. Either you have to clean the whole pit and dump the ashes or look for a trash can away from the camping spot. None of them will do any help to conclude your camping with fun.
Portable propane gas pits do not create any smoke and ashes like wood fires. So, there is no mess and messy feeling inside the nostrils and eyes. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about dumping or recycling the ashes.
Now any campfire will be full of fun without any hassles.
Easy to Carry
Have you noticed the word “portable” throughout the reviews? Well, this is the second-best advantage of propane gas pits. You can carry them almost anywhere, and some of the reviewed models will perfectly fit on a tabletop.
Portable propane pits are ultra-lightweight. Besides, their dimension is compact that complements the weight. As a result, you can carry it with you, even on a trekking or hiking adventure.
When you are using these pits in the backyard, simply take them out from the garage and light them on. They will fit nicely and safely on your backyard table.
No Worry about the Campfire Ban
Some camping grounds do not allow open fire as they can create a fire. Moreover, sparks from the open pit can initiate forest fire, especially during the dry seasons. So, you may face an open-pit ban right after reaching the campsite.
However, there will be no problem as long as you have the best portable propane fire pit. They are safe, smokeless, spark-free, and easy to keep away from any accidental fire.
We would recommend checking the campsite regulations before your next outdoor trip. If you see any ban there, get one model from the review and have fun.
Easy to Cook/Roast
Controlling the heat is easy with a propane fire pit. Simply twist the knob and get your desired flame or heat. And you know very well how difficult it is with an open pit. Before you can do anything, the hotdogs will get super dry.
You can cook or roast marshmallows, hotdogs, or any small item on a propane pit while enjoying the heat and flame. As the heat is under your control, so will the cooking.
It’s Complete for the Party
Propane pits do not come alone. You will get the complete party pack with it. Well, it does not include caps or whistles but consists of a heat control knob, carry-bag, roasting stick, artificial lava rocks, and many more.
Once you get a great propane fire pit, you don’t need anything for an outdoor party except your family or friends.
FAQs
Can You Leave a Propane Fire Pit Outside?
Yes, you can leave a propane fire pit outside, but you shouldn’t. Propane gas fire pits are made for outdoor use, and you will get the best result while using them outdoors. However, those pits need some care and maintenance too.
If you leave them outside and are exposed to heat and humidity, the first damage you will see is rusting. Typically, gas fire pits are made with mild steel and are vulnerable to rusting. Heat will discolor the outer coating and make it sensitive to humidity and fire.
So, if you ask for a professional recommendation, we would suggest storing the fire pit inside the dedicated bag in a dry place.
How Long Does a 15 lb Propane Tank Last on a Fire Pit?
It depends on the BTU per hour ratings of the fire pit. The rule of thumb says, “higher BTU will reduce the lasting time.” All the five propane fire pits in this review are between 55,000 to 65,000 BTU/hour ratings.
In this BTU range, a 15-lbs propane gas tank will last around 9 hours. As we said earlier, the 65,000 BTU pit will take less than 9 hours to go out of gas than the 55,000 BTU one.
Are Propane Fire Pits Worth It?
If you compare the price with benefits and features, propane fire pits are a worthy investment. First and foremost, they are safe both in the wild and in the backyard. There will be o irritating ashes or smokes to ruin the fun.
Next, you are in control of the heat and flame. Keep the flame low when you just want to have an ambiance and raise it higher for a party and roasting. This control also adds extra safety when you are outside.
Compact design and lightweight make it easy to carry almost anywhere. Gone those days of digging a fire pit in the sand or soil, putting the hotdogs inside the aluminum foil, and waiting forever. It’s all about a fast and effective solution now.
How Long Does a Propane Fire Pit Last?
It depends on the capacity of the propane gas tank. Generally, a 15-lbs gas cylinder is used with propane gas fire pits. These cylinders will last up to 9-hours with an average 55,000 BTU rating pit.
However, if the radius of the pit increases, the lasting time will vary. According to the pro grillers and pit masters, you better keep an extra tank handy for higher BTU and larger diameter pits. l
Are Outdoor Propane Fire Pits Safe?
Yes, outdoor propane fire pits are completely safe to use either in the wild or in your backyard. They won’t create any spark, ashes, or smoke to turn things other ways like traditional wood pits during a party.
There are some proven tips that will help you to keep any outdoor fire safe using propane gas pits.
• Place the fire fit at least 10-feet away from your home and neighbor’s fence
• Make sure there is no overhanging branches or structure that can catch fire from the high flame
• Keep it on gravel, stone, or concrete surface
• Inspect for any issues before or after each use
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy
• If someone is not there with the pit, it’s better to turn it off
• Children and pets shouldn’t be around the pit
• Turn off the gas when you are not using it
• Too windy weather is not an excellent thing for lighting a fire pit
Do Propane Fire Pits Keep You Warm?
If you are looking for something to keep you warm during winter, a propane fire pit is not the thing. Yes, it comes with a considerable amount of heat generation capacity, but not adequate to keep you warm.
The typical thermal BTU rating of the propane fire pit is between 55,000 to 65,000. They are suitable for the ambiance and keep the surrounding a bit warm. But don’t expect too much from these open pits.
The size of the pit, fuel, and above all, the outdoor environment plays a vital role in heat generation. A bigger-sized pit with wood in a covered area will create more heat than a smaller pit run on propane/natural gas.
Final Words
Propane gas pits can be a great source of fun and memorable moments if you can pick the right one for your backyard or camping trips. We know it’s not easy to select the right one, but the task is easy now. You have all the tips and tricks on your sleeve.
Go over the review again if you really need it and get the best portable propane fire pit for your backyard. We can assure you the highest quality and outcome no matter which one you select for the next authentic campfire experience.
