Campfire’s Out — Now What?
How to have a cozy, screen-free night under the stars (no flames required)
We get it — there’s nothing like gathering around a campfire. The crackle, the glow, the marshmallow math of just one more. But with wildfire risk climbing and campfire bans in effect across many public lands, it’s time for a new kind of nighttime magic.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to stay warm, connected, and enchanted after dark — without lighting a single match.
Why the Ban?
Before we get into the fun stuff, a quick reality check: fire bans are about protecting land, wildlife, and people. Hotter, drier seasons are turning campfires into serious risks, even in places that didn’t used to worry about it.
Most fire bans apply to wood and charcoal fires, but may also restrict things like tiki torches, fireworks, or even some stoves — especially during red flag conditions. Always check with the local ranger district or site manager before you head out. The best source? The National Interagency Fire Center or your nearest BLM or Forest Service office.
Okay, PSA over. Now let’s get to the fire-free fun.
1. Bring the Glow, Not the Flame
Who needs firelight when you’ve got string lights, headlamps, and solar lanterns? Bonus points for:
•Color-changing LEDs to set the mood
•Rechargeable “flame” candles for ambiance
•Reusable glow sticks for kids or kids-at-heart (yes, reusable ones are available now)
Pack a cozy blanket and a warm drink, and suddenly you’re not missing that campfire at all.
2. Game On
Board games and card decks were made for nights like this. Some trail-tested classics:
•UNO or Exploding Kittens (easy to play by headlamp)
•Hive Pocket – an insect-themed strategy game that’s small and waterproof
•Story Cubes – spark imaginative campfire-style storytelling without the actual fire
Want something even more analog? Try a round of “Would You Rather,” 20 Questions, or classic ghost stories — made spookier by the surrounding dark.
3. Sky’s the Limit
Without firelight competing for your attention, the stars take center stage.
•Download a free stargazing app like SkyView or Star Walk 2 before you lose service.
•Learn to spot constellations, satellites, or meteor showers (check the International Meteor Organization for dates).
•If you’ve got binoculars, turn them skyward — you’ll be amazed at what you can see.
Some of the best public lands for stargazing? Great Basin National Park, Big Bend, and certified International Dark Sky Parks.
4. Camp Kitchen After Dark
Just because there’s no fire doesn’t mean you can’t get a little culinary. Try:
•A no-burn s’mores bar with marshmallow fluff or chocolate-dipped graham crackers
•Camp cocktails or mocktails — pre-batched and poured into enamel mugs
•Nighttime snacks like popcorn (popped beforehand), trail mix, or hot cocoa made on a safe camp stove
Fair warning: night raccoons may be invited if you leave snacks unattended.
5. Cozy Up for a Wind-Down Ritual
Make bedtime part of the fun:
•Bring a book or e-reader with a warm backlight
•Journal or sketch with a red-light headlamp (easier on your eyes and your tentmate’s)
•Try a short meditation or breathwork session before you hit the sleeping bag
For extra warmth, fill a hot water bottle using your stove and tuck it at the foot of your sleeping bag. Old-school, but it works.
Fire-Free Is the Future
We’re not saying you have to love fire bans. But adapting to them is part of being a good outdoor citizen. The upside? You get to try new ways of connecting with the wild — and maybe even sleep better without all that smoke in your hair.
