DIY Fire Pit Ideas for Off-Grid Properties
A fire pit is one of the easiest and most rewarding additions you can make to your off-grid property. Whether you’re camping, hosting guests, or just enjoying a quiet night under the stars, a fire pit adds comfort and utility to your outdoor space.
Here are practical, affordable DIY fire pit ideas that work great for rural Utah land—and a few tips to help you build one safely.
Why Add a Fire Pit to Your Off-Grid Property?
Creates a central gathering spot
Keeps you warm on cool desert nights
Ideal for cooking and campfire meals
Boosts your property's recreational use
Fire pits are also simple to install with minimal tools—and many can be built in a single afternoon.
1. Rock Ring Fire Pit (No Tools Needed)
This is the fastest and most rustic fire pit setup. Perfect for remote camping or short stays.
How to Build:
Gather stones or rocks from around your property
Clear a flat dirt area
Stack rocks in a circle at least 3 feet wide
Leave a small gap for airflow
Tip: Dig 2–3 inches down before placing rocks to contain embers better.
2. Steel Fire Ring Insert with Gravel Base
For a cleaner look and better safety, add a metal ring to your fire pit.
What You’ll Need:
Steel fire ring (can be bought at home improvement stores)
Shovel
Gravel or lava rock
How to Build:
Dig a 3–4 ft diameter circle, about 6–8 inches deep
Pour a few inches of gravel for drainage
Place fire ring in center
Surround with decorative rock or pavers
This setup helps prevent erosion and makes cleanup easier.
3. Cinder Block Fire Pit
Cinder blocks are inexpensive, easy to stack, and durable—great for semi-permanent setups.
Instructions:
Lay out a square or circle
Stack 2–3 layers high
Optionally fill gaps with sand or gravel
Make sure the blocks are fire-rated or stand up well to heat.
4. In-Ground Fire Pit with Cook Grate
Looking to cook over your fire? This design doubles as a grill.
Build Tips:
Dig a pit about 2 feet deep and 3 feet wide
Line the bottom with gravel
Use bricks or stones to line the interior walls
Add a metal grate or tripod grill
Cook directly over the flame or hang a Dutch oven for stews and chili.
5. Portable Fire Pit for Remote Use
If you’re camping on your land but not ready to build something permanent, a portable pit is a good option.
Ideas:
Use a repurposed metal barrel cut in half
Buy a collapsible campfire ring
Keep it on a cleared dirt patch away from brush
Great for seasonal access lots where you move gear in and out.
Fire Safety Tips for Utah Landowners
Fire danger is real in Utah—especially in dry areas like Duchesne County. Before building:
Check for local burn restrictions or permits
Always clear dry grass and brush within 10 feet
Keep water or a shovel nearby
Never leave fires unattended
Fully extinguish fires before leaving
Need a permit? Visit Utah Fire Info for rules by county.
Want More DIY Ideas?
From fencing tips to solar lights and outdoor storage hacks, there are plenty of easy upgrades you can make to rural land.