Outdoor Wood Burning Fireplaces

Jump To Our Picks

During the winter months, if you don't want to be cooped up inside all the time but also don't want to be cold, consider getting yourself one of our extensive collection of outdoor wood burning fireplaces. They are quite fetching and the perfect outdoor peace to add a little bit of romance to your backyard. And they come in many styles. See collection for more.

Tara Gosselin Interior Design Expert

Tara is a San Antonio-based award-winning landscape architect, writer and educator, passionate about eco-friendly solutions and growing her own food. She knows all it takes to help you create a sustainable backyard retreat that combines blissful charm with a modern take on landscaping.

10 Recommendations and 143 Ideas

Updated 08/04/2021

Buying Guide

Do outdoor fireplaces give off heat?

Yes, outdoor wood burning fireplaces definitely give off heat! While this changes a lot depending on several factors such as type of model and location, outdoor wood burning fireplaces usually range between 30,000 and 100,000 BTUs.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that you can stay in your garden 24/7 without getting cold, but they’ll certainly make an afternoon or evening gathering a lot cozier.

How far does an outdoor fireplace need to be from the house?

An outdoor fireplace generally needs to be placed 10’ to 20’ away from the house. This is the recommended minimum distance from any structure or flammable material and the accepted practice for all fuel types, including outdoor wood burning fireplaces.

Ultimately, an outdoor fireplace needs to be as far away from the house as local regulations and fire codes require. Contact your local government for the specific burning rules in your region. Laws differ between jurisdictions, so confirming the guidelines where you live prevents you from getting fined.

Another factor to consider is your homeowner’s insurance policy. Check if there are requirements or recommendations for how far away your outdoor fireplace needs to be from the structure. While the recommended minimum distance should be adequate, checking guidelines ensures you’re not denied coverage if a fire spreads to your home.

If an awning or porch extends from your house, consider this when measuring distance for your outdoor fireplace as well.

What is the best wood for outdoor fireplaces?

Choosing the right type of wood for your outdoor fireplace is essential as different types of wood give off varying levels of smoke and heat. Most people shop for economically priced firewood, and often the cheapest types of wood get scooped up first.

However, certain types of wood and, in some cases, the cheap kind is not available in some areas, so we recommend that you keep an eye out for the following types of wood. They are cost-effect and readily available in almost all areas.

Ashwood is great for maximum heat with low levels of smoke and an aroma that is tolerable. Pine doesn't provide as much heat as ash and gives off medium smoke levels, so it is a reasonable option if ash is not available.

Oak and elm are also popular choices for outdoor firewood, but the best recommendation is maple. Not only does it produce high heat like ash, but it also gives off low smoke levels and has a pleasant aroma.