Backyard Fire Pit Ideas: 8 Unique Looks for You to Choose From

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There is something about the warmth and ambiance of a backyard fire that makes a get-together special. Whether it is just two people sharing a moment together, a group of family and friends, or a large party of guests, a fire can serve as the center of attention. Gathering around a fire can bring on conversations and also appetites. There is marshmallow roastings, s’more making, and hot dog cooking, which all spells fun when you have a fire. However, in order to have a fire, you will need a fire pit so that the fire stays where you intend it to stay. A gust of wind or a spark hitting in the wrong place can start a fire very quickly. I’m going to go over some backyard fire pit ideas that you may want to consider for your yard. Each one has its own unique features and when designed well, can be a focal point for your outdoor entertainment area. There are so many great backyard fire pit ideas to consider. So let’s get started.

Backyard Fire Pit Ideas

1. Fire Trough

A fire trough is usually a longer fire pit design. Most fire troughs are above ground and shaped like a rectangle. They can look very fancy if covered in stone or more casual if covered in wood. Of course, the design that you want to achieve is all up to you and your personal preference. Regardless of the look, however, people who throw large parties often like fire troughs. This is because several people can sit around it at once. Some fancy restaurants have fire troughs. They also make a nice addition to outdoor wedding events.

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2. Basic Brick Design

The basic brick design is usually a circular fire pit made out of brick. Some brick fire pits, however, are square shaped. Circular fire pits may be easier to gather around, but the shape is optional. Basic brick design fire pits are simple, yet pretty and can add a beautiful look to your outdoor space. This type of fire pit can look nice with matching brick flooring, but a lot of people choose to simply place it on gravel or grass.

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Image Source: The Family Handyman

3. Flagstone Fire Pit

Flagstone is a sedimentary rock, often used for walkways, patios, and fire pits. This type of fire pit can be very pretty and attractive, especially when it’s near a seating area or other outdoor space. Throw some Adirondack chairs nearby and you’ve got a fun, relaxing fire pit area. Some people choose to put their flagstone fire pit on flagstone pavers, but this is completely optional. 

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4. Fire Bowl

A fire bowl can give off a very warm and inviting look to any backyard. Some people like to build their own DIY fire bowls out of concrete or stone. There are also great places to purchase them if you’d rather go that route. Sometimes rocks are placed in the bowl to give it an even more beautiful, natural, and unique look. Fire bowls make for the perfect pit area and can look amazing on a patio surrounded by a lot of seating.

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Image Source: Eldorado Stone

5. Fire Pit Near the Pool

A poolside fire pit can be an incredible design element to add to your outdoor space. The elements of water and fire together look beautiful and can almost give off a spa-like feel. This kind of fire pit can be ideal for a pool party. It can be great fun when there is an open fire for cooking food. It also lets swimmers warm up after being in the pool, especially if they don’t feel like getting wet again by going in the hot tub.

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6. In-Ground Fire Pit

In-ground fire pits are fire pits that have the fire underground. There are many advantages to this kind of fire pit, especially for safety reasons. This fire pit keeps the flames from reaching high enough to catch on trees. Any burning embers that might fly out shouldn’t be able to reach high places that might catch on fire easily. The downside is that people, most likely children, and pets, may accidentally fall into the fire. If the fire is not noticeable, anyone is at risk to fall into it. Adult supervision is required whenever you are using your fire pit. If you are not using your fire pit, it is best to cover it up to prevent people from getting hurt.

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7. Cinder Block Fire Pit

A cinder block fire pit is a very inexpensive and easy fire pit option to build. If you’re looking for a great DIY project, this is the kind of fire pit you should consider. Basically, you build your pit from cinder blocks and mortar. You can make it in any shape and dimension that you would like. Some people only build it up one cinderblock high, while others like to build it up several cinder blocks high. The beauty of the cinder block concept is that you can design it in any way that you’d like.

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8. Tabletop Fire Pit

A tabletop fire pit is a very creative way to reuse what you already have. If you have an old outdoor patio table that you’re not planning to use, now you have a reason to rather than throwing it away. The nice thing about a tabletop fire pit is that it is multi-functional. Not only do you have a place to cook your food, but also an area to set things on before, during, and after cooking. Plan on making this DIY fire pit? Be sure that you’re aware of the proper ways to weld and work with propane. If you know this or know someone else who does, you’re all set!

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How Much These Backyard Fire Pit Ideas Typically Cost

The costs associated with an outdoor fire pit will greatly depend on what type of fire pit that you’d like to make. If you will be hiring a professional, you’ll have to figure in the costs of wages. However, if it’s a homemade fire pit, you will only be out the money for material and your time. Fire pits typically will cost from $100 to $1,000, depending on how elaborate you are going to get with the setup and pit design. In general, the bigger the pit, the more expensive it will be.

A basic cinder block fire pit may only cost approximately $100 if you only plan on a wood-burning pit. Any fire pit that is going to use propane or natural gas, however, will require a gas line to be installed to a fuel supply. You can plan on adding approximately $500 to $900 for a fuel line installation.

Summing Up – Backyard Fire Pit Ideas

Fire pits can add a new dimension to your backyard. Not only will a fire pit add warmth, but you can also cook anything from elaborate meals to simply toasting marshmallows. I’ve gone through several backyard fire pit ideas, which are: a fire trough, a basic brick design, a flagstone fire pit, a fire bowl, a fire pit near the pool, an in-ground fire pit, a cinder block fire pit, and a tabletop fire pit. Each type has it’s own unique look and can vary depending on the type of backyard landscaping design that you’re going for. For all of these types of fire pits, the design and size will be up to you.

I hope this has helped open up your eyes to the many different backyard fire pit ideas that are out there. Whether you want a portable fire pit, a built-in fire pit, or even just a nice seating area with a fireplace nearby, there are several ways you can make your yard look and feel special. Now, are you ready to make these easy backyard fire pit ideas a reality?

Related Article: Best Fire Pit – Our Top Choices and Overall Pick

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