Campfire vs Bonfire: What’s the Real Difference?


Campfire vs Bonfire what's the difference

The terms “campfire” and “bonfire” are often used interchangeably, and if you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered if there are any real differences between the two.

Well, I’ve got news for you: they are NOT the same.

So what’s the actual difference between a campfire and a bonfire?

The primary difference between a campfire and a bonfire, are their size and function. A campfire is a small fire (typically contained within a fire pit) that is used for cooking, heating, and entertainment. A bonfire is a much larger fire that is used for events or celebrations.

This is the high-level distinction, however, it’s helpful to dig into 3 areas that further separate campfires from bonfires. Specifically:

  • What are they used for?
  • What do they symbolize?
  • How do you build one?

Let’s start with campfires, then we’ll switch to bonfires below.

What is a Campfire?

What is a campfire and what does it symbolize

1. What are Campfires Used For?

If fire is mankind’s earliest discovery, then campfires are the original application of that discovery for practical uses.

Campfires are used for a wide variety of functions. They can be used to cook, provide warmth, protect against wild animals, repel mosquitos and other insects, and simply create a pleasant environment.

The earliest known controlled campfire was discovered in South Africa, and it’s estimated to date 1.6 million years ago. Today, campfires are still very relevant and are a great source of heat, entertainment, and comfort.

2. What Does a Campfire Symbolize?

Generally speaking, campfires are seen as a relatively practical container for a fire. On the other hand, bonfires tend to have stronger associations with symbolism and tradition.

However, in general, fire is associated with a wide range of human traditions, ideas, philosophies, and religions.

Some of the best-known symbolisms of fire are destruction and Hell. However, fire is also associated with the ideas of purity and renewal.

3. How Do You Build a Campfire?

There are a variety of methods for starting a campfire. The 3 most common methods are using a teepee, log cabin, or lean-to structure.

All three of these methods for starting a campfire, require 4 basic materials:

  • Matches and fire starters
  • Tinder
  • Kindling
  • Firewood (also called fuelwood)

Tinder is the material that is used to catch the initial flame from your match (or lighter, etc.). For example, paper, sawdust, very small sticks or twigs, and even firestarters would all be considered types of tinder.

Kindling is larger sticks or small strips of firewood, which basically acts as a transition from tinder to full firewood. If you can get your kindling burning well, then you’ve got a really good shot at a full-grown fire.

Lastly is the firewood, which is the real fuel which will keep your fire going after it grows past the initial “starting” phase.

If you want to learn to build a campfire, you can get step by step instructions for building each of the following styles of campfire below (Note: my personal favorite is the lean-to method):

What is a bonfire?

What is a bonfire and what does it symbolize

1. What are Bonfires Used For?

Alright, now we turn the tables and look at bonfires. A bonfire is generally used as part of an event of some kind, like a party, celebration, or festival. It is more symbolic, and less practically useful compared with a campfire.

Practically speaking, a bonfire is just a campfire that has been built up into a much larger fire. Bonfires produce a lot of heat, and they are controlled fires (like campfires) but they are much more difficult to contain.

2. What Does a Bonfire Symbolize?

The word bonfire actually comes from the words “bone” and “fire”, and the term is believed to have originated from festivals held by Celts, in which they burned piles of bones to ward off evil spirits.

Depending on the culture and area you are in, bonfires might be used on different occasions. In some cases, it is associated with a specific holiday (similar to fireworks being associated with Independence Day in the USA).

In other cases, bonfires may be seen as having spiritual significance, or they may simply be used as a centerpiece for parties.

3. How Do You Build a Bonfire?

You can start a bonfire using the same methods we mentioned above for starting a campfire. However, there are some additional things you will need to consider for a bonfire.

For example, when you build the foundation for your bonfire, you need to find a larger burn area (it won’t fit in most fire pits or fire circles). This means you will need to be careful to select a safe location that will not create fire hazards for nearby buildings, property, or forestland.

In addition, you will need a LOT more fuelwood. In order to build a bonfire sized flame, you have to really feed the fire generously. This can be normal firewood, logs, or other fuelwoods.

Related Questions

How Hot is a Campfire?

A campfire that is stocked well with fuelwood, will burn at about 2,012 degrees farenheit (1100 degrees celcius). This is hot enough to melt-down some types of metal, including aluminum. Within a given fire, blue flames are much hotter than orange flames, and orange flames are hotter than red.

What is the Best Type of Firewood?

The best type of firewood for heating a home with a wood stove, is Black Locust or Hickory, due to the high heat output and long-lasting coals. For outdoor campfires, Pine or Cedar are better because they produce a beautiful fire with a pleasant aroma that doesn’t burn too long.

What is a Rick of Wood?

A rick of wood is an informal measure of firewood, and it’s typically 1/3 the size of a cord. A typical rick would be a stack of wood measuring 4 ft. X 8 ft. X 16 in., with a volume of roughly 43 cubic feet. The exact size does vary though because it’s a general term.

JJ

JJ is a firewood enthusiast, an Eagle Scout, and an avid learner and teacher of outdoor skills.

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