Firewood Conundrum for the Traveler

April 13, 2025

Welcome to the Firewood Conundrum, where we unravel the mysteries of firewood for the modern traveler! At Learn to RV, we understand that hitting the open road in your RV is about more than just the journey; it’s also about creating those cozy moments around a crackling fire. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting out, we're here to help you navigate the dos and don'ts of firewood logistics, so you can focus on making unforgettable memories under the stars. Let's ignite that adventure together!

When it comes to firewood, the number one rule is to never carry it across state lines. This simple guideline helps protect our forests from invasive pests and diseases that can hitch a ride on your firewood. At Learn to RV, we want you to enjoy your adventures responsibly! By following this rule, you help preserve the natural beauty you love to explore while keeping your RV trips safe and enjoyable. So, remember: leave the firewood behind and pick some up locally! This also helps support the local community you are enjoying!

So what are some good options?

1) Buy the wood bundles from the camp store.

This is sometimes the most expensive option, you pay anywhere from $5-10 for a small bundle of wood that does burn quick. They don't often include any kind of kindling though I have seen some include it. This is usually the most convenient and quickest option.

2) Search out Craigslist before hand and find a seller.

This option can be hit or miss. A lot of these people only prepare their firewood for the winter as campers are not their primary customer. So you may contact a lot with little results that you want.

3) Drive the area looking for wood.

Again this can be hit or miss but if you are in a touristy area with lots of campgrounds you can usually find at least one if not 2 or 3 different places selling firewood on the honor system.

4) Check the local grocery stores and gas stations.

If there are campgrounds in the area then you can almost always find firewood at the local gas stations and grocery stores. Often times these are better prices then the campground but usually you have wood that will burn fast again and no kindling.

5) Check the local hardware stores.

I have often found a nice bundle of hardwood firewood at Home Depot before. You can also find these at Ace and other hardware stores.

When you're out enjoying the great outdoors with your RV and all else fails, sometimes the best option is to go without a fire this time. Opting to skip the campfire not only helps preserve the beauty of your surroundings but also ensures you avoid any potential issues that can arise from cutting down or gathering wood without permission. At Learn to RV, we believe in embracing nature responsibly—let's enjoy the peace and serenity the wilderness offers, all while respecting the environment!

What do you do? What recommendations do you have? If anyone is out there, please comment!

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