Living in an RV often means embracing simplicity and making smart choices about the resources you carry. When it comes to firewood, your options must balance space, efficiency, and versatility. Whether you’re fueling a small wood stove, enjoying a firepit at your campsite, or both, choosing the right firewood can make your RV experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know about selecting firewood for RV living.
Key Considerations for RV Firewood
1. Portability and Storage
Space is at a premium in an RV, so your firewood needs to be compact and easy to store.
- Pre-Split Logs: Opt for smaller, pre-split pieces that fit easily into storage bins or racks.
- Bundle Size: Purchase firewood in manageable bundles that won’t overcrowd your RV’s limited storage space.
- Storage Solutions: Use firewood bags or crates to keep your logs neat, dry, and protected from pests.
2. Multi-Purpose Use
Firewood for RV living should be versatile enough to meet different needs. Whether you’re heating your RV, cooking outdoors, or just enjoying a campfire, the wood should perform well in multiple scenarios.
- Hardwoods like Oak and Maple: Great for steady heat and long burns, perfect for heating and campfire use.
- Softwoods like Pine: Excellent for quick-starting fires or kindling but less efficient for prolonged heating.
3. Availability
Since RV living often involves traveling, your firewood options will vary depending on your location.
- Buy Locally: Purchase firewood near your campsite to reduce the risk of spreading pests or diseases.
- Free or Found Wood: Check with local campgrounds or forestry services for free firewood or permits to collect deadfall in designated areas.
Best Firewood for RV Heating
Hardwoods for Efficiency
For RV wood stoves or long-burning campfires, hardwoods like oak, hickory, or ash are ideal. They produce more heat and burn longer than softwoods, making them efficient for smaller stoves and extended heating sessions.
Softwoods for Convenience
Softwoods like pine or fir are lightweight, making them easier to carry and store in an RV. They ignite quickly, making them great for starting fires, but they burn faster and produce less heat overall.
Firewood for Campfires and Outdoor Cooking
Fruitwoods for Flavor
If you’re cooking over your fire, consider fruitwoods like apple or cherry for a pleasant, sweet aroma that enhances food flavor.
Blends for Versatility
Use a mix of hardwoods and softwoods for campfires. Start with softwood for easy ignition, then add hardwoods to maintain heat and extend the burn time.
Firewood Storage Tips for RV Living
Proper storage is critical to keeping your firewood usable and your RV pest-free.
- Keep It Dry: Store wood in a covered, weatherproof bin or firewood bag to prevent moisture buildup.
- Inspect for Pests: Always check wood for insects or mold before bringing it into your RV.
- Rotate Stock: Use older wood first to avoid letting it degrade in storage.
- Separate Indoor and Outdoor Supplies: Keep a day’s worth of wood accessible inside the RV while storing the bulk supply outside to save space and reduce mess.
Eco-Friendly Firewood Options
If you’re looking to minimize environmental impact, consider these alternatives:
- Compressed Wood Logs: Compact, clean-burning logs made from recycled sawdust and shavings. Easy to store and lightweight.
- Bio-Bricks or Wood Pellets: Great for RVs with pellet stoves; they burn efficiently and take up less space than traditional logs.
Rules and Regulations for Firewood in RV Parks
Many RV parks and campgrounds have specific rules about firewood to prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases.
- Avoid Bringing Firewood Across State Lines: Transporting firewood can introduce pests to new areas.
- Use Approved Firewood: Look for certified, pest-free firewood available near your destination.
The Bottom Line
For RV living, firewood should be compact, versatile, and efficient. Hardwoods like oak and hickory provide steady heat for heating and cooking, while softwoods offer quick-starting convenience. Storing your wood properly and sourcing it locally ensures you’re always prepared for cozy campfires, warm nights, and outdoor adventures.