California’s diverse climate and landscapes—from snowy mountains to coastal regions—mean firewood needs vary. Whether you’re heating your home in the Sierra Nevada, enjoying a backyard fire in the Bay Area, or camping in the desert, choosing the right firewood ensures warmth and efficiency. California’s mix of hardwoods and softwoods provides plenty of options to suit your needs.
Top Firewood Picks in California
1. Oak
Oak is a top choice for Californians, especially in cooler mountain regions. It’s dense, burns hot, and produces excellent coals. White oak and black oak are the most common varieties.
- Why it’s great: High heat output, long-lasting, and efficient.
- BTU Rating: 24-26 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Northern and central California’s forests, including the Sierra Nevada.
2. Almond
Almond wood is abundant in California, thanks to its thriving almond industry. It burns clean, hot, and produces a sweet aroma, making it great for both heating and cooking.
- Why it’s great: High heat and pleasant scent.
- BTU Rating: 21-22 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Central Valley and areas with almond orchards.
3. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a widely available hardwood in California. It burns hot and long but can be tricky to split and requires thorough seasoning.
- Why it’s great: High heat and long burn time.
- BTU Rating: 28-30 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Coastal and southern California regions.
4. Pine (Ponderosa and Sugar Pine)
Pine is plentiful in California’s mountainous regions and is great for outdoor fires or kindling. It burns quickly and produces a bright flame.
- Why it’s great: Affordable, easy to ignite, and readily available.
- BTU Rating: 14-17 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Sierra Nevada and other mountainous areas.
5. Walnut
Walnut is another agricultural byproduct in California, offering excellent heat and a mild, pleasant aroma. It’s a popular choice for fireplaces and wood stoves.
- Why it’s great: Burns hot and clean; great for indoor use.
- BTU Rating: 22-25 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Central Valley and areas with walnut orchards.
Firewood Regulations in California
1. Cutting Firewood
- Permits: Cutting firewood on public lands, including national forests, requires a permit. These are available from the U.S. Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
- Allowed Trees: Most permits allow cutting dead or downed trees only.
2. Transporting Firewood
- Pest Concerns: California has strict regulations to prevent the spread of invasive pests like the goldspotted oak borer and sudden oak death.
- Rule: Use only local firewood. Avoid moving firewood across county lines or from quarantine zones.
3. Burning Restrictions
- Air Quality: California’s air quality laws are some of the strictest in the nation. Many areas have no-burn days during winter months to reduce air pollution.
- Check Before You Burn: Use tools like the Air Quality Index (AQI) or contact local air districts for updates.
Firewood Costs in California
- Hardwoods: Almond, oak, and eucalyptus cost $300-$450 per cord, depending on location and whether it’s seasoned.
- Softwoods: Pine and similar woods are cheaper, averaging $150-$200 per cord.
- Delivery Fees: In urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco, delivery can add $50-$100 to your total.
Firewood Storage Tips for California
- Seasoning: Due to California’s dry summers, firewood can season in as little as 6-9 months. Stack it off the ground and allow plenty of airflow.
- Protection: Use a tarp or wood shed to protect from winter rain, especially in coastal or northern regions.
- Pest Prevention: Keep firewood stacks away from your home to avoid termites and other insects.
Fire Safety Tips
- Use a spark screen for outdoor fires, especially during California’s dry season.
- Never burn treated or painted wood—it releases harmful chemicals.
- Regularly clean chimneys and flues to prevent creosote buildup.
California’s varied climates offer plenty of firewood options, from dense hardwoods like oak and almond to versatile choices like walnut and pine. Whether you’re heating your home, cooking, or enjoying a firepit, choosing seasoned, locally sourced firewood ensures efficiency and safety. Follow state regulations and storage best practices to make the most of your firewood.