23 Fire Pit Ideas For Your Backyard That Will Transform Your Outdoor Space
A backyard fire pit has always been one of the first things we set up in every home we’ve lived in.
No matter the size of the yard, we’ve found a way to carve out a cozy spot—sometimes starting with easy fire pit ideas for the backyard, other times building out larger backyard fire pit areas that became the heart of the space.
It’s where family gatherings happen, friends linger a little longer, and quiet nights turn into hours around the fire.
With the right fire pit landscaping ideas, whether that’s rock fire pit designs, fire pit landscaping pavers, or a simple setup tucked near a patio or gazebo, a fire pit transforms your yard into a welcoming outdoor retreat you’ll actually use.
Fire pits come in tons of styles—from basic DIY stone circles to sleek propane tables with glass wind guards. You’ll find portable options to move around or permanent setups with built-in seating and storage.
Some designs fill big outdoor areas, while others fit snugly into small spaces using landscape fire pit tricks with pavers and rocks.
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1. DIY Stone Fire Pit Circle
Building a simple stone fire pit is easier than you’d think. Dig a circular hole about three feet wide and six inches deep.
Place large stones or fire bricks around the edge to make a ring. Natural fieldstones look great and hold up well.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy out fire pit is by having an oyster roast night with friends. We like doing it when it’s not too cold, but cold enough to want to be around a fire.
Fill the bottom with sand or gravel to help with drainage. That way, water won’t pool inside after it rains.
If you want higher walls, stack a second layer of stones. Leave some gaps for airflow so your fire breathes.
2. Reclaimed Brick Fire Pit
There’s something special about using old bricks from torn-down buildings. These bricks bring character and history that new ones just don’t have.
Dig a shallow circle in your yard. Stack the reclaimed bricks in a ring, leaving little air gaps—no mortar needed for a basic setup.
Reclaimed bricks usually cost less and help the environment. You’re giving old materials a new life instead of sending them to a landfill.
3. Charming Chiminea Stand
Chimineas bring a little Old World magic to your backyard. These clay or metal fire pots stand tall on their own legs.
Jena built these chairs and tables for our bestie’s birthday. Adding the chiminea to the set up was perfect for us.
You can set one up on any flat surface—the raised design keeps the fire off the ground, making it safer than a regular fire pit.
Chimineas work especially well on patios or wood decks. Their enclosed shape keeps sparks contained, and they come in all sorts of colors and styles.
4. Portable Propane Fire Table
A portable propane fire table adds warmth and style wherever you want it. Move it around your yard, or take it camping if you’re feeling adventurous.
These tables use small propane tanks and light up with just a button—no wood, no matches. Most have flat surfaces around the flame, so you can set down your drink and snacks while you hang out.
5. Sunken Fire Pit Lounge
A sunken fire pit creates a cozy gathering spot that feels a little bit like a secret lounge. Dig down about 2-3 feet to shape a circular area.
Build stone or brick walls around the edge. Add built-in seating with cushions for extra comfort.
This setup feels private and intimate, and the lower level blocks wind, keeping everyone warmer. Guests tend to love sitting around a sunken fire—it’s just cool.
6. Gabion Wire Fire Feature
Gabion baskets are metal mesh containers filled with stones. You can use them to create a modern fire pit that looks both industrial and stylish.
Fill the wire cages with your favorite rocks or gravel, leaving space in the center for your fire bowl or burner.
This design stores heat and releases it slowly after the fire goes out. You can stack gabion baskets to play with different heights and shapes.
7. Concrete Block Fire Ring
Pick up some concrete blocks from the hardware store and stack them in a circle. That’s your fire ring—simple as that.
Concrete blocks handle heat without cracking, and you don’t need mortar. Make the ring about 3-4 feet wide for a comfortable size.
Leave little gaps between some blocks for airflow. Your fire will burn hotter and cleaner that way.
8. Fire Pit with Benches
Build benches right around your fire pit and you’ll always have a place to sit. It saves space and looks tidy.
Stone or brick benches blend in with most fire pit styles. You can also use wooden benches, just keep them a safe distance from the flames.
Built-in benches mean you don’t have to drag out chairs every time. Aim for seats about 16 to 18 inches tall—most people find that comfortable.
9. Outdoor Fire Pit Pizza Oven
Combine a fire pit with a pizza oven and you’ve got double the fun. You can cook pizzas and roast food while staying warm by the fire.
Build a dome-shaped oven right next to your fire pit. Fire bricks hold heat best, so use those if you can.
The pizza oven gets super hot—your pizzas will cook in just a few minutes. Bake bread, roast veggies, or cook meat in there too.
10. Copper Fire Bowl Centerpiece
A copper fire bowl makes a stunning centerpiece for your backyard. That warm metal glow works in almost any setting.
You can put it on a patio table or create a special spot around it. Over time, copper develops a patina that just adds more charm.
These bowls are perfect for small gatherings—think four to six people sitting close by. Use wood or gel fuel, depending on your bowl.
11. Rustic Steel Fire Ring
We got this one a few years ago before we created out fire pit with river rock. It was shallow, but great to move wherever we needed it.
A steel fire ring gives your backyard a classic, no-nonsense look. They come in lots of sizes, so it’s easy to find one that fits.
Steel handles heat like a champ and won’t crack. Set one up almost anywhere—just clear away grass and place it on dirt or gravel.
Many steel rings include cooking grates, so you can grill right over the fire if you want.
12. Modern Fire Pit Table with Glass Wind Guard
A fire pit table with a glass wind guard gives you a handy table and a protected flame in one. The glass keeps wind from blowing out your fire, so you can enjoy it even on breezy nights.
Most of these tables run on propane or natural gas. You just twist a knob or flip a switch to adjust the flame—super easy.
13. Fire Pit with Built-in Seating
A fire pit with built-in seating creates a cozy gathering spot in your backyard.
You can build curved stone or brick walls around the fire pit that double as benches. This design saves space and keeps things looking neat.
The seating stays put, so you won’t have to drag chairs around. Add some cushions on top for a bit more comfort.
Built-in seating is perfect if your yard’s on the smaller side and you want to use every bit of space.
14. Stacked Slate Fire Pit
You can easily make a beautiful fire pit using stacked slate stones. This design gives your backyard a more natural look.
Just stack the flat slate stones in a circle—no mortar needed. The shape keeps them stable and solid.
Pick pieces that are about the same size. That way, stacking goes a lot smoother.
The gray color of slate fits in with most outdoor furniture. Slate handles heat well and will last for years.
15. Hexagonal Wooden Fire Pit Surround
A hexagonal wooden surround adds some shape and style to your fire pit area. Build this six-sided frame with cedar or treated lumber.
The design naturally creates seating spots on each side. It’s great for groups or family get-togethers.
You’ll need a few woodworking tools and some basic skills. Most folks can finish it in a weekend if they plan ahead.
16. Fire Pit with Fire Glass Crystals
Fire glass crystals make your fire pit look modern and clean. These colorful glass pieces sit on top of your gas burner instead of logs.
You can pick from colors like blue, green, or clear. The crystals really catch the light when the flames flicker over them.
Fire glass doesn’t burn or melt. It stays looking new for years and barely needs any care.
17. Fire Pit with Log Storage
Keep your firewood close with a fire pit that has built-in storage. These usually have a shelf or compartment under the fire bowl.
Metal fire pits work especially well for this style. You can find ones with bottom shelves or storage on the sides.
The storage keeps your logs dry and within arm’s reach. No more running back and forth for more wood.
18. Fire Pit with Natural Boulder Seating
Natural boulders make awesome seats around your fire pit. You can find big rocks at landscaping supply stores or quarries.
Pick flat-topped boulders that are comfy to sit on. Aim for about 18 inches high for the best seating height.
Arrange the rocks in a circle around your fire pit. Leave enough space for people to walk between the seats safely.
The boulders stay cool and give you sturdy seating for years to come.
19. Fire Pit Table with Marble Top
A marble top fire pit table adds a touch of elegance to your backyard. You get a fire feature and a dining surface all in one.
The marble stays cool away from the flames. It’s perfect for setting down drinks or snacks while you relax by the fire.
These tables are great for small spaces. You don’t need separate furniture for eating and relaxing.
Pick white or gray marble to match your style. It’s easy to clean and will last a long time.
20. Fire Pit Dome Cover
A dome cover protects your fire pit when you’re not using it. These covers fit over round fire pits like a helmet.
Metal dome covers last longer than fabric ones. They keep rain and snow out of your fire bowl, which helps prevent rust and damage.
You can find dome covers at home stores or online. Measure your fire pit before you buy—snug is best.
Some covers come with handles that make them easy to lift off.
21. Fire Pit with Wire Mesh Spark Guard
A wire mesh spark guard keeps flying embers under control. You can buy one that fits right over your fire pit.
The mesh lets you see the flames and feel the heat. Air flows through, so your fire burns well.
Most spark guards have handles, so you can move them easily. Add wood or shift logs without much hassle.
Wire mesh guards work best for wood-burning pits. They help protect your deck, furniture, and guests from hot sparks.
22. Outdoor Fire Pit Table
A fire pit table gives you warmth and a place to eat. It’s a solid pick for smaller backyards.
Our besties chose another seating area with this type of set up and it’s great to keep warm, but cozy enough for an intimate gathering.
23. Fire Pit with Mosaic Tile Inlay
Add a mosaic tile inlay to your fire pit if you want a splash of color. Blues, greens, and earthy tones all work well, depending on your vibe.
Try installing the tiles around the rim or along the inside walls. Just make sure you pick heat-resistant tiles—regular ones might crack, which would be a hassle.
Play around with patterns using different colored tiles. If you’re new to this, simple designs are way easier to manage.
The tiles catch the firelight and sparkle at night. Honestly, it’s a pretty amazing focal point when you’re hanging out in your backyard.
