The use of campfires in the backcountry was once a necessity for cooking and heat, but the development of versatile and efficient camp stoves has facilitated a shift away from the traditional fire. With increased use of the backcountry, the natural appearance of many areas has been compromised by overuse of fires and an increasing demand for firewood.
Stoves are now almost essential equipment for minimum impact camping.
They are fast and flexible, and eliminate firewood availability as a concern in campsite selection. If you typically depend on fires for cooking, consider using a stove instead, and build a social fire just one of two nights of your trip. A lightweight candle lantern or small gas lantern makes a pleasant alternative light source. The availability of the right amount and type of firewood. In high use areas, where impacts should be confined to durable sites, campfires can be built in existing fire rings if there is sufficient firewood.