Select an area clear from any bushes or trees that could catch. Build a fire with tinder under smaller sticks, then as they catch add more wood. Once the fire is caught and steadily burning, let the wood burn down to hot coals. You want to cook over coals, not huge flames. The temperature will be more consistent and you're less likely to burn yourself (and keep your eyebrows.) A campfire cooking grate or fire rings can be helpful, too.