11 Fire Pit Ideas for Your Backyard

11 Fire Pit Ideas for Your Backyard

by — Andra DelMonico
Published on October 26, 2021
Updated on February 20, 2025

Have you always wanted to build a fire pit in your backyard but never got around to building it? Then now is the time. With more people embracing the outdoor living lifestyle, building a fire pit increases your use of your property and increases your property value.

Don’t get lazy and slap a cheap fire bowl on your lawn and call it a day. This won’t last, and ultimately, it won’t create the aesthetic and atmosphere that makes people want to stick around and hang out. Instead, build a high-quality permanent structure that is durable enough to last for years to come.

These outdoor fire pit ideas will help you design the perfect setup for your backyard.

1. Enhance Your Space with a Brick Fire Pit

If you’re looking for creative brick fire pit ideas, why not consider exposed brick or stamped brick designs? Exposed brick gives you more of an organic, untamed look and can be a great option if you want earthy energy in your backyard.

Stamped brick patterns on the other hand can offer an interesting visual twist that’s both stylish and uniquely eye-catching. Either option will be sure to energize your outdoor gatherings and create the perfect atmosphere for timeless moments with the ones you love.

A stone fire pit with bright flames surrounded by patio chairs on a paved outdoor area with trees in the background — Source: @howkinslandscape via Instagram

A circular stone patio with a fire pit in the center, surrounded by a low retaining wall with lanterns, grass and mulch on the sides — Source: @jake_from_weight_farm via Instagram

Backyard with wooden benches around a brick fire pit, a hammock to the right, and a house in the background under a blue sky — Source: @penty_barn_holiday_home_wales via Instagram

Backyard patio with red cushioned chairs around a lit fire pit on a brick surface, near a house at dusk — Source: @yavapailandscaping via Instagram

2. Create Cozy Gatherings Around a Seated Fire Pit

Sitting around fire pits is some of the most iconic activities found in traditional summer gatherings. Your fire pit will be a centerpiece for outdoor entertaining, and you can enjoy it year-round, rain or shine. With weatherproof seating, you can keep the party going regardless of the forecast.

Whether it’s an intimate evening with friends or a big block party, a fire pit with gather-around seating is sure to make it a night to remember.

Outdoor deck with a fire pit table surrounded by four cushioned chairs, light dusting of snow, trees and houses in the background — Source: @brainiacsinstallers via Instagram

Outdoor patio with lounge chairs and a round fire pit. Blue parasols are closed. Ocean and hills visible in the background — Source: @curiouskathyadventures via Instagram

Wooden chairs arranged around a stone fire pit on a circular patio in a backyard with a tall fence and houses in the background — Source: @hd_developmentgroup via Instagram

Four red Adirondack chairs surround a stone fire pit on a gravel patio, with a wooden fence and trees in the background — Source: @lafayettenation via Instagram

Stylish outdoor patio with modern furniture, a fire pit, and a tree. Open view to interior room with elegant decor and warm lighting — Source: @make_it_fabulous_ via Instagram

3. Experience Elegance with a Concrete Fire Pit

Capturing the raw and rustic atmosphere of a bonfire with the comfort and safety of a fire pit, raw concrete fire pits can be a great way to add warmth and character to your outdoor space. They offer an aesthetic charm perfect for those who enjoy raw materials just as they are.

This raw feel can be further enhanced by adding pebbles around your raw concrete fire pit creating an interesting design effect that will become a talking point at any gathering.

With their raw and rustic appeal, raw concrete fire pits won’t just keep you cozy in the evening – they will also provide stunning visual interest for relaxing evenings or gatherings.

Rooftop patio with a round fire pit, cozy gray seating, colorful pillows, a patterned rug, and a wooden privacy fence — Source: @awholenewbuild via Instagram

Outdoor patio with four wooden lounge chairs around a rectangular concrete fire pit, framed by greenery and a modern house facade — Source: @jessicabodasphotography via Instagram

Modern rectangular fire pit with stones, set on a patio by a swimming pool with green hedges in the background — Source: @mikepyledesign via Instagram

Modern outdoor fire pit with a sleek design, surrounded by wooden benches on a gravel surface, set against a backdrop of trees — Source: @mitchell_landscape via Instagram

Balcony with two chairs and a round stone fire pit overlooking a cityscape and mountains — Source: @tallerdoninelli via Instagram

Modern outdoor patio with white cushioned wooden furniture, a concrete fire pit, and a barbecue grill set against a wooden fence backdrop — Source: @mirascape via Instagram

4. Build a DIY Low-Cost Brick Fire Pit

Getting a perfect fire pit to enjoy cozy evenings with your family and friends doesn’t always have to break the bank. With just a few loose bricks, you can assemble a low-cost fire pit that will provide plenty of warmth and moments of relaxing outdoor quality time.

Whether you are planning to huddle around the fire for coffee conversations in the morning, or indulge in some Barbecue treats around it the night, assembling a low-cost fire pit is the perfect way to savor those precious moments.

Brick fire pit with charred logs in a grassy area surrounded by trees and fallen leaves — Source: @606designstudio via Instagram

A fire pit made of bricks with bright flames burning inside, set on a paved patio in a backyard with a wooden fence and picnic table — Source: @daniel_essary via Instagram

A stone fire pit with bright flames, surrounded by gravel, set in a garden with lush green plants and tall bamboo in the background — Source: @easyfirepits via Instagram

Outdoor fire pit with a small flame, surrounded by wooden logs; two wicker chairs and a small table nearby; fenced yard in the background — Source: @make.it.with.michelle via Instagram

5. Embrace Minimalist Style with a Fire Pit

A minimalist, yet elegant fire pit can be the perfect addition to any backyard, patio, or garden. Usually made with solid steel construction, it will last through all kinds of weather while providing inviting warmth and visual appeal to your outdoor gathering space.

Whether you are looking for a cozy spot to gather around on cool evenings or the perfect focal point for your next soirée, this minimalist fire pit hits just the right note with its minimalistic design and concave concrete steel construction.

A black fire pit with a small flame sits on a gravel patio surrounded by stepping stones, with trees and plants in the background — Source: @firepitsandgardenfeatures via Instagram

Outdoor seating with three black chairs around a rectangular fire pit on sandy ground, set against a brick wall and clear sky — Source: @jayjay.sader via Instagram

6. Choose an Eco-Friendly Composite Fire Pit

Transform your outdoor space into a place of warmth and ambiance with a composite fire pit! Constructing an outdoor retreat can be made easy with this concrete fire pit and its convenient cover-up options. Crafted from concrete and tailored with either a natural wood look or silky tile, these concrete fire pits double as stylish furniture pieces for your patio area.

Place the perfect centerpiece on the outdoor entertaining space of your dreams with a concrete fire pit designed to fit perfectly with your home’s atmosphere. No matter what mood you’re going for, bring it all together by adding a beautiful concrete fire pit for warmth and radiance without abandoning style.

Modern patio with a sun lounger, round fire pit, two chairs, potted plants, and a fence in neutral tones with blue accents — Source: @fiallodesign via Instagram

Outdoor patio with wicker furniture, cushions, and a stone fire pit, surrounded by greenery and lit trees in the background — Source: @greenrootsllc via Instagram

Outdoor patio with modern gray sofas, a rectangular fire pit, wooden slat wall, and tropical plants; cozy seating area — Source: @mikepyledesign via Instagram

Modern fire pit on a wooden floor, surrounded by chairs, with flames rising above decorative stones — Source: @firepitscr via Instagram

7. Elevate Your Ambiance with a Steel Gas Fire Column

Discover the perfect outdoor companion with a steel propane gas fire column! Unmatched in style and substance, this sleek and minimalist design takes your patio parties to a whole new level. Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with its seamless design characteristics, along with its easy-to-move qualities for an effortless fire pit.

Impress your friends and family with this composite fire pit, allowing for more outdoor relaxation without the hassle. Enjoy your outdoor space like never before; the steel propane gas fire column ensures an unforgettable experience every time!

Cozy patio at dusk with string lights, a modern couch, geometric pillows, a fire pit, and a table with potted plants on a striped rug — Source: @homeboxed via Instagram

Cozy outdoor deck with wicker chairs, a round fire pit table, and a striped rug — Source: @lisahealionmeyer via Instagram

8. Dine Fireside on a Wicker Table with Gas Pit

Embrace cozy evenings with your wicker table and a propane gas fire pit that easily blends in. Enjoy the warmth and light radiating from your living room as you share stories with friends, or relax solo for some much-needed relaxation.

Forget about chill winds outside — intense heat can come from an unexpected source. After all, nothing beats spending a cold evening next to the wicker table with its incorporated fire pit!

Outdoor patio with gray wicker furniture, including a sectional, a bench, and a glass-top table with wine glasses, mountains in view — Source: @chimeshomeandgarden via Instagram

8. Transform Your Space with an In-Ground Fire Pit

Backyard fires in an in-ground fire pit are a great way to make a space in your home cozy and inviting. To create the perfect in-ground fire pit, all you need to do is dig a hole that fits the size of the fire ring you desire and then line in with gravel. Then cover the ring with pavers and you have your very own in-ground fire pit.

This is a great addition for entertaining guests in your backyard or for curling up by the fire with your family. Now all that’s left is to kick back in front of your new in-ground fire pit and enjoy some time spent with friends, family, and of course, warmth!

Backyard fire pit area with circular gravel layout, stone edge, and a central pit; wooden fence and house in the background — Source: @pogueparties via Instagram

Backyard scene with a stone fire pit, green lawn, stone steps, and a cottage in the background surrounded by trees — Source: @thatstoneguy via Instagram

Modern patio with a sunken seating area around a fire pit, featuring sleek geometric architecture with black, brown, and gray tones — Source: @ten10apparel via Instagram

White arch with red roses leads to a gravel seating area with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit, surrounded by lush greenery — Source: @thecozyhomegays via Instagram

9. Ignite Your Style with a Metal Fire Pit

For an evening of fun and relaxation, nothing quite says “summer” like gathering around an aluminum fire pit with family and friends. Transform your backyard into a cozy wonderland with the big old pot as the centerpiece and enjoy conversations in the glow of flickering flames.

Best of all, you can always enhance the experience further by adding a grill to give your metal fire pit double duty – whether you’re roasting marshmallows for s’mores or grilling up savory favorites to feed a hungry crowd. Let your metal fire pit become the memorable highlight of summertime gatherings!

Outdoor patio with a round metal fire pit, covered by a mesh dome, surrounded by striped cushioned chairs and a grill nearby — Source: @firepitscreens via Instagram

A black metal fire pit with burning logs and a round grill, set on grass with greenery in the background — Source: @firepitsuk via Instagram

A fire pit with burning logs on gravel, surrounded by two wooden benches, with dense green foliage in the background — Source: @anorthernnest via Instagram

Fire pit on gravel patio surrounded by cushioned chairs on a sunny day — Source: @kuhnskustoms via Instagram

Fire pit lit on patio with large American flag panel on white fence, surrounded by grass and trees — Source: @munsonb815 via Instagram

A black metal fire pit with a flame design sits on a brick patio, surrounded by Adirondack chairs and a plaid blanket draped over one chair — Source: @plowandhearth via Instagram

Two wooden chairs with cushions sit around a steel fire pit on a grassy lawn, with trees and greenery in the background — Source: @seaislandforge via Instagram

10. Get Modern with a Box Fire Pit

Transform your outdoor space with a modern box-type propane gas fire pit. Add pebbles around the box frame and switch from an outdoor lounge area to an intimate gathering place. At night, it can cast a warm & cheerful glow while during the day you can use it as a coffee table or just bask in the sun near its comfort of warmth.

An easy upgrade and great conversation starter, your modern fire pit will be the star of your outdoor living space!

Modern patio with gray chairs, geometric pillows, a sleek fire pit, lush greenery, and terraced wood decking in the background — Source: @designbybrookside via Instagram

Outdoor patio with a long white sofa, gray cushions, string lights, and a modern-style fire pit — Source: @pacificstonedesign via Instagram

11. Discover the Beauty of a Stone Fire Pit

If your outdoor living space has been yearning for rustic charm and rusticity, then a stone fire pit is just what you need. Its rustic properties are like no other, creating a beautiful and natural look to the area.

Not only does it grant an unmistakable atmosphere of adventure but if placed cleverly it can enhance the stamped tiles of the patio in order to complement each other perfectly, giving your backyard a feeling of tranquility and serenity.

Use the rocks and your property to dictate the shape of your fire pit. Angular and block/like rocks are best used to build a square fire pit. Smaller and more rounded stones work best to build a circular fire pit. However, this is just a guide. You can use square or rectangular stones to make a round fire pit when the pit is large enough to overcome the shape of the stones.

Outdoor patio with stone fire pit, surrounded by four black chairs with blue cushions, a grill stands nearby, and trees in the background — Source: @borst_landscape via Instagram

Stone fire pit with burning fire in a yard, a small wooden hut and a soccer ball nearby, overcast sky in the background — Source: @cadorium via Instagram

Stone fire pit with black gravel on patio, wooden bench and potted plant nearby, brick house with glass doors in the background — Source: @betterbuildlandscapes via Instagram

Stone fire pit with a mesh cover, surrounded by patio chairs, in front of windows, notice sign visible on its side — Source: @firepitscreens via Instagram

Outdoor stone fire pit with flames, surrounded by brick walls and pavement, in a backyard setting — Source: @josh_landscape via Instagram

Outdoor stone fire pit with flames, surrounded by brick walls and pavement, in a backyard setting — Source: @ravenwoodsfarm via Instagram

Outdoor patio with a stone fire pit and four wooden chairs, surrounded by a wooden fence and plants — Source: @stacisoutdoorliving via Instagram

FAQs

What do you put in the bottom of a fire pit?

The first layer in the bottom of your fire pit should be sand. This creates a non-flammable and dense layer at the base of your fire pit. Then top this layer with lava rocks, fire pit glass, or gravel. These are all durable materials that encourage airflow while also being safe for use in the potentially very high heat of your fire.

How can I make my fire pit look better?

Look beyond the basic functionality of your fire pit. It should be aesthetically pleasing by using stones or pavers that have an attractive color. Consider building these pavers out to create a solid base for your chairs. A low outer wall around the outside of the seating area can block strong winds and reflect the warmth created by the fire pit back towards you.

How deep should a fire pit be?

The depth of your fire pit depends on the overall size of your project and how in-depth you want to get with your project. A simple DIY fire pit could be as shallow as six to eight inches. You can easily go deeper if you want. However, don’t make your pit so deep that it struggles to get air, and you can’t enjoy the actual fire.