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12 Best Propane Fire Pits
Cool or warm evenings, roasting hot dogs or marshmallows, small or large gatherings — fire pits are the ultimate hangout spot. Discover which gas fire pit is the right fit for your outdoor space and what to consider before buying.
Our Top Propane Fire Pit Picks
- Best Overall: Giantex Propane Fire Pit
- Best Budget: Bali Outdoors Propane Fire Pit Table
- Best Concrete: Real Flame Riverside Propane Fire Pit
- Best Fire Table: Outland Living Propane Fire Pit Table
- Best Coffee Table: West Elm Rectangle Pedestal Fire Pit Table
- Best for Travel: Outland Living Propane Fire Bowl
- Best Round: Teamson Home Faux Concrete Propane Fire Pit
- Best Aluminum: Fleur De Lis Slattery Aluminum Propane Fire Pit Table
- Best Double-Duty: Ebern Designs Jenese Propane Fire Pit Table
- Best for Small Spaces: Project 62 Pipestone Propane Fire Column
- Best Luxury: EcoSmart Propane Fire Table Ark 40
- Best Low-Profile: Joss & Main Fen Propane Fire Table
A fire pit instantly makes your backyard a destination point to gather with people you love or to simply have a moment to yourself. However, the reality of getting kindling to light, cleaning up ashes and smelling like smoke long after the embers are out might be a deterrent to hanging around the flames. Instead, consider a fire pit that runs on propane gas.
Not only do they offer the same warmth and ambiance as their wood-burning counterparts, but they also have the additional benefit of burning cleaner, not emitting smoke or creating sparks, being easier to light and, best of all, getting a fire going in mere seconds.
How to Choose the Best Propane Gas Fire Pit
Start by looking at your outdoor space to figure out which size and shape will work best. Gas fire pits come in any shape (round, square, rectangular) and size, from small tabletop to oversized gathering spots. While bigger fire pits will create more square footage of heat, keep in mind the all-important heat output.
Heat Output
You don't sacrifice warmth with gas fire pits. Each is rated with a heat output that's measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTU, the more heat your fire pit will produce. Most gas fire pits range from 30,000 to 60,000 BTUs, though they can go up to 100,000 BTUs.
Fuel Source
Typically powered by a 20-pound propane tank, propane fire pits are easy to light and extinguish with a simple turn of a knob. The propane tank is either hidden inside the fire pit or connects to a line separately. When you need to refill or replace your propane tank, head to your local hardware or grocery store — they'll have you covered. While propane tends to be much more expensive than natural gas, it burns more efficiently. Not to mention, propane fire pits are customarily simpler to install.
How to Light Your Fire Pit
No gathering kindling or buying fire starters to get your flames going. Propane gas fire pits run off ignition systems. For a manual ignition, open the gas valve and use a match or lighter to start the fire. A spark ignition uses a push-button that creates a small spark to ignite the gas. Electronic ignition is the most user-friendly and only requires the flip of a switch, turn of a knob or even a remote.
Best Overall Propane Fire Pit
With a heat output of 40,000 BTU, this natural-looking fire pit is a warm, rustic addition to your backyard. Lava rocks cover the burner to keep it safe, as well as create a uniformed flame. The easy-to-operate fire pit has a one-step ignition button and knob for adjusting flame intensity. An included waterproof cover protects the fire pit when not in use.
Best Budget Propane Fire Pit
Conceal your propane gas tank within this top-rated fire pit, which is sturdy and tall enough to hide it. The square fire table has a stainless-steel burner hidden by blue fire glass, which helps preserve heat production, while a streamlined control panel ignites with the push of a button. For less than $200, this is a smart buy that doesn't break the bank.
Best Concrete Propane Fire Pit
Transform your backyard into an extraordinary entertainment space with the Riverside Gas Fire Bowl. This natural-looking fiber-cast concrete bowl is lightweight, yet durable and includes lava rock, a tank seat and a protective cover.
Best Propane Fire Table
Fire pits that double as furniture instantly maximize the functionality of your outdoor space. This linear all-weather resin wicker table features a central fire pit on a bed of glass rocks surrounded by a black tempered glass tabletop. One side of the table easily pops down to access the propane tank when needed and closes up to store it away.
Best Propane Fire Pit Coffee Table
This contemporary pedestal-base centerpiece has a steel-and-brass fire pit on one side and a flat surface for drinks, snacks or putting your feet up on the other. The glass fiber structure is reinforced by a concrete frame and then finished with a weather-resistant gray sealant.
Best Propane Fire Pit for Traveling
Enjoy a cozy campfire without the hassle of smoke in your face, dirty ash and piles of firewood. Designed with a stainless steel burner and a chrome valve knob to adjust the flame height, this CSA-approved fire pit is able to emit 58,000 BTU per hour and is sure to provide an efficient and stellar campfire experience. Natural lava rocks for an enhanced flickering effect, a 10-foot hose and a weather-resistant cover are included.
Best Rounded Fire Pit
Add chic curves to your outdoor space with this light gray fire pit with a concrete finish. Featuring a lovely circular bowl shape, this elegant centerpiece is a perfect accent to set the mood with the perfect amount of ambient light and a cozy warmth. The adjustable flame can start a fire whenever you're ready to gather around.
Best Aluminum Propane Fire Pit
Whether you're hanging out in your backyard or on your wooden patio, you can't go wrong with this weather-resistant, hidden tank table. Capable of releasing 55,000 BTU, you and your guests are sure to enjoy long and comfy nights outdoors. Not only is the coating heat-resistant, but clear fire glass and two protective covers are included.
Best Double-Duty Propane Fire Pit
Centered in this slatted bronze table is a square fire pit that features a stainless-steel burner under clear fire glass. Not just for gathering around the fire, a cover fits seamlessly over the fire pit to create a usable solid surface for dining or entertaining. Unlike a lot of fire pits, this one can safely sit directly on a wooden deck.
Best Propane Pit For Small Spaces
Column fire pits are ideal for on-the-small-side outdoor spaces. The narrow design not only fits comfortably between two chairs or in the corner, but a control knob allows you to adjust the flame for the right temperature. With 15,000 BTUs of heat, the tiny but mighty fire pit is topped in lava rock that creates the look of glowing embers. Note: The propane tank is sold separately.
Best Luxury Propane Fire Pit
Made from composite concrete, this grand fire pit provides a ton of space for setting out drinks and appetizers. Height-adjustable feet allow you to customize the fire pit for your space and it comes in three colors: bone, graphite or natural. The Ark 40 operates with three fuel types, too: natural gas or propane for outdoor use or eco-friendly bioethanol that can be used indoors or out.
Best Low-Profile Propane Fire Pit
Take a seat fireside with this chic contemporary fire pit. Surrounded by powder-coated iron, the fire pit has a heat output of 50,000 BTUs and also comes with a separate tank holder.
Gas Fire Pits: Propane vs. Natural Gas
Which fuel is best for your fire pit — propane or natural gas? Learn about the pros and cons of propane and natural gas fire pits.
