Where to Enjoy Bonfires and Campfires In Los Angeles

The smell of smoke in your hair, the taste of freshly roasted marshmallows, the singalongs with friends and family, summer is a great time to gather around a campfire or bonfire. Here in Los Angeles, because of our risk of wildfires, caution must always be observed but following the rules doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time. Below are some ideas for campfire and bonfire evenings in Los Angeles.

Park Campfire Events:

During the summer Santa Monica Conservancy hosts evening campfires in several local parks around Los Angeles including Franklin Canyon Park. Vista Hermosa Natural Park, and Temescal Gateway Park. These events are great fun for kids and include campfire songs, marshmallow roasting and a nature program. For more information visit: LAMountains.com.

Dockweiler Beach Fire Pits:

Per the County, no barbecues or bonfires are allowed on any of the Los Angeles County Beaches (or parking lots) except in the fire pits at Dockweiler Beach. The fire rings are open from dawn until 10 p.m. and even though there are over 50 of them they get crowded so you may have to go early to find a spot. Several beaches in Orange County and San Diego counties also allow beach bonfires–BeachCalifornia has a list of sites to try.

Campfires in Local Parks:

Campfire Permits are required for open fires, such as campfire, barbecues and portable stoves on federally controlled lands. You can obtain a printable campfire permit online. It is important to do this because some of our large fires were started from illegal campfires. The only type of fire allowed outside designated Forest Service campgrounds and picnic areas at this time is a portable stove using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel.

Restaurants with Fire Pits:

You don’t have to go rustic to enjoy a fire pit. If you don’t have a friend with a backyard firepit, fear not, many local restaurants have great fire pits. Some local favorites include A-Frame and the Rooftop on Wilshire which offers a rooftop firepit with an amazing view. Check out more ideas on this list from Citysearch.