Is it safe to burn driftwood in a beachside fire pit during camping?

Short answer

Why people ask this

Campers at the beach often see piles of driftwood and assume it’s free, convenient fuel for a seaside fire pit. Beachside campgrounds can also limit what wood you’re allowed to burn, so people want to know if driftwood is acceptable. Salt-soaked driftwood can release corrosive fumes and toxic compounds when burned. Coastal winds can carry smoke and embers farther than expected. Many beaches specifically prohibit burning driftwood to protect dunes, wildlife, and air quality.

When it might be safe

There are no commonly accepted situations where this is considered safe.

When it is not safe

• Salt-laden driftwood can release hydrochloric acid and other chlorine-containing fumes when burned, especially in a windy beachside fire pit.
• Moist, porous driftwood often smolders and smokes heavily, creating irritating plumes that blow across campsites and shoreline trails.
• Popping and excessive sparking are common as trapped moisture and salt heat up, increasing ember spread on sandy, windy beaches.
• Embedded nails, screws, or remnants of treated lumber in drift bundles can add toxicants and create injury hazards when handling or stoking.
• Many beach and coastal campground rules specifically ban burning driftwood to protect dunes and tidepool habitats.

Possible risks

• Respiratory irritation from acidic, salty smoke and fine particulates carried by coastal winds.
• Potential formation of toxic chlorinated byproducts during incomplete combustion of salt-soaked wood.
• Windborne embers igniting dune grasses or nearby boardwalks and campsite gear.
• Corrosion and damage to metal fire grates, cookware, and camp tools from acidic emissions.
• Fines or eviction for violating beach fire policies that prohibit driftwood burning.

Safer alternatives

• Use locally purchased, seasoned or kiln-dried firewood approved by the beach campground or park store.
• Bring manufactured fire logs rated for outdoor fire pits, following all beach fire rules and burn bans.
• Opt for a propane fire pit where allowed; the flame is controllable and less affected by coastal winds.
• If wood fires are restricted, use charcoal in provided grills or designated BBQ rings instead of open pits.
• Plan for no-fire evenings: headlamps, warm layers, and a windbreak for comfort on exposed beaches.

Bottom line

Skip burning driftwood in a beachside fire pit. It’s smoky, potentially toxic, spreads embers in coastal winds, and is often against beach rules—use approved firewood, propane, or other allowed options instead.

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