Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch Review: The Ultimate Verdict on Portable Campfire Convenience

There’s a romantic, almost primal allure to gathering around a crackling campfire. I’ve spent countless nights under the stars, mesmerized by dancing flames, sharing stories with friends and family. But let’s be honest about the other side of that coin. I’ve also spent hours hunting for dry wood in damp forests, struggled with stubborn kindling, and played an endless game of musical chairs to avoid the billowing smoke that seems to have a personal vendetta against my eyes and lungs. Then comes the aftermath: clothes and hair saturated with a smoky odor that lasts for days, and the nervous responsibility of ensuring every last ember is extinguished. This entire ritual becomes impossible when a dreaded campfire ban is in effect, threatening to put a damper on an entire camping trip. The simple desire for warmth and ambiance shouldn’t be a chore or a hazard. It’s this very frustration that led us to search for a better way—a solution that offers all the joy of a fire with none of the hassle.

What to Consider Before Buying a Propane Fire Pit

A propane fire pit is more than just an outdoor appliance; it’s a key solution for creating instant ambiance, warmth, and a social focal point without the labor and mess of a traditional wood fire. It solves the problems of smoke, ash cleanup, spark hazards, and the constant need to tend to the flames. For those living in areas with frequent burn bans, a CSA-approved propane fire pit like this one is often the only way to legally enjoy a campfire experience. The main benefits are undeniable: convenience, cleanliness, safety, and control. With the turn of a knob, you have a beautiful, consistent fire that can be extinguished just as quickly, providing peace of mind whether you’re on your back deck or deep in the wilderness.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values convenience and spontaneity. This includes RV travelers, car campers, tailgaters, and homeowners who want a hassle-free fire on their patio or deck. If you dread the smoke, have respiratory sensitivities, or camp in regions where firewood is scarce or regulated, a propane fire pit is a game-changer. Conversely, it might not be suitable for the traditionalist who believes the entire experience is rooted in splitting wood and the distinct aroma of a wood fire. If you require intense, radiating heat for large groups in very cold conditions or prefer the self-sufficient nature of burning foraged wood, a high-end wood-burning smokeless pit might be a better, albeit more expensive and less portable, alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

  • Dimensions & Space: Consider where you’ll use it most. A 24-inch diameter like this model is a fantastic sweet spot, large enough for a group of 4-6 people to gather around comfortably, yet at 34 pounds, it remains portable enough for camping trips. For a permanent backyard fixture, you might consider a larger, heavier unit, but for versatile use, portability is key.
  • Capacity/Performance: The heat output, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), is paramount. The 58,000 BTU rating of this model is at the higher end for portable pits, promising substantial warmth. Also, look for an adjustable regulator, which allows you to control the flame height and heat, conserving fuel on milder evenings and cranking it up when the temperature drops.
  • Materials & Durability: Look for robust construction. The Outland Living Firebowl uses alloy steel with a protective enamel finish to resist the elements, coupled with a stainless steel burner and fasteners. This combination is designed for longevity and is a significant step up from cheaper models that may use lower-grade painted steel that can rust or flake over time.
  • Ease of Use & Maintenance: The best portable fire pits require no tools for assembly. Look for a pre-attached hose of a generous length—the 10-foot hose included here is ideal for keeping the propane tank safely out of sight. Maintenance should be minimal; a good cover protects the burner from rain and debris, ensuring it’s ready to go whenever you are.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications and features here.

While the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

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First Impressions: Ready for Adventure Right Out of the Box

Our experience with the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch began with the unboxing, and the first word that came to mind was “substantial.” Some online users have noted issues with shipping damage when sent in its original packaging, but our unit arrived securely double-boxed, a clear improvement in packaging. Lifting the 34-pound unit out, it felt solid and well-constructed, not flimsy. The black enamel finish was sleek and uniform, and the stainless steel burner assembly gleamed. There is absolutely no assembly required, a fact we can’t overstate the value of. The kit is complete: the fire bowl, a generous 10-foot pre-attached hose with a quality regulator, a bag of natural lava rocks (ours weighed in correctly at 6.6 lbs), a propane tank stabilizer ring, and a weather-resistant cover. Compared to setting up a traditional fire, this was a revelation. Within five minutes, we had the lava rocks arranged in the bowl, the stabilizer under our 20lb propane tank, and the hose connected. It felt less like a piece of camping gear and more like a well-designed appliance built for the outdoors.

Key Benefits

  • Powerful 58,000 BTU heat output provides significant warmth
  • Completely smokeless and ash-free for a clean, enjoyable experience
  • Extremely easy setup with no tools required
  • CSA-approved for safe use during most campfire bans
  • Durable steel construction with a protective enamel finish

Potential Drawbacks

  • Lacks a built-in piezo igniter, requiring a lighter or match
  • Heat is directed more vertically than horizontally

A Deep Dive into the Outland Firebowl’s Performance

After several weeks of rigorous testing in various settings—from chilly backyard evenings to a weekend camping trip—we’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of what makes the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch a standout product. It’s not just about turning a knob; it’s about how seamlessly it integrates into the outdoor experience, enhancing it without adding complications.

Setup and Portability: From Box to Bonfire in Minutes

The biggest immediate win for this fire pit is its sheer simplicity. As one user aptly put it, it’s “ridiculously easy to set up.” Our experience mirrored this perfectly. From a sealed box to a lit fire took us less than five minutes, and most of that time was spent artfully arranging the lava rocks over the burner ring. The instructions are clear, but frankly, the process is so intuitive you hardly need them. You simply place the rocks, set your standard 20lb propane tank on the included stabilizer ring (a small but thoughtful addition that prevents tipping), and hand-tighten the regulator hose to the tank. That’s it. There are no tools, no screws, no frustrating diagrams.

At 34 pounds, it hits the sweet spot for portability. It’s light enough for one person to carry from the garage to the patio or to load into the back of a truck for a camping trip. Several users mentioned that it “takes up significant room,” which is true for a compact car, but for any truck or SUV, it’s a manageable size. The included soft cover is functional for keeping dust and leaves out, but we agree with the sentiment that purchasing the optional carry bag is a wise investment if you plan to transport it frequently, as it helps contain the lava rocks which can shift during travel. This ease of transport and setup fundamentally changes how you can use a fire pit. It becomes a tool for spontaneity—perfect for an impromptu driveway gathering with neighbors or a last-minute decision to enjoy a chilly mountain morning at the campsite.

Heat Output and Flame Performance: The 58,000 BTU Question

With a 58,000 BTU rating, our expectations for heat were high, and the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch did not disappoint. On a calm, 40°F night, we found that four people sitting in camp chairs could stay comfortably warm. One user noted, “I ran it pretty much full heat and ended up moving our camp chairs back,” which we also experienced. The heat is potent, especially when cranked to its maximum setting. Another user in Colorado even stated they could enjoy it in sub-30-degree weather without a coat, a testament to its powerful output.

It’s important to understand the nature of this heat. As many have pointed out, the heat is primarily directed vertically. You won’t get the same ground-level, horizontal radiant heat that you feel from a bed of wood coals. You need to sit within a few feet to get the full warming effect. This is not a flaw, but a characteristic of this design. The flames dance beautifully through the lava rocks, creating a mesmerizing, realistic effect that grows more impressive as the rocks heat up and begin to glow. We found that strategically mounding the lava rocks in a pyramid or dome over the burner ring helps create a more varied and taller flame pattern.

A crucial point, echoed in numerous user reviews, concerns the safety regulator. If you open the propane tank valve too quickly, the regulator’s safety flow limiter will kick in, resulting in a very low, weak flame that won’t respond to the control knob. We experienced this ourselves. The fix is simple: turn everything off, disconnect the hose, wait a minute, reconnect it, and then open the tank valve *very slowly*. Once you master this small trick, you gain full control over a wide range of flame heights, from a low, ambient flicker to a roaring blaze. If you’re looking for an effortless way to create a warm and inviting outdoor space, this high-output fire pit is a fantastic solution.

Build Quality and Longevity: An Investment That Lasts

A portable item that gets moved around and exposed to the elements needs to be tough, and our inspection confirms the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch is built for the long haul. The body is made from thick-gauge alloy steel, and the protective high-temperature enamel finish feels durable, unlike the thin paint on some budget models that can quickly peel or rust. The critical components—the burner ring and the fasteners holding it in place—are stainless steel, providing excellent resistance to corrosion and heat degradation.

We were particularly impressed by a user who provided a five-year update, stating there was “absolutely no deterioration of the enameled surface at all” and that the “burner and control are still in excellent condition and working perfectly.” This kind of real-world, long-term feedback is invaluable and confirms our initial assessment of its quality. The 10-foot hose is another high-quality component, providing ample length to keep the propane tank out of the immediate social circle, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. The control valve itself operates smoothly, allowing for fine adjustments to the flame height. While the design is more utilitarian than some decorative fire tables, its focus is clearly on function and durability, making it a reliable workhorse for years of outdoor enjoyment.

The Smokeless Experience and Burn Ban Compliance

This is arguably the most significant benefit. For anyone who has ever hosted a backyard party that ended with guests shuffling their chairs to escape a plume of smoke, this fire pit is a revelation. The propane burns completely clean. There is no smoke, no soot, no flying embers. You can sit and enjoy the heat without your eyes watering or your clothes smelling like you’ve been battling a forest fire. As one user from Arizona perfectly articulated, “There’s also no ash to deal with as it doesn’t emit smoke, and you don’t walk away with your clothes and skin smelling like smoke.”

This feature is more than a convenience; it’s a critical safety and compliance tool. The CSA certification and spark-free operation make it permissible to use during most Stage 1 and Stage 2 campfire bans (though you should always check local regulations). For campers, this can be the difference between huddling in the cold and enjoying a warm, social evening. We heard from a hunter who was initially skeptical but was converted when a burn ban threatened his opening weekend trip. He called it a worthy replacement for a wood campfire, saving his trip. This ability to provide a safe, legal fire in restricted conditions makes the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch an essential piece of gear for any serious camper or RVer in drier climates.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the sentiment for the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch is overwhelmingly positive. Users consistently praise it as a “game changer for camping.” One happy customer described how it kept their group of eight comfortable in 30-degree weather during a fire ban, noting that a single propane tank lasted for about 8 hours on the high setting. Another, a self-described “wood campfire kind of guy,” admitted his initial skepticism vanished after his first use, praising the convenience of having no wood to cut and no ash to clean.

The most common points of constructive feedback revolve around two small issues. First is the lack of a push-button piezo igniter. As one user stated, “it doesn’t have an ignition button which would be nice but I can live without it.” We agree; using a long-reach lighter is a minor inconvenience but one worth noting. The second issue, as previously discussed, is the sensitive safety regulator. A user helpfully explained, “The main complaint from people seems to be the problems getting a higher flame height. This is due to the propane safety valve and can be eliminated by proper gas turn on.” By turning the tank on slowly, this issue is completely avoided. These minor quibbles do little to detract from the overall stellar reputation of the product.

How Does the Outland Firebowl Compare to the Alternatives?

While the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch excels in its category, it’s important to understand how it fits into the broader market. Different needs call for different solutions, and there are excellent alternatives depending on your priorities.

1. Pure Garden 32-Inch Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit

Sale
Fire Pit - 32-Inch Outdoor Wood Burning Firepit with Screen, Poker, and Cover - Outdoor Fire Pits...
  • OUTDOOR FIRE PIT - Create lasting memories with family and friends while enjoying a cozy fire with the patio fire pit. This small fire pit is an ideal blend of modern design and natural elements with...
  • DURABLE DESIGN - Made from powder-coated steel to resist rust, this outdoor fireplace is sturdy and weatherproof for long-lasting use. The steel leg construction and decorative design is a charming...
  • LOW MAINTENANCE - The portable fire pit is easy to set up, requires very little upkeep, and is wood burning for convenient heating. Clean the outside of the bonfire fire pit with a slightly damp cloth...

If your primary desire is the authentic crackle, smell, and radiating heat of a real wood fire, and you aren’t constrained by burn bans or a desire for portability, the Pure Garden Wood Burning Fire Pit is a fantastic budget-friendly choice. It’s larger, creating a bigger visual centerpiece, and comes with a spark screen and poker. This is for the traditionalist who enjoys the ritual of building and tending a fire. However, it comes with all the classic drawbacks: smoke, ash cleanup, the need for a steady supply of firewood, and the inability to use it during fire bans. It’s an excellent choice for a dedicated backyard fire spot, but it lacks the convenience and versatility of the Outland Firebowl.

2. Breeo X Series 24 Corten Steel Smokeless Fire Pit

Breeo Smokeless Fire Pit (X Series 24, Corten Steel) | 27.5 inch Smokeless Firepit for Outside | 62...
  • SMOKELESS FIRE PIT: Designed to create a warm, inviting atmosphere without the smoke, this fire pit is ideal for backyard gatherings or cozy evenings. Its stylish corten steel finish enhances any...
  • COMPATIBLE WITH BREEO ACCESSORIES - This outdoor fire pit is compatible with Breeo’s wide range of live-fire cooking accessories, offering endless outdoor cooking possibilities. From grilling to...
  • INNOVATIVE AIRFLOW TECHNOLOGY - Breeo’s patented X Airflow technology feeds oxygen to the fire, allowing it to ignite quickly and burn efficiently. This technology helps minimize smoke and provides...

The Breeo X Series represents the pinnacle of wood-burning fire pit technology. It’s for the enthusiast who wants the best of both worlds: a real wood fire with dramatically reduced smoke. Its advanced airflow design creates a secondary combustion that burns off most of the smoke, offering a much more pleasant experience than a traditional fire pit. Made from heavy-duty Corten steel, it’s built to last a lifetime and develops a beautiful, maintenance-free patina. The tradeoff is a significantly higher price point and a hefty weight (62 pounds), making it more of a permanent fixture than a portable companion. It’s the ultimate upgrade for a dedicated wood-fire lover, while the Outland is for the master of convenience.

3. Solo Stove Bonfire Heat Deflector

Solo Stove Bonfire Heat Deflector - Enhance Warmth and Comfort for Your Fire Pit - Durable 304...
  • ENHANCED WARMTH - Stay warm every season with this outdoor fire pit. Its angled deflection design captures and redirects warmth where you need it and expands the heat radius. Make every moment by the...
  • LASTS FOR YEARS - Constructed from high-quality 304 stainless steel, the Solo Stove Heat Deflector is built to withstand the elements and provide a lifetime of reliable use. This robust material...
  • ADAPTABLE USE - Ideal for various outdoor settings, the Solo Stove Heat Deflector enhances your fire pit experience whether you're camping, hosting a backyard gathering, or enjoying a quiet evening on...

This is not a fire pit itself, but a crucial accessory that addresses a common issue with smokeless wood fire pits like the Solo Stove—their tendency to direct heat upwards. This Heat Deflector is designed to sit on top of the fire pit, capturing and radiating that heat outwards, significantly warming the area around it for those sitting nearby. We’ve included this because one clever user mentioned using a similar topper on their Outland Firebowl to achieve the same effect. While designed for a different product, this highlights a potential modification for users who want to maximize horizontal heat. It’s the perfect purchase for an existing Solo Stove owner looking to enhance their experience, or a potential DIY inspiration for an Outland owner.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Outland Firebowl Worth It?

After extensive hands-on testing and careful consideration of countless user experiences, our conclusion is clear: the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch is an outstanding product that delivers exactly what it promises. It masterfully blends powerful performance with unparalleled convenience and safety. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who loves the ambiance of a campfire but is tired of the associated work, mess, and smoke. For campers, RV owners, and tailgaters, its portability and compliance with most burn bans make it an indispensable piece of gear.

While it lacks a push-button starter and its heat is more vertical than radiant, these are minor trade-offs for the immense benefits of an instant, clean, and warm fire at the turn of a knob. It’s well-built, easy to use, and powerful enough for chilly nights. It successfully bridges the gap between having no fire at all and the full commitment of a traditional wood fire. If you value your time and want to maximize your enjoyment of the outdoors, this fire pit is an investment you won’t regret. If you’ve decided the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.

Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API