Planning a bonfire by the river is one of my favorite ways to end a long day of hiking, kayaking, or swimming here in Tennessee. The crackling of the fire, the golden glow reflecting off the water, and the comforting scent of smoke in the air—it’s hard to beat that kind of peaceful moment. But enjoying that setting comes with responsibilities, especially when you’re dealing with fire near a delicate river ecosystem.
I’ve hosted and attended dozens of riverside bonfires over the years, and I’ve learned that safety and preparation can make all the difference between a magical evening and a dangerous situation. These riverbank bonfire safety tips aren’t just for campers or outdoor survivalists—they’re for anyone who wants to gather by the water without risking injury, fines, or environmental damage. Tennessee’s rivers are beautiful and accessible, and with a little knowledge, we can help keep them that way.
Checking Local Regulations First
Before I even think about stacking wood, I check the rules. Tennessee’s rivers often run through public lands, wildlife refuges, or city and county parks. Each of these areas may have its own restrictions on open flames. Some places completely prohibit fires, while others only allow them in designated fire rings or during certain seasons.
Wildfire risk is also a big factor here. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry may issue burn bans during dry periods. In those cases, even a small bonfire can lead to hefty fines—or worse, a full-blown wildfire. That’s why one of the most important riverbank bonfire safety tips is to check for permits, regulations, and burn bans in the county where you plan to build your fire.
Picking the Right Spot
I always take time to scout a safe, low-impact location. My go-to spots are set well back from the tree line and far from overhanging branches. I make sure the ground is level and free of dry grass or debris, and I keep a solid 15-foot radius around the fire pit completely clear.
Flat patches of sand, gravel, or hardened dirt work best. I never build directly on grass, near driftwood piles, or under root systems. Tennessee’s riverbanks can be unstable, especially after rain, so I also make sure I’m not building near a slope that could collapse or cause runoff into the river.
Elevation matters too. Fires built too close to the water can be extinguished unexpectedly by rising tides or flash rains. But go too far inland, and you risk being in a denser, more flammable area. A mid-zone spot that’s safely out of the way of both river and vegetation is my sweet spot.
Creating a Safe Fire Pit
Once I’ve found the right place, I build a safe fire pit. I either use a pre-existing ring or dig a shallow pit about one foot deep and three feet wide. Then, I surround the pit with a sturdy circle of rocks. This helps contain embers and prevent flames from spreading outward.
I always keep my fire small and manageable. A big blaze may look dramatic, but it’s unnecessary and risky, especially near dry brush or in windy weather. A three-log triangle or teepee fire provides plenty of warmth and ambiance for an evening on the riverbank.
These kinds of steps may seem basic, but they’re at the heart of smart riverbank bonfire safety tips. Most bonfire-related accidents I’ve witnessed came down to poor setup or fires that were simply too big to control.
Keeping Fire Safety Gear Nearby
When I set up for a bonfire, I make sure I have at least one full gallon of water nearby at all times. More is better. If I’m camping with friends, we bring a five-gallon bucket. A fire extinguisher is never overkill—especially when dry conditions are present.
I also carry a small shovel or trowel. It’s not just for digging the fire pit, but also for stirring the coals and covering the fire when it’s time to put it out. Sand can help smother flames too, so if I’m near a sandy bank, I use that to reinforce the extinguishing process.
Even on clear, calm nights, gusts of wind can come out of nowhere and send embers flying. So I’m always ready to douse a fire quickly if needed. These simple pieces of equipment have prevented more than one close call in my outdoor gatherings.
Using Proper Firewood
In Tennessee, it’s illegal in many places to collect wood from the forest floor—especially within state parks or protected areas. That’s why I always bring my own, preferably from a local source. Transporting firewood across county or state lines can spread pests like the emerald ash borer, so buying wood near your destination is safer for the environment.
I use seasoned, dry hardwoods like oak or hickory. Wet or green wood smokes too much and doesn’t burn efficiently. Avoid burning trash, plastics, or treated wood. Not only is that illegal in most outdoor areas, but it’s harmful to breathe and terrible for the surrounding ecosystem.
Some of the most important riverbank bonfire safety tips come down to being respectful of the land. Burning only natural, clean wood keeps the air and soil cleaner and helps preserve Tennessee’s wild spaces for future visitors.
Monitoring the Fire at All Times
One of the hard-and-fast rules I follow: never leave a fire unattended. Not for a minute. If everyone decides to take a walk or go for a swim, we either assign a fire-watcher or extinguish the flames before leaving the area.
Fires can spark into flare-ups even when they seem to be dying out. Winds can blow sparks toward nearby tents or gear. That’s why I keep the fire constantly monitored and maintain a tight area around it, free of gear, chairs, or sleeping bags.
Once I’m done with the fire, I don’t just pour water on it and walk away. I douse the coals until they’re cool to the touch, stir them with a stick or shovel, then douse again. Repeat the process until there’s no heat, no smoke, and no sound. That’s the only way to ensure the fire is truly out.
Being Mindful of Wildlife
Tennessee’s rivers support an enormous range of animals—raccoons, owls, snakes, otters, and more. A fire can disrupt their routines, chase them from their habitat, or attract them if food’s left unattended.
I avoid playing loud music or using harsh lighting. A fire’s glow is already a disturbance, and I do my best to keep my presence low-impact. I pack away all food, trash, and recyclables in sealed containers or bags and always carry them out with me.
One of the most underrated riverbank bonfire safety tips is to respect the animals that call these places home. Just because I’m a visitor doesn’t mean I should leave signs I was ever there.
Bonfire Etiquette When Others Are Nearby
Some riverbanks in Tennessee are popular with campers, fishers, and paddlers. If I’m not alone, I follow simple bonfire etiquette. That means keeping my fire small, avoiding smoky or pungent materials, and not letting my group get too rowdy.
Smoke carries quickly over water and can ruin the experience for others. I also avoid building fires in highly trafficked areas where it might disturb other people’s peace—or damage views and landscapes that others come to enjoy.
Bonfires are about community and sharing the space, not dominating it. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way toward ensuring everyone has a safe and pleasant experience.
Embracing the Leave No Trace Mentality
Before leaving, I make sure my fire pit is erased from view. I scatter cool ashes, return unused firewood to my vehicle or stack it neatly, and brush out any signs of foot traffic or food prep. Trash, food scraps, and even tiny bits of paper are all packed out.
Leave No Trace principles have become second nature for me, and they play a huge role in riverbank bonfire safety tips. If every visitor took the time to clean up thoroughly, Tennessee’s rivers would remain pristine for future generations.
Campers, hikers, and paddlers who take their environmental stewardship seriously help preserve the delicate balance of nature that makes riverfront experiences possible in the first place.
Knowing When to Cancel the Fire
Sometimes the weather just doesn’t cooperate. If the winds are too strong, if it’s been an unusually dry season, or if local authorities issue warnings, I cancel the fire altogether. Safety always trumps tradition.
Even a birthday party or anniversary celebration can wait for better conditions. I’ve called off more than one riverside bonfire because the risk didn’t feel right—and I never regretted it. Staying flexible and responsive to nature’s cues is part of the respect we owe the rivers we love.
This mindset is one of the most valuable riverbank bonfire safety tips I can offer: trust your instincts and put safety first, every time.
A Fire to Remember, Not Regret
With the right planning, a riverbank bonfire in Tennessee can be the centerpiece of a perfect night. Roasting marshmallows, telling stories, watching the stars rise over the water—it’s the kind of evening that stays with you.
I’ve had magical experiences on the banks of the Elk, the Buffalo, the Hiwassee, and beyond. But they were magical because they were safe, respectful, and well-executed. Following these riverbank bonfire safety tips means you can relax and enjoy your time outdoors without worry.
So pack your kindling, grab some local firewood, bring your friends, and find a quiet spot along one of Tennessee’s many stunning rivers. Just be sure to plan wisely, protect the land, and leave the place better than you found it.
That’s how to make a fire worth remembering—and a tradition worth repeating.