A question came up a lot at the end of this season, and we’re guessing other hosts have asked this as well. Up to this point, we haven’t charged extra for firewood. Should we?
An abundant, dry supply is always available near the main firepit, complete with lighter, firestarters, and kindling. We even prep the fire in a covered pit next to the creek.
But as we get busier and busier, we’ve been asking ourselves, is this sustainable? On one hand, an amazing fire is a focal point of the camping experience and we wouldn’t want our guests to ever be without it. But on the other hand, wood costs money, time, and labor to provide. Some guests decide not to have a fire at all while others burn through a quarter of a face cord. Should we be doing something to balance this out?
In this blog we explore the practical, financial, and guest-experience sides of this decision.
The Role of Firewood in the Glamping Experience
It helps to remember why firewood matters so much.
At a traditional campground, guests expect to rough it a little — chopping or hauling their own wood might even be part of the fun. But glamping is different. Guests come for comfort, convenience, and atmosphere.
A warm campfire is often a centerpiece of the stay. It sets the tone for an evening that brings peace and quiet, time with friends, romance – whatever guests are looking for. It’s a place to cook, connect, and enjoy nature without sacrificing luxury.
In that sense, firewood isn’t just another supply — it’s part of the experience. The question becomes: do you build it into your nightly rate, or make it an optional extra?
The Case for Providing Firewood for Free
Many glampsite owners (like us) start out offering complimentary firewood, especially when they’re small or just opening. It’s an easy way to add charm and hospitality to a new site. Here are the advantages:
1. Guest Satisfaction and Positive Reviews
Nothing delights a guest more than arriving to find a neat stack of dry wood ready to go. It’s a thoughtful touch that says you’ve gone the extra mile.
Free firewood can boost reviews, encourage repeat bookings, and make your glampsite stand out from competitors who nickel-and-dime for every amenity.
2. Simpler Guest Experience
Including firewood removes one logistical step for your guests. They don’t have to wonder where to get it, how much to bring, or whether they can collect it on-site (which might be restricted). It simplifies their trip planning and contributes to a more relaxed stay.
3. Perceived Value
Even a small gesture like free firewood can make your overall offering feel top shelf. It’s similar to free breakfast at a bed and breakfast — guests know it costs something, but they appreciate the gesture of including it.
4. Minimal Impact for Small Operations
If your glampsite has only a few cabins or tents and your guests burn a manageable amount, the cost may be small enough to absorb. Especially if you have access to your own downed wood or can source locally at low cost, the expense may not justify complicating the guest experience.
The Case for Charging for Firewood
On the other hand, offering unlimited free firewood can quickly get expensive — or even unsustainable — as your glampsite grows. Here’s why you might want to start charging.
1. Firewood Costs Add Up
Buying seasoned, pest-free firewood can cost anywhere from $5 to $10 per bundle wholesale — it costs us $75 a face cord but the price and the labor still add up.
If your guests tend to build large or multiple fires, costs can escalate fast. For us, this varies from group to group, and usage jumps later in the season when the nights get cooler. Charging helps offset this and ensures fair use.
2. Discourages Waste
When firewood is unlimited and free, guests sometimes burn more than they need — or leave half-burned logs behind. Charging per bundle encourages more responsible use and less waste, keeping your costs and cleanup manageable.
3. Covers Labor and Delivery
Supplying firewood can get labor intensive. There’s time involved in cutting, stacking, drying, and hauling it to cabins or tents. Charging a small fee compensates you for the effort.
4. Keeps You Compliant
Depending on your location, you may have restrictions on moving or cutting firewood due to pest control regulations (like the Emerald Ash Borer). Where we’re located in Upstate New York, wood that isn’t certified heat-treated (certified insect- free) can’t be transported further than 50 miles.
Finding the Right Balance: Hybrid Models
Many successful glamping hosts find a middle ground between free and paid firewood options. Here are a few models that work well:
1. The Starter Bundle Model
Provide one complimentary bundle of firewood per night or per stay, and sell additional bundles at a set price.
- Example: “One complimentary bundle included; additional bundles available for $6 each.”
This satisfies guests’ expectations while still covering costs for heavier users.
2. The All-Inclusive Premium Rate
Build the average cost of firewood into your nightly rate.
- Example: If guests typically burn $10 worth of wood per night, raise your rate by $10.
This approach keeps your listing clean and simple — no upsells or payment complications — while ensuring you’re not losing money.
3. The On-Demand Option
Offer wood as an optional add-on at booking or upon arrival.
- Example: Guests can pre-purchase “Firewood for Your Stay” as an upgrade package.
This model is great for online booking systems, and guests appreciate the flexibility.
4. The Self-Service Kiosk
If your property allows it, set up a small covered rack or shed where guests can grab wood on the honor system.
- Example: “$5 per bundle – Venmo or cash in the box.”
It’s convenient for both you and your guests, and it adds a rustic charm that fits the glamping vibe.
Pricing Your Firewood
If you decide to charge, pricing needs to be fair, simple, and transparent. Here are a few tips:
- Research local campground prices. Campgrounds and convenience stores nearby typically sell bundles for $6–$10.
- Consider your costs. Factor in not just the raw wood, but your labor and delivery.
- Keep it round. Guests prefer easy pricing like $5 or $10 per bundle.
- Make it easy to pay. Accept cash, Venmo, or card payments through your booking platform. The easier it is, the more likely they’ll buy instead of bringing their own.
- Label your bundles. Make sure your bundles are neatly wrapped or stacked, so guests feel they’re getting value for their money.
How Firewood Policies Affect Guest Behavior
Your approach to firewood can subtly influence how your guests use and respect your property.
- Free and unlimited wood might encourage large bonfires, higher risk of sparks, and more cleanup.
- Charging or limiting supply tends to make guests more cautious, using their fires thoughtfully and keeping them contained.
- Clear rules about fire safety, wood use, and quiet hours help everyone enjoy a pleasant experience.
Make sure you include your firewood policy in your guest welcome guide and booking description — transparency goes a long way.
Marketing the Firewood Experience
If you do decide to include or sell firewood, make it part of your glampsite’s charm. You could:
- Advertise “Complimentary starter bundle of seasoned local hardwoods included” — this sounds high-end and eco-conscious.
- Offer fire kits with wood, kindling, matches, and s’mores ingredients for an all-in-one upgrade.
- Post photos of campfires in your marketing — they’re emotionally powerful and sell the experience.
Guests aren’t just buying firewood — they’re buying the camping experience.
Safety and Liability Considerations
Whether you charge for firewood or not, fire safety is essential. Always include:
- A metal or stone fire ring at each site.
- A fire extinguisher or water bucket nearby.
- Clear fire rules posted at every camp.
- A “no outside wood” policy if you’re in a pest-restricted area.
If you allow guests to use your wood, make sure it’s dry and seasoned to prevent excessive smoke or sparks.
Safety keeps your insurance low, your property safe, and your reviews glowing.
The Bottom Line: Should You Charge for Firewood?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your size, budget, guest expectations, and brand positioning.
- If you’re a small, boutique glampsite with premium rates and personalized service, including firewood adds charm and value.
- If you’re larger or budget-focused, charging ensures fairness and sustainability.
- If you’re somewhere in between, a hybrid model — complimentary starter wood, with extra for sale — often works best. (This is our plan for next year – we’ll keep you posted!)
The goal is to balance guest satisfaction with profitability. Firewood may seem like a small thing, but how you handle it can influence your reputation, reviews, and revenue.
If you can create an experience where guests light their fire, settle in with a drink, and think, “They thought of everything,” — you’ve made the right call.
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Photo by Valentyna Kobrina on Unsplash
