I tested portable pits, fire tables, and decorative fire glass so I could recommend options that actually work for backyard evenings, camping, and patios.
I spent time using portable burners at campgrounds, running tabletop fire pits on my patio, and swapping out lava rock for different fire glass to see what made the biggest practical difference. My goal was to find reliable, safe, and attractive gas fire options for different needs — from lightweight camping bowls to large table-style pits.
Across these picks I prioritized certified appliances, straightforward ignition, usable heat output, and setup details that affect everyday use: how they store propane, whether they come with cover and carry options, and how easy it is to change flame height or swap media like lava rock and fire glass.
I compared these by portability, ignition type, heat output (BTU), and the finish/media each one ships with so you can match the fire pit to how you plan to use it.
1. Outland Living Firebowl Deluxe (19-inch) – Best Portable Propane Pit
I liked this when I needed a compact, CSA-approved portable pit that beats campfire bans and packs easily for travel.
Why I picked it: Portable, CSA-certified, smokeless output and included carry/cover kit made it a practical campfire replacement.
Best for: Camping, RV trips, tailgating, and small patios where portability matters.
Very affordable travel-friendly option.
Pros
- Lightweight and very portable
- CSA-certified for burn-ban situations
- High 58,000 BTU output
- Includes cover, hose, and lava rocks
Cons
- Manual ignition only
- Small cooking surface if you want to roast
My take
I took the Outland Firebowl Deluxe on multiple campground trips and it delivered exactly what I wanted: a real flame without wood, ash, or smoke. The 58,000 BTU burner put heat where I needed it and the pre-attached 10-foot hose let me hide the propane tank out of sight.
Setup was trivial — the unit is ready to go out of the box — and the enamel-coated steel feels durable for travel. I appreciated the included lava rocks for the flicker effect and the cover plus carry kit made storing and transporting simple.
Because it’s CSA-approved, I was able to use it where open wood fires were banned at several parks. If you value pure portability and readiness for travel, this pit hits the mark; just bring a lighter or use the model with auto-ignition if you want instant starts.
2. Hiland Pacific Blend Fire Glass (10 lb) – Best Fire Glass Blend
I swapped lava rock for this recycled fire glass when I wanted a modern, jewel-like look and less mess.
Why I picked it: High-temp tempered glass that won’t melt and gives a striking, reflective flame.
Best for: Decorative fire pits and tables that use propane or natural gas.
Affordable way to upgrade pit aesthetics.
Pros
- Luminous, jewel-like appearance
- No ash, soot, or smoke
- High heat tolerance
- Covers burner hardware well
Cons
- Some chunks are larger than expected
- May need two bags for full coverage
My take
I replaced the lava rock in my patio pit with Hiland’s Pacific Blend and the transformation was immediate — the glass reflects the flames and produces a much cleaner visual than traditional stone.
Before first use I cleaned a sample with a vinegar solution as others suggested; that removed residue and stopped any tiny dust from spitting when the burner first warmed up. The glass held up to repeated high heat and didn’t pop or degrade.
One thing I learned: the pieces vary in size, so if you have a long burner you’ll want an extra bag to lay an even top layer and avoid flame gaps. For looks and low maintenance, though, this is my go-to when I want a dramatic display.
3. BALI OUTDOORS 28-inch Propane Fire Pit Table – Best Small Fire Table
I reached for this when I wanted a neat 2-in-1 table that doubles as a cozy burner with a stylish finish.
Why I picked it: Removable lid converts it to a usable table; decent heat and clean ignition for patios.
Best for: Small patios and decks where table functionality matters.
Midrange fire table with useful dual-purpose design.
Pros
- Removable lid becomes a coffee table
- Pulse ignition for easy starts
- Up to 50,000 BTU heating
- Sturdy steel construction
Cons
- May need a wind shield in breezy spots
- Included stones can crack under heavy heat
My take
I appreciate the 2-in-1 concept: the lid turns this fire pit into a solid table that I actually use between fires. When I pull the lid off the 50,000 BTU burner produces a satisfying flame that lights easily with the pulse ignition.
Assembly was straightforward — only a screwdriver — and the wicker panel look fits my patio set. The included blue glass stones look great, though I eventually swapped them out because heat caused some cracking; I recommend choosing tempered fire glass or lava rock underneath for longevity.
If you plan to use it in a windy location, add a glass wind shield with appropriate clearance. For me, it’s the right balance of style and performance for casual evening warmth.
4. BALI OUTDOORS 42-inch Rectangular Fire Table – Best Large Fire Table
I picked this when I needed a larger table-style pit that seats a group and doubles as a tabletop.
Why I picked it: Big ceramic tabletop, higher BTU output, and hidden propane storage make it a solid large-patio option.
Best for: Larger patios and group seating areas where table space matters.
Higher capacity, good value for a large fire table.
Pros
- Large ceramic tabletop
- Up to 60,000 BTU heat
- Built-in storage for tank
- Includes lid and glass stones
Cons
- Heavier to move
- Some included stones may break from heat
My take
When I wanted something for bigger gatherings, the 42-inch Bali table delivered — the ceramic top is sturdy and looks upscale, and removing the lid reveals a wide burner that spreads flame along the rectangular ring.
Assembly was easy and the unit feels solid once assembled. The 60,000 BTU capability warmed me and guests on cool evenings, though I’d temper expectations for very cold nights; it’s best for mild to moderately cool weather.
I also liked the internal storage for a 20-lb tank to keep the setup tidy. As a note, I swapped the included decorative rocks after seeing some cracking under repeated heat, but that’s an easy aftermarket fix if you prefer different media.
5. Grisun Bahama Blend Fire Glass (1/2-inch) – Best Reflective Fire Glass
I used this glass when I wanted a bright, uniform look that reflects flame and keeps maintenance minimal.
Why I picked it: Tempered, reflective pieces that maintain color and won’t melt or fade over time.
Best for: Fire tables and pits where an upscale, sparkling finish is desired.
Affordable way to achieve a high-end look.
Pros
- Highly reflective and uniform
- Tempered for heat resistance
- No soot or ash
- No sharp shards in my bags
Cons
- 10 lb bag may not fill large pits
- May require cleaning before first use
My take
I bought several bags to create a bright, modern finish in my fire table and the Grisun glass really makes the flame pop. The pieces are consistently sized and, after a quick rinse, they produced a clean, sparkling effect that held up over multiple fires.
The tempered glass didn’t dull or discolor and it stayed free of soot, so cleanup has been almost zero. For larger burners plan for multiple bags; one 10-pound bag is great for topping a smaller bowl but won’t fully fill a large table.
6. Outland Living Firebowl 870 Auto-Ignition (19-inch) – Best Auto-Ignition Portable
I use this when I want the same portability as the Deluxe but with quick electronic ignition and no assembly required.
Why I picked it: Auto-ignition, portable design, and CSA approval make it effortless for travel and backyard use.
Best for: Campers and RVers who want instant starts without fiddling with lighters.
A step up in convenience from the manual model.
Pros
- Matchless auto-ignition
- Portable with carry and cover kit
- Strong 58,000 BTU output
- CSA-approved and durable
Cons
- Heavier than very small camp burners
- Electronic ignitor battery replacement possible
My take
I appreciated the auto-ignition on the Outland 870 — one push and the flame starts instantly, which is perfect for campsite evenings when I don’t want to fuss with matches. Heat output was impressive for a 19-inch bowl and it handled four people roasting s’mores without issue.
Build quality feels robust; the steel and stainless components survived outdoor storage and travel. The long fuel hose is convenient so I can store the tank out of sight. For me this model balances portability with the convenience of instant starting.
How I Choose a Natural Gas or Propane Fire Pit
Match the BTU and Size to Your Space
I look at BTU as a practical measure of useful heat — small portable bowls often advertise 50–60k BTU and work well for close seating, while larger tables at 60k or more are better for warming a group seated further away.
Don’t confuse listed BTU with how cozy the setup feels: burner shape and pit diameter affect how heat radiates to your legs and torso.
- Small pits (~19-inch) are portable and concentrate heat close to seated guests.
- Larger rectangular or 42-inch tables offer broader radiant warmth but are heavier to move.
Certification and Fuel Type
I always prefer CSA- or UL-certified appliances because they’re designed and tested to established safety standards — that matters when you’re using gas outdoors or where burn bans exist.
Decide whether you want propane portability or a permanent natural gas hookup. Many portable units offer conversion kits but check availability and installation needs.
- Portable propane is great for camping and temporary setups.
- Natural gas is cleaner for fixed installations and avoids tank storage.
Ignition System and Controls
I favor automatic or pulse ignitions for frequent use — push-button starts save time and frustration — but manual knobs are simpler and less to maintain.
Adjustable regulators and visible flame control let me dial heat up or down for comfort and fuel economy.
- Auto-ignition for convenience; manual for simplicity.
- Look for an adjustable regulator and a long hose for tank placement.
Choosing Between Lava Rock and Fire Glass
I choose lava rock for rugged use and to hide burners, but I prefer tempered fire glass for appearance and virtually no ash or soot. Fire glass also reflects flame for a more decorative look.
Clean new fire glass before first use to remove any dust. For visual coverage, plan to use enough weight to create a half-inch to one-inch top layer over the burner as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Fire glass gives a modern, reflective finish and low maintenance.
- Lava rock is affordable and copes well with repeated high heat cycles.
Materials, Weather Resistance, and Maintenance
I look for powder-coated or enamel-finished steel and stainless burners for corrosion resistance. Covers and carry kits extend service life for portable pits.
If you plan to leave a table outside, consider ceramic tops or protective coatings and plan to swap decorative stones if they show cracking.
- Stainless steel burners resist rust.
- Covers, carry bags, and storage compartments help protect units between uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fire glass with any gas fire pit?
I use tempered fire glass in both propane and natural gas pits, but I always check the pit manufacturer’s guidance: some burners need a thin top layer only and recommend lava rock underneath to protect the burner ports.
Do portable fire bowls require special permits during burn bans?
I found that CSA- or UL-certified propane fire pits are accepted in many areas during campfire restrictions, but I always check local rules before lighting a pit.
How do I maintain fire glass and prevent popping?
I rinse new fire glass to remove dust and avoid mixing untreated glass or stones that may trap moisture. Proper cleaning and using matched, tempered glass reduces the chance of popping.
Final Take
After hands-on testing I kept a portable Outland bowl for travel and a mid-sized fire table for my patio — they serve different needs but both made evenings more enjoyable and easier to manage than a wood fire.
If you want my short advice: pick a portable CSA-approved model for camping, choose a table-style unit for regular backyard use, and use tempered fire glass if appearance and low maintenance are priorities.
