A campfire is perfect for providing warmth, cooking, and also that great feeling of sitting around a cracking fire in the dark.
Please remember SAFETY at all times. Below are a few ideas on building a fire, however it is only a guide.  Be sure that there is an Adult leader present at all times when building a fire.  

Choose your spot:

Many camp sites have designated areas for camp fires - otherwise, you need to find a very flat and spacious area. Of course, you also need to ask the relevant authority for permission to light the fire.
Never light a fire on grass. Instead, turf an area and lay metal sheets inside, or build your fire on a crate. If you are preparing an area which will be in constant use, and have permission, pave the camp-fire spot.
A small woodpile may be needed, as will a good supply of water. Keep buckets of water available and water carriers ready to control the fire if necessary.

Once you have your site, the space available will determine the size of the fire. It's best to start small, as a fire will always end up bigger than anticipated. You can always feed it later if it is dying out too early.
Try to find dry wood and cut odd branches to size. Never use a live "green" tree.  The first layers should be of solid logs, which will burn slowly. The best method of lighting a fire is to use a generous amount of kindling, and fire-lighters if necessary, surrounded by a wigwam of hawthorn.
This is best situated in the middle of the fire, on the solid base already constructed. Build a frame of wood around it, with branches in pairs becoming thinner as they reach the top. Do not crowd the anticipated flames.

Successful camp-fire building takes practice and patience.

Clearing up:

This is your chance to burn any garbage (biodegradable only). Then leave the fire to burn itself out.
When the fire has burned down to the hot embers, pour on cold water and leave it until the morning.
Every site has its own policy on what to do with the ash. Make sure you know whether it is to be scattered, buried or put in a special pit.

Finally, check that the site looks just the same as it did when you arrived. 

Remember, always have an Adult leader present.

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