We have been wanting to create a backyard firepit area for our family since we moved in, and we recently had an open weekend to finally get it done! This is a very doable version for beginners, and is a somewhat affordable project that you can use with family or friends for years to come. Below is our Step-by-Step DIY for how to build a backyard firepit with minimal time and tools!
Supplies:
(For a 43in diameter firepit with 9.5ft diameter gravel circle )
Firepit ring 28in inner diameter – $87
Concrete Blocks – 44 blocks – 4 layers of 11 blocks $2.5 per block – $110
Paver base – 12 bags – $6.5 per bag – $78
Standard gravel – 6 bags – $5 per bag – $30
Kolorscape Sand Pebbles – 13 bags $5.75 per bag – $75
Optional tool: Hand Tamper
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Total cost: $380
Step 1: Mark Your Firepit Layout
Start by choosing your ideal spot in your yard — ideally a flat, open area away from trees and structures.
- Drive a stake into the center of where you want the firepit to go.
- Tie a string to the stake and use it to trace a circle with marking paint. This will be the outer edge of your firepit area.
- Make sure the circle is the size you want before moving on.
Pro tip: Most backyard firepits range from 36–48 inches in diameter.
Step 2: Clear and Level the Ground
With your circle marked, it’s time to prep the area:
- Remove grass, rocks, and debris from inside the circle.
- Dig down 2–3 inches below ground level.
- Use a long level and a straight board (like a 2×4) to make sure the entire base is as flat as possible.
A level foundation ensures that your firepit is stable and safe once it’s built.
Step 3: Add a Drainage Hole
To avoid a soggy firepit after a rainstorm, you’ll need to give water somewhere to go:
- Dig a hole in the center of the circle, about 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep.
- Fill it to ground level with gravel.
This simple step helps your firepit drain properly and stay dry.
Step 4: Spread and Tamp a Paver Base
Now it’s time to build a stable foundation:
- Spread a 1-inch layer of paver base over the entire floor of your firepit area.
- Use a straight 2×4 to screed the surface evenly.
- Compact the base with a hand tamper, checking frequently for level.
Pay extra attention to the outer edge where your firepit walls will go — a level ring here is key for a solid build.
Step 5: Build the Firepit Walls
This is where the magic starts to take shape:
- Place your metal firepit ring in the center to guide your layout.
- Lay the first row of firepit blocks tightly around the ring.
- Once the first layer is complete and level, remove the ring and stack additional layers of blocks as needed (typically 3–4 layers high).
- Insert the metal ring back into place once your walls are complete.
Tip: Many DIY firepit kits include blocks and a metal ring that fit perfectly together.
Step 6: Fill the Interior with Gravel
To protect the firepit walls from heat and improve airflow:
- Fill the interior of your firepit with several inches of gravel, stopping just below the fire ring.
- This layer helps with heat distribution and keeps your firepit in top shape over time.
Step 7: Add Finishing Touches
To give your firepit a polished, professional look:
- Spread 1–2 inches of decorative gravel around the outside of the firepit.
- Tamp the gravel down evenly for a clean and cohesive surface.
This creates a safe, fire-resistant zone around the pit!
This ended up being a whole family project as all of the kids wanted to help. It was a good one to get them involved in even though it may have extended the time to get it done;) We have already used this spot multiple times! We want to remove some of the plants to make a spot for a few more chairs, and eventually we may add pavers!
We hope this was helpful, and let us know if you have any questions! We shared a step by step video here in case that helps!
