Our Top-Selling River Trip Item? LavaBox

LavaBox portable campfire

LavaBox is the original ammo can fire pit, and is quickly becoming a top-selling  river trip item at CKS Online.

LavaBox is a patent-pending, award-winning propane campfire inside a new, authentic military ammo can. It's portable, safe, easy to use, and designed by Colorado paddlers. This portable fire pit is fueled by propane and can be used during fire bans (check with authorities first), making it the perfect addition to any river runner's gear collection.

Lavabox portable campfire

LavaBox Vs. Other Fire Pans


  • No smoke
  • No embers
  • No wood to collect
  • Can last all night
  • Passes fire restrictions

Long story short, LavaBox's portable campfires offer simplified camping; the last thing you want to do after a long day of paddling is carry wood across unstable sand up to a fire pan, spend your precious time completing the necessary chore of building and stoking a fire, or stay up late waiting for coals to burn out evenly. 

Designed tough by raft guides, the LavaBox prevents all of the complicated issues listed above. It is portable, easy, and safe to use during fire bans. 

It's Portable

Want this on your next river trip? All you'll need is a heavy-duty cam strap. The LavaBox Tabletop is under 10 pounds and even fits inside the NRS Canyon Camping Dry Box.

It's Safe

The fire stays fully contained in the ammo can. Because there's no wood, there are no embers and no smoke. Propane burns clean and efficiently. It's a game changer. 

It's Easy

Like we said - camping, simplified. All you have to do is turn on the gas and light it. There's nothing extra you need to bring or collect, and no clean up needed or ashes to pack out.

Want to see how easy it is? Skip down to the next section.

Playing Music at Night Around a Lavabox

How to use your LavaBox

  1. Remove cap and lid from ammo can. 
  2. Be sure the valve on the gas source and regulator are in the OFF position.
  3. Connect the regulator to the gas source. If using the adapter for a 1LB canister, connect the adapter to the regulator and then to 1LB tank.
  4. Connect the hose to campfire. Hand-tighten 3/8s connection until secure.
  5. If using any tank besides the 1LB tank, open the gas valve--NOT the regulator.
  6. Test gas flow by turning the regulator on and off. Listen for the sound of gas flow.
  7. Locate the first outlet hole in burner. It is the hole closest to the hose/can connection inside the can.
  8. Using a long lighter (like the one included with your campfire), light the first hole while slowly turning on the gas at the regulator.
  9. Adjust the height of fire at the regulator.
  10. Enjoy!
Lavabox up close

Do you need to clean or care for your LavaBox?

Little care is required for your LavaBox.  With very heavy use, dump out your LavaBox occasionally to remove soot from the body of the box. You can also wipe out the inside of LavaBox if so desired. 

Is a LavaBox Dangerous?

When used correctly, a LavaBox is one of the safest fire pit options available to paddlers today.


 

To use your LavaBox safely, ensure that you:

  • Use ONLY on a level, stable, non-combustible surface like bricks, concrete or dirt or an established fire ring. Do NOT use this appliance on any surface that will burn or melt like wood, asphalt, vinyl, or plastic.
  • Remove the cap and detach the the lid fully.
  • Never use a LavaBox as a heater indoors and keep a minimum clearance of 10 feet (3 m) from the sides, front and back of the LavaBox to ANY construction. Never, ever cover the LavaBox.
  • Your LavaBox will be hot during and after use. Use insulated oven mitts or gloves for protection from hot surfaces.
  • In the event the appliance has been exposed to water, tilt the appliance forward and allow water to drain from the burner before attempting to ignite.
  • Never leave your LavaBox unattended and only allow adults to operate the LavaBox. 
  • Before attaching the propane canister check to make sure all your valves are in the OFF position and that the hose is in good working condition.
  • Make sure all fittings are snuggly attached.
  • Always light your LavaBox on the lowest setting and use a long lighter and light at the first hole on the burner closest to the gas inlet.
  • Always check with local law enforcement regarding fire restrictions and be cool.

Why We Love It

LavaBox products can provide light and warmth all night long (cue Lionel Richie song). They are made from brand new cans that are coated with a high heat paint that can withstand about 1200F... meaning this thing can last. It's mostly water-tight, making it ideal for river trips. Even better? It'll float if you flip your rig. If your LavaBox does take a swim, simply dump out what minimal water collected inside of it and dry it out before use. LavaBox products are safe to use during most fire-bans. Generally, the LavaBox meets or exceeds Stage 1 and Stage 2 fire restriction requirements. Be sure to check with your local authorities if you are concerned. 

LavaBox is designed and run by fellow river enthusiasts. They are serious adventurists who realized that the fire situation at camp could just be done better.

Don't Forget About These