The BioLite CampStove burns wood, pine needles, or other combustible organic material, all while producing electricity on the side. Amy and Dave Freeman put it to the test for 3 months in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area
My wife and I have been exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for the past 8 months. During that time, our only direct fossil fuel usage has been white gas for our MRS Dragonfly stove.
About 3 months ago, we had a BioLite CampStove ($130) sent in with a resupply. It has proven to be an effective wood-burning stove that is fun to use, boils water quickly, and helps keep our headlamps, phones, and other small electronics charged. Plus it has reduced our fossil fuel usage by 75% or more.
Long-Term Test & Review: BioLite CampStove
We were a little skeptical before we tried BioLite because it looked like a flashy piece of gear that might not live up to the hype. After trying it we were really impressed and we cook almost all our meals with the BioLite CampStove now. Over the last few months, we have learned a few tips and tricks.
Gather Proper Fuel
The ideal fuel for the stove are 3- or 4-inch pieces of wood that range in size from smaller than your pinky to a little bigger than your thumb. It is important to have dry wood. Green wood, or slightly wet wood will burn once you get the stove going, but it is harder to keep the fire going and it takes more constant tending to cook effectively. Do yourself a favor and gather some good, dry wood.
Lighting the BioLite CampStove
Woodburning Stove: Cooking & Boiling Water
Charging From the BioLite CampStove
Final Thoughts
BioLite CampStove Specs
- Fuel: Renewable biomass (twigs, pinecones, wood pellets)
- Weight: 2.06 lbs (33 oz)
- Charging Time: 20 minutes of charging provides 60 minutes of talk time. Charging times vary by device.
- Fire Quality: 1.6 oz (46 grams) of wood to boil 1 liter of water
- Fire Power Output: 3.4 kW (LO), 5.5 kW (HI)
- Packed Size: Height: 8.25 inches (209.6 mm) Width: 5 inches (127 mm)
- Compatible Devices: Powers most USB-chargeable devices