Spirit of 1876 Podcast – Episode 2 with Josh from LavaBox

Campfires have always been at the heart of outdoor adventures. They’re where stories are shared, meals are cooked, and long days on the trail come to a close. But in many parts of the western United States, increasing wildfire restrictions have made traditional wood fires difficult—or impossible—to enjoy.

In Episode 2 of the Spirit of 1876 Podcast, Mike from Spirit of 1876 sits down with Josh, the founder of LavaBox, to talk about how a simple idea during a rafting trip turned into one of the most innovative portable propane campfires for overlanding and camping.

This conversation dives into the origins of the brand, the inspiration behind the design, and how LavaBox became a go-to solution for campers who still want the campfire experience—even during fire bans.

From River Guide to Outdoor Innovator

Before launching LavaBox, Josh spent decades working in the outdoor industry as a professional river guide and adventurer. After years guiding rafting, kayaking, and climbing trips, he understood exactly what outdoor enthusiasts needed in the field.

One challenge kept coming up: campfires were disappearing from many campsites.

Wildfire restrictions across the western U.S. often prevent traditional wood fires, especially during dry summer months. For guides, campers, and overlanders, that meant losing one of the most important parts of outdoor culture.

Instead of accepting that reality, Josh started thinking about a solution.

The Idea That Sparked LavaBox

The concept for LavaBox started around a campfire conversation during a rafting trip.

Someone jokingly suggested putting a fire pit inside a military ammo can to make it durable enough for river trips. The idea stuck, and Josh immediately started experimenting with prototypes.

Within a week, he had built several versions of what would eventually become the LavaBox portable campfire.

The goal was simple:

• Make a portable campfire system
• Keep it durable enough for outdoor adventures
• Allow campers to use it safely during many fire restrictions

The result was a rugged propane fire pit contained inside a compact metal box that could travel almost anywhere.

Why Portable Campfires Are Changing Camping

Traditional campfires require wood, create smoke, and can throw sparks or embers that increase wildfire risk. LavaBox takes a different approach.

Using propane and a controlled burner system, it creates a clean-burning, contained flame designed for safe outdoor use.

A typical LavaBox setup includes:

• Propane-powered burner system
• Durable ammo-can style enclosure
• Ceramic fire stones
• Adjustable flame control
• Portable design for easy transport

Because the fire is contained and produces minimal sparks, portable propane campfires like LavaBox are often allowed in areas where wood fires are restricted.

For overlanders and campers, that means you can still enjoy a campfire experience while following safety regulations.

Built for Overlanding, Camping, and Adventure Travel

Portable campfires have become increasingly popular in the overlanding community, where mobility and compact gear are essential.

A LavaBox system works especially well for:

• Overland vehicle camping
• Desert and beach camping
• River rafting trips
• Campsites during fire bans
• Tailgating and backyard gatherings

Because the system packs down into a compact box, it fits easily into most overlanding rigs alongside other camping gear.

For many travelers, it has become a core piece of camp equipment, just like rooftop tents, recovery gear, and portable cooking systems.

From Garage Project to Outdoor Brand

Like many successful outdoor companies, LavaBox started small.

The first units were built in Josh’s garage and shared among friends and fellow adventurers. As word spread through the outdoor community, demand quickly grew.

Today, LavaBox has expanded into a full lineup of portable fire systems and accessories designed for outdoor use.

What started as a simple idea between friends has become one of the most recognized portable campfire solutions for campers and overlanders.

Why Campfires Still Matter

One of the biggest takeaways from the Spirit of 1876 Podcast conversation is that campfires are about more than heat or light.

They represent the social center of camp.

After a long day on the trail, people gather around the fire to cook, talk, and share stories. It’s a tradition that has existed for thousands of years—and one many adventurers don’t want to lose.

Portable campfires like LavaBox help bring that experience back in a responsible and safe way.

Listen to the Full Conversation

In Episode 2 of the Spirit of 1876 Podcast, Mike and Josh dive deeper into:

• The origin story behind LavaBox
• Early prototype designs
• Challenges of building an outdoor product brand
• How innovation happens in the overlanding community

It’s a great conversation for anyone interested in camping gear, overlanding equipment, or outdoor entrepreneurship.

Find LavaBox Campfire Systems at Spirit of 1876

If you're building the ultimate overland setup or simply want a safe portable campfire for your next camping trip, LavaBox systems are a great addition to your gear. 

At Spirit of 1876, we specialize in overlanding gear, rooftop tents, and premium camping equipment designed for real adventures.

Explore our selection of portable fire systems and outdoor gear to upgrade your next trip.