Frank Kecseti and Alyson Kate Long, founders of PyreLogs, have spent enough time on the road as full-time RVers to know that building a perfect campfire isn’t always as effortless as it looks.
In an exclusive interview with Modern Campground, Kecseti and Long shared how the fire-building tool is helping campers create memorable experiences while offering campgrounds a practical way to boost guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Recognizing a common frustration among campers, especially newcomers, they set out to create a product that would remove the guesswork and bring back the joy of sitting around a crackling fire.
Unlike many fire products that require dedicated containers or fire structures, PyreLogs were intentionally designed to work within existing campground rings and firepits.
“Instead of replacing one vessel with another,” said Kecseti, “we created our product to work with what you’ve got.” The simple slot-and-tab assembly allows users to set up a pair of PyreLogs bases in just three minutes—no tools required.
One of the product’s key innovations is its airflow design, which directs oxygen to the base of the flames. This not only ensures a more reliable burn but also reduces the intimidation factor for beginners.
“They are compatible with any type of firewood and safe for use with fire starters,” Long noted, calling the setup “simple, reliable and beginner-friendly.”
The benefits go beyond ease of use. PyreLogs create an efficient burn meaning less wood is wasted and a stronger bed of coals is created—ideal for cooking or simply extending the warmth of an evening fire.
“Campgrounds will sell more firewood and help create core memories that solidify brand loyalty among campers,” Long said.
Made in North Carolina: A Local Approach to Quality and Trust
Kecseti and Long also see the product as solving a problem that’s crept into modern camping culture: the loss of traditional firecraft knowledge.
They pointed out that campground operators often have to step in to help guests build fires.
The journey from concept to market was both local and hands-on. PyreLogs are manufactured entirely within western North Carolina; in fact, the supply chain is just 155 miles total.
By keeping the production close to home, Kecseti and Long have built strong relationships with their manufacturing partners—relationships based on mutual trust and clear communication.
“We’ve created a strong brand by connecting with our partners and respecting their expertise,” he said.
To prepare for launch, the married couple and business partners, Frank and Alyson, tested their PyreLogs prototypes from Florida to Canada. This ensured real-world performance across a variety of environments and gained them first-hand feedback from neighboring campers.
“We wouldn’t buy something flimsy, cumbersome, or complicated, and we’ll never ask anyone else to buy it either,” Long added.
Durability was essential. PyreLogs are laser-cut from 12-gauge recycled American steel, which is then deburred and treated with black oxide to resist rust and scratches. The choice of American steel wasn’t just about strength—it was also about minimizing the environmental footprint and supporting local businesses. Each purchase supports five small businesses in the region.
From Beachfires to Backyard Moments: PyreLogs Builds Connection Through Flame
The two shared a personal moment that underscored the versatility of the product: having a beach campfire under a full moon.
“We got our permit, dug a sand pit, sat the PyreLogs inside, and had a beautiful burn with waves crashing in the background,” said Alyson, reflecting on a bucket-list experience made easier with their own creation.
The simplicity of PyreLogs belies the thoughtful engineering behind it. Kecseti said the greatest challenge was keeping the product simple while ensuring it could withstand repeated use outside.
Their experience living full-time in an RV has been central to every design decision. “It all comes back to space, weight, and reliability,” said Kecseti, noting the importance of making a product that works for all campers regardless of skill level or setting.
Campground Retail Integration
As PyreLogs continues to grow, campground retail integration is a top priority. Kecseti and Long are building relationships with camp store managers to explore not only wholesale opportunities but also potential rental programs.
“By giving campgrounds a way to simplify firemaking and sell more firewood,” Frank said, “PyreLogs has the potential to increase revenue while reintroducing firecraft skills to guests.”
He emphasized that every campground they’ve stayed in has become a point of contact. “We’ve had conversations with owners of every campground we’ve stayed in and have a long list of phone calls we are currently working through,” he said, showing a grassroots approach to outreach.
Looking to the future, PyreLogs is preparing to launch an affiliate program to support product testing and brand advocacy.
Long sees this as a way to expand their mission of outdoor inclusion. “We’ve both been told many versions of ‘You don’t look outdoorsy,’” she said, aiming to redefine what it means to be part of the outdoor community.
As campgrounds strive to attract new visitors and encourage longer stays, integrating products like PyreLogs into campground retail offerings can play a key role in improving both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Featured image by PyreLogs