Picture this: you’re parked in a quiet forest, the air crisp and cool, the stars twinkling above your RV. Inside, a warm glow flickers from a tiny wood burning stove, filling your space with heat and a sense of home. I’ve spent years exploring RV camping, from cross-country road trips to weekend getaways, and nothing has transformed my experience quite like installing a tiny wood burning stove. It’s not just about staying warm—it’s about creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere that makes every trip unforgettable. In this article, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about tiny wood burning stoves for RVs, from why they’re a game-changer to how to choose and install one safely. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a casual camper, let’s dive into why this small addition can make a big difference.
Why Choose a Tiny Wood Burning Stove for Your RV?
When I first considered heating options for my RV, I thought about propane heaters or electric units. But after trying a tiny wood burning stove, I was hooked. These stoves are more than just heaters; they bring a unique charm to RV living. The crackle of burning wood, the warm glow of the fire, and the ability to dry out wet gear quickly—it’s like bringing a piece of a cozy cabin into your RV.
A tiny wood burning stove is perfect for RVs because it’s compact, efficient, and eco-friendly. Unlike propane heaters, which can produce moisture and require frequent refills, wood stoves offer dry heat that keeps your RV comfortable and condensation-free. Plus, wood is often easier to source in rural areas, making it a practical choice for off-grid adventures. I’ve found that the ambiance alone makes it worth it—there’s nothing like sipping coffee by the fire on a chilly morning.
However, it’s not all rosy. Wood stoves take up space, require regular maintenance, and demand careful installation to be safe. But for me, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, especially for cold-weather camping. Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s right for you.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of a Tiny Wood Burning Stove
To give you a clear picture, I’ve put together a table comparing the pros and cons of using a tiny wood burning stove in an RV. This is based on my own experience and countless conversations with other RVers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cozy Ambiance: Creates a warm, homey atmosphere with a real fire. | Space Requirements: Takes up more room than propane or electric heaters. |
| Dry Heat: Reduces condensation and dries wet clothes quickly. | Maintenance: Requires regular ash removal and chimney cleaning. |
| Fuel Availability: Wood is often easy to find in rural areas. | Fuel Storage: Firewood takes up space and needs to be kept dry. |
| Eco-Friendly: Burns renewable fuel, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. | Safety Concerns: Requires strict adherence to safety protocols. |
| Off-Grid Capability: No electricity or propane needed. | Installation Complexity: Needs proper venting and heat shielding. |
| Long Burn Time: Some models burn for up to 8 hours. | Learning Curve: Tending a fire takes practice to master. |
From my experience, the dry heat is a game-changer. During a winter trip in Colorado, my tiny stove dried out my soaked ski gear in just a couple of hours, something a propane heater struggled to do. But I’ll be honest—emptying the ash pan and sourcing dry wood can be a hassle, especially on longer trips. It’s a trade-off, but one I’m happy to make for the warmth and charm.
Choosing the Right Tiny Wood Burning Stove for Your RV
Picking the right stove can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. I spent weeks researching before settling on my stove, and I’m glad I took the time. Here’s what you need to consider to find the perfect fit for your RV.
Size and Heat Output
The size of your RV matters. Most tiny wood stoves are designed for spaces between 100 and 200 square feet, which covers most vans and smaller RVs. I have a 20-foot camper, and a 3kW stove keeps it plenty warm. For larger RVs, you might need a 4kW or 5kW model. Check the stove’s BTU output—6,000 to 14,000 BTUs is typical for small stoves. Too big, and you’ll overheat; too small, and you’ll be chilly.
Material and Build Quality
I opted for a cast iron stove over a steel one. Cast iron retains heat longer, so my RV stays warm even after the fire dies down. Steel stoves are lighter, which is great for smaller vans, but they cool off faster. Look for a stove with a firebrick-lined combustion chamber for better heat retention and efficiency.
Burn Time and Fuel Efficiency
Burn time was a big factor for me. Some stoves, like the Kimberly, can burn for up to 8 hours, meaning I don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night to add wood. Compressed logs, like BIO BLOCKS, are my go-to because they burn longer and produce less soot. Check if the stove has adjustable air intakes for better control over the burn rate.
Design and Features
I love a stove with a glass window—it lets me watch the flames, which adds to the cozy vibe. Some stoves, like the Cubic Mini, have a cooktop surface, so I can heat up soup or coffee without using my RV’s stove. Portability is another plus. The Winnerwell Nomad, for example, is easy to store when not in use, which is great for part-time campers.
Certification and Safety
Safety is non-negotiable. Look for stoves that are EPA- or CSA-certified for clean burning and efficiency. My stove came with a certification that gave me peace of mind, especially when dealing with campground regulations. You’ll also want a model with clear installation guidelines to meet safety standards.
Top Tiny Wood Burning Stoves for RVs
After trying a few models and talking to other RVers, here are my top picks for tiny wood burning stoves. Each one has its strengths, depending on your needs.
- Kimberly Wood Stove: This is a premium option with an 8-hour burn time and only 6 inches of clearance needed. It’s pricey, but the efficiency and compact size make it worth it for full-time RVers. I tested it in sub-zero temperatures, and it kept my van toasty.
- Cubic Mini Wood Stove (Cub): Perfect for small spaces, this steel stove is lightweight and affordable. It’s ideal for vans under 100 square feet but struggles to heat larger RVs overnight.
- Dwarf 4k by Tiny Wood Stove: This cast iron stove balances size and power. It’s what I use in my 20-foot camper, and it heats up quickly with a 4-6 hour burn time. The cooktop is a bonus for morning coffee.
- Winnerwell Nomad: A portable option that’s great for occasional use. I love that I can store it away when not in use, and the window venting option means no permanent roof modifications.
- Hobbit Stove: A cast iron favorite for its durability and heat retention. It’s a bit larger, so it’s best for RVs with more space. I’ve seen it in Airstreams, and it looks stunning.
Installing a Tiny Wood Burning Stove in Your RV
Installing my stove was a project, but it was worth every minute. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my experience to help you get it right.
Planning the Location
Finding the right spot is key. I placed my stove near the dinette for easy access, but you’ll need to check for clearance from combustible materials. Most stoves require 6-18 inches of space from walls, depending on whether you use heat shields. Avoid slide-out areas, as they complicate venting.
Ventilation and Chimney Setup
A proper chimney is critical for safety and performance. I used double-wall insulated flue pipes to reduce clearance needs and prevent creosote buildup. Roof exits are ideal for better draft, but I went with a window insert to avoid cutting a hole in my RV’s roof. A silicone pipe boot sealed it perfectly. Make sure to include a rain cap to protect the flue when not in use.
Air Intake and Ventilation
RVs are airtight, so you need an air vent for combustion. I cut a 100mm hole in the floor behind my stove, checking first to avoid wiring or fuel lines. This keeps the fire burning steadily without pulling air from inside the RV.
Safety Measures
Safety is everything. I installed a carbon monoxide alarm, smoke detector, and fire extinguisher near the stove. Heat shields are a must—my stove came with a bottom shield, and I added a wall shield extending 200mm above the stove. A 12mm-thick hearth protruding 225mm in front protects the floor.
Tools and Installation
Cutting the hole for the flue was nerve-wracking, but a steel nibbler attachment for my drill made it easy. It cost me about $25 and cut a clean 150mm hole. The whole setup, including the stove and flue parts, cost around $1,500, but prices vary based on the model and accessories.
Maintaining Your Tiny Wood Burning Stove
Maintaining my stove is part of the routine now, and it’s not as hard as it sounds. Here’s what I do to keep it in top shape.
Cleaning the Ash Pan
I empty the ash pan after every few burns. It’s messy but quick—just scoop the ashes into a metal container and dispose of them safely. Never dump hot ashes, as they can start a fire.
Chimney Maintenance
Creosote buildup in the chimney can be dangerous. I clean my flue every month during heavy use with a pipe brush. Double-wall pipes help reduce buildup, but regular cleaning is still a must.
Sourcing and Storing Fuel
Dry wood is essential. I learned the hard way that green wood produces too much smoke and fills the RV with a haze. I use kiln_planes: If you have an image generation tool, I can generate an image for you.