Broken Arrow Backyard Fire Pit Ideas — Design Guide for Oklahoma Homeowners

A fire pit is one of the most-used outdoor living features in Broken Arrow — and one of the most versatile. Whether you want a simple gathering spot for family evenings or an elaborate entertainment focal point surrounded by natural stone seating walls, the design possibilities are wide. At VistaScapes & Design, we build custom fire pits from natural stone, brick, and concrete masonry — here are the ideas and considerations to help you design yours.

Fire Pit Types for Broken Arrow Backyards

In-Ground Fire Pits

An in-ground or sunken fire pit creates a natural, organic focal point that feels rooted in the landscape. The firebox is set at or slightly below grade, often surrounded by a ring of natural stone or concrete block, with seating around the perimeter. This design is wind-friendly — the sunken position reduces the effect of Oklahoma’s variable winds on the flame.

Raised Fire Pit Tables

A raised fire pit built at counter or table height allows for gas fire media (glass, lava rock) and creates a gathering surface that doubles as a low table. Gas-powered raised fire pits are popular for entertaining because guests can gather around them at a comfortable height without sitting on the ground. The burner can be turned on and off instantly — no wood management required.

Built-In Fire Pit with Masonry Surround

The most durable and permanent option is a built-in fire pit constructed from natural stone, brick, or concrete block on a proper concrete footing. We design these as integrated elements of the patio design — the fire pit is part of the hardscape from the beginning, not an afterthought added later.

Linear Fire Features

A linear (rectangular) gas fire feature creates a modern, architectural look that is dramatically different from traditional round fire pits. Long burner troughs filled with glass or lava rock run along a low stone or concrete bench, creating a fire wall effect. These work particularly well in contemporary home designs.

Seating Wall Integration

One of the most popular design approaches for fire pits in Broken Arrow is to integrate a circular or semi-circular seating wall into the fire pit surround. A natural stone or CMU block seating wall at 18-20 inches tall creates built-in bench seating that frames the fire, eliminates the need for portable chairs, and becomes a permanent feature of the backyard landscape.

We often cap seating walls with natural flagstone, which is comfortable to sit on, easy to clean, and visually connects the seating area to other stone elements in the yard.

Wood-Burning vs Gas Fire Pits in Broken Arrow

The wood-burning vs gas decision for fire pits mirrors the same considerations as for fireplaces:

• Wood-burning: Authentic experience, crackling sound, lower installation cost (no gas line needed), but requires ash management and is restricted in some HOA communities
• Gas: Instant on/off, no ash, clean operation, can be used in HOA communities that restrict wood-burning, integrates with fire glass or lava rock for a contemporary look

Natural Stone Options for Broken Arrow Fire Pits

• Oklahoma native stone (Choteau limestone, sandstone): Regional character, blends with the Oklahoma landscape, extremely durable
• Arkansas fieldstone: Beautiful rounded river stones, natural and organic character
• Flagstone (Oklahoma blue limestone, Pennsylvania bluestone): Excellent for capping, stepping, and accent work around the fire pit
• Granite boulders: Bold, dramatic element used as accent stones in naturalistic designs
• Brick: Traditional and durable, works well for a more formal garden aesthetic

Fire Pit Size Considerations

Sizing a fire pit correctly for the available space and number of users is important:

• Small gathering (4-6 people): 30-36 inch diameter fire pit, 8-10 foot diameter patio or clearing around it
• Medium gathering (6-10 people): 36-48 inch diameter fire pit, 12-14 foot diameter seating area
• Large entertaining: 48+ inch fire pit or elongated linear feature, 14+ foot seating zone

Allow at minimum 6-8 feet of clear space between the fire pit edge and any combustible structure (pergola posts, fencing, overhangs).

Oklahoma Code Requirements for Fire Pits

The City of Broken Arrow and surrounding Tulsa metro jurisdictions follow state fire codes that include setback requirements for open fire features from structures and property lines. Wood-burning fire pits may also require spark arrestors in certain locations. VistaScapes & Design builds all fire features to code.

Call us at 918-779-1317 to discuss your fire pit design for your Broken Arrow backyard. We will visit your property and help you design a fire feature that fits the space, the budget, and the way you want to use it.