
49 of the Best Campfire Guitar Songs! 🎸🏕️ | List of Campfire Songs on Guitar with Chords & Video Tutorials
Dakota WiengesShare
Want to impress your friends and keep the good vibes rolling through the evening with some good tunes?
We’ve compiled a list of the best campfire guitar songs to set the perfect mood for your next outdoor endeavor, whether that's a camping trip to one of our beautiful national parks or a simple backyard cookout. While this list is, of course, subjective, and we'd love for you to drop any additional recommendations in the comments, it's definitely a killer starting point for building a personal library of go-to campfire songs.
And to ensure your guitar is as adventure-ready as you are, check out our Wildtree Outdoor Guitar Straps for comfort, durability, and style.
Classic Rock & Folk Favorite Campfire Guitar Songs
1. Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
- Chords: Country Roads Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (beginner-friendly chord progression)
Often regarded as one of the best campfire guitar songs, John Denver’s heartfelt ode to rural comfort speaks to the universal pull of home. Its iconic chorus, filled with warmth and nostalgia, makes everyone around the fire feel welcome and united in simple longing.
2. Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd
- Chords: Wish You Were Here Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (simple chord shapes, iconic solo riff)
This introspective piece is among the best campfire songs on guitar for moments of reflective calm. Pink Floyd’s classic shimmers with subtle acoustic work and thoughtful lyrics, perfectly suiting the gentle crackle of a late-night fire.
3. American Pie – Don McLean
- Chords: American Pie Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Moderate (long structure and chord changes)
Another of the best campfire guitar songs, Don McLean’s epic ballad chronicles cultural milestones through vivid storytelling. Its rousing chorus ignites instant camaraderie, making it a favorite for high-spirited sing-alongs under the stars.
4. Hotel California – Eagles
- Chords: Hotel California Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Intermediate (barre chords, memorable solo)
Wrapped in mystery and metaphor, “Hotel California” is widely recognized as one of the best campfire songs on guitar thanks to its iconic melody and cryptic storytelling. The enchanting chords evoke an atmospheric vibe ideal for fireside performances.
5. The Weight – The Band
- Chords: The Weight Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (mostly open chords)
Also included in many lists of best campfire guitar songs, “The Weight” is a soulful reflection on collective burdens and unity. Its laid-back groove and memorable refrain provide a warm, communal spirit perfect for nights around the fire.
6. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Chords: Sweet Home Alabama Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Moderate (riff-based but manageable)
This Southern rock staple is a top pick for best campfire songs on guitar, sparking lively sing-alongs with its unmistakable riffs. Its classic chorus and energetic vibe instantly lift the mood around any crackling fire.
7. Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival
- Chords: Bad Moon Rising Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (straightforward chord progression)
Balancing playful energy with foreboding undertones, “Bad Moon Rising” certainly ranks among the best campfire guitar songs. CCR’s easy-strum classic gets everyone clapping and singing, despite its subtle ominous hint.
8. Wild Horses – The Rolling Stones
- Chords: Wild Horses Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (some nuanced strumming)
Gentle and introspective, “Wild Horses” is a prime example of good campfire songs on guitar for those seeking a reflective mood. Its soft acoustic arrangement and pensive lyrics encourage a calm hush among listeners.
9. Space Oddity – David Bowie
- Chords: Space Oddity Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Moderate (unique chord voicings)
Bowie’s cosmic narrative of isolation remains a staple among the best campfire guitar songs for its dreamy progression and evocative storytelling. Perfect under starry skies, it sparks imaginations and hushed wonder.
10. Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty
- Chords: Free Fallin’ Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (great for beginners)
Capturing both carefree and wistful emotions, “Free Fallin’” is also one of the good campfire songs on guitar that even novices can strum with ease. Its memorable chorus ensures everyone can join in.
’90s & Alternative Rock Campfire Songs for Guitar
11. Wonderwall – Oasis
- Chords: Wonderwall Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (familiar strumming, a couple of chord voicings)
A Britpop favorite, “Wonderwall” is considered by many as one of the best campfire guitar songs thanks to its instantly recognizable progression and sincere lyrics. Its emotive melody bonds groups in sing-along harmony.
12. Say It Ain’t So – Weezer
- Chords: Say It Ain’t So Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Moderate (shifts between clean and powerful strumming)
Weezer’s emotionally charged track deals with family strife beneath its catchy guitar hooks. It’s also a noteworthy pick if you’re seeking good campfire songs on guitar, eliciting both conversation and collective crooning.
13. Jumper – Third Eye Blind
- Chords: Jumper Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (straightforward but some rhythmic nuances)
Encouraging empathy and hope, “Jumper” is a lesser-known but still among the best campfire guitar songs. Its lively tempo and uplifting message spark supportive camaraderie under flickering firelight.
14. 1979 – Smashing Pumpkins
- Chords: 1979 Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Intermediate (a few non-standard chord voicings)
Layered with dreamy nostalgia, “1979” fondly recalls carefree youth. Many consider it an underrated gem among best campfire songs guitar experiences, inviting wistful reflection on simpler times.
15. Don’t Speak – No Doubt
- Chords: Don’t Speak Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Moderate (some nuanced chord changes)
Gwen Stefani’s vocals bleed heartbreak and silent goodbyes, wrapped in a catchy pop-rock melody. An acoustic approach draws out the song’s raw vulnerability, making it poignant around glowing embers.
16. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) – Green Day
- Chords: Good Riddance Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (popular beginner piece but some quick chord transitions)
A farewell ballad for life’s transitions, “Good Riddance” blends gentle acoustic strums with reflective lyrics. It’s a moving choice for closing a chapter or simply cherishing shared memories around the fire.
17. Everlong (Acoustic) – Foo Fighters
- Chords: Everlong Acoustic Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Intermediate (some fast chord transitions and palm muting)
An emotional declaration of unwavering love, the acoustic version of “Everlong” highlights the tenderness behind the rock edge. Its stripped-down style carries a captivating intensity ideal for quieter nights by the fire.
18. Nutshell – Alice in Chains
- Chords: Nutshell Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Intermediate (fingerpicking elements, nuanced dynamics)
Dark yet deeply personal, “Nutshell” exposes human frailty through haunting acoustic lines. Its raw honesty resonates powerfully in an intimate setting, offering solemn connection by the flames.
19. Under the Bridge – Red Hot Chili Peppers
- Chords: Under the Bridge Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Intermediate–Advanced (fingerstyle intro, barre chords)
This introspective journey through isolation and yearning for community resonates with anyone who’s felt alone in a crowd. Its iconic intro riff instantly draws focus, creating a reflective hush among listeners.
20. Creep – Radiohead
- Chords: Creep Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (straightforward chord pattern)
The anthem for feeling like an outcast, “Creep” lays bare insecurities over a simple yet striking chord progression. Its raw, confessional style suits a pensive campfire moment when hearts are open.
Feel-Good Sing-Along Campfire Songs on Guitar
21. Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond
- Chords: Sweet Caroline Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (simple chords, big choruses)
Infectious and upbeat, Neil Diamond’s sing-along classic unites voices in pure feel-good fun. From the first “Bum! Bum! Bum!” it guarantees bright smiles and communal celebration around the fire.
22. Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
- Chords: Brown Eyed Girl Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (syncopated strum pattern)
The quintessential sunny-day nostalgia track, “Brown Eyed Girl” enchants listeners with its breezy melody and youthful romance. Strumming it around a fire conjures memories of carefree summer moments.
23. Friends in Low Places – Garth Brooks
- Chords: Friends in Low Places Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (country-style chord progression)
An everyman’s anthem of camaraderie, this track stands out for its humor, humility, and rousing sing-along chorus. It’s a guaranteed icebreaker, perfect for forging new memories with old friends under starlight.
24. Proud Mary – Creedence Clearwater Revival
- Chords: Proud Mary Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (familiar chord shapes, fun strum)
Channeling the excitement of new horizons, “Proud Mary” is a driving CCR staple that sparks foot-stomping rhythm. It’s an ideal pick to jumpstart any fireside jam session with its energetic vibe.
25. Hey Jude – The Beatles
- Chords: Hey Jude Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (long outro, but basic chords)
An uplifting ballad that begins gently and crescendos into a communal chant of “Na-na-na” positivity. “Hey Jude” effortlessly transforms a group of listeners into a unified choir, fostering unforgettable togetherness.
26. Blowin' in the Wind – Bob Dylan
- Chords: Blowin' in the Wind Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (classic folk strumming)
Dylan’s timeless plea for introspection asks life’s enduring questions over a simple, folksy chord progression. Its reflective nature encourages contemplative silence between verses, especially under open skies.
27. Three Little Birds – Bob Marley
- Chords: Three Little Birds Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (simple reggae strum pattern)
Effortlessly relaxed, this reggae classic reassures that “every little thing is gonna be alright.” Its laid-back groove counters any worries, brightening the fireside with Bob Marley’s message of peace.
28. 500 Miles (I’m Gonna Be) – The Proclaimers
- Chords: I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (upbeat tempo, basic chords)
Defined by its sing-out-loud energy, “I’m Gonna Be” is an ode to boundless dedication. The repetitive chorus begs for group participation, making it a boisterous, heart-pounding campfire anthem.
29. I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
- Chords: I’m Yours Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (basic open chords, relaxed strum)
A breezy pop song that exudes the joy of living in the moment, “I’m Yours” is a warm invitation to sing along and smile. Its tropical vibe and catchy melody enliven any fireside gathering.
30. Chicken Fried – Zac Brown Band
- Chords: Chicken Fried Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (country rhythms, straightforward chords)
Filled with Southern charm, “Chicken Fried” celebrates life’s simplest pleasures—family, good times, and country pride. It’s a cheerful, relatable sing-along that fits perfectly with the smell of woodsmoke.
Modern Favorites & Pop Hit Campfire Guitar Songs
31. Hey Ya! – Outkast
- Chords: Hey Ya! Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (steady strum, quick chord shifts)
An upbeat fusion of funk and pop that contrasts its catchy melody with underlying reflections on love’s challenges. Acoustic campfire versions highlight its cleverly honest lyrics beneath the bouncy exterior.
32. Drops of Jupiter – Train
- Chords: Drops of Jupiter Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Moderate (some barre chords, timing nuances)
Grand and spacey, “Drops of Jupiter” contemplates the wonder of someone’s journey away and back again. Under starry skies, its soaring chorus captures the interplay of heartbreak and hope.
33. Let Her Go – Passenger
- Chords: Let Her Go Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (fingerpicking optional)
Delicate and introspective, “Let Her Go” lays bare the sting of regret. Its gentle strumming and bittersweet melody blossom in the soft glow of a campfire, inviting quiet reflection.
34. Perfect – Ed Sheeran
- Chords: Perfect Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (basic chords, gentle strumming)
A modern love ballad brimming with tenderness, “Perfect” promises solace in togetherness. Soft acoustics and heartfelt lyrics forge a cozy vibe that’s tailor-made for hushed fireside moments.
35. Cigarette Daydreams – Cage the Elephant
- Chords: Cigarette Daydreams Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (gentle strumming pattern)
Reflective and quietly intense, this track delves into personal fears and the solace found in empathy. The softly driving melody lends itself to genuine connection and deep conversation under the stars.
36. Wake Me Up When September Ends – Green Day
- Chords: Wake Me Up When September Ends Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (arpeggiated intro, then strumming)
A poignant reflection on loss and the passage of time, this ballad gently crescendos into a cathartic release. Around a campfire, it provides moments of shared solace and introspection.
37. Boulevard of Broken Dreams – Green Day
- Chords: Boulevard of Broken Dreams Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (steady downstrum pattern)
Channeling loneliness and self-discovery, this modern rock anthem finds strength in vulnerability. The acoustic style highlights its reflective core, fostering empathy among those gathered in the firelight.
38. Ho Hey – The Lumineers
- Chords: Ho Hey Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (basic chords, easy tempo)
Warm and jubilant, “Ho Hey” weaves folk-pop charm through call-and-response vocals. Its bright energy and simple chord progression make it a magnet for cheerful group choruses.
39. Home – Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
- Chords: Home Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (simple yet playful strum)
Quirky, lighthearted, and brimming with love, “Home” celebrates the feeling of belonging wherever your loved ones are. Its call-and-response style creates an instant sense of unity around the fire.
40. Little Lion Man – Mumford & Sons
- Chords: Little Lion Man Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Moderate (quick chord changes, energetic strum)
Raw and driven by banjo-infused folk-rock, “Little Lion Man” addresses self-blame and the hope for improvement. Stripped down, its high-energy strumming and candid admissions evoke strong emotion around the fire.
Humorous, Nostalgic, or Novelty Campfire Songs
41. The Campfire Song Song – SpongeBob SquarePants
- Chords: The Campfire Song Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (lighthearted strumming, comedic delivery)
Silly and high-spirited, this SpongeBob sing-along is pure comedic chaos. It adds a burst of youthful fun to any gathering, guaranteeing laughs and a memorable group performance.
42. At a Medium Pace – Adam Sandler
- Chords: At a Medium Pace Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (simple chords; adult content)
Adam Sandler’s comedic flair meets surprising sweetness—though it’s definitely for mature audiences. Perfect for a night of playful irreverence, it’s sure to spark laughter and a few blushes.
43. You’ve Got a Friend in Me – Randy Newman
- Chords: You’ve Got a Friend in Me Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (jazzy flair, but still accessible)
Sweet and enduring, Randy Newman’s tune captures the spirit of unwavering friendship. Its lighthearted melody transcends generations, making it a wholesome pick for any fireside sing-along.
44. The Bare Necessities – The Jungle Book
- Chords: The Bare Necessities Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
-Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (fun, laid-back rhythm)
This carefree Disney classic sparks feel-good nostalgia and a reminder to enjoy life’s simple comforts. Its bouncy melody and playful lyrics naturally invite the group to sing along with childlike glee.
45. I’ll Make a Man Out of You – Disney’s Mulan
- Chords: I’ll Make a Man Out of You Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (dynamic vocals, straightforward chords)
Stirring and energetic, this Mulan favorite is all about motivation and self-belief. It translates surprisingly well to acoustic guitar, rallying the group into spirited chanting under the night sky.
Easy Acoustic Campfire Guitar Songs for Everyone
46. Riptide – Vance Joy
- Chords: Riptide Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (ukulele-friendly, simple chord shapes)
Whimsical and breezy, “Riptide” pairs playful ukulele chords with vivid storytelling. It instantly captivates a campfire group, encouraging them to hum along to its addictive chorus.
47. Banana Pancakes – Jack Johnson
- Chords: Banana Pancakes Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (light strumming, some barre chords)
Smooth and laid-back, “Banana Pancakes” gently urges us to forget the world’s demands and savor the moment. Its mellow vibe suits a slow, blissful night around crackling flames.
48. Stand by Me – Ben E. King
- Chords: Stand by Me Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy (classic progression, straightforward strum)
A soul-soothing pledge of loyalty, “Stand by Me” remains a timeless staple of companionship. Its memorable bass line and reassuring message unite campfire friends in a universal chorus.
49. Drift Away – Dobie Gray
- Chords: Drift Away Chords (Ultimate Guitar)
- Tutorial: YouTube Guitar Tutorial
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (relaxed chord flow, soulful feel)
Smooth and soulful, “Drift Away” pays homage to music’s healing influence. Its mellow groove and gentle refrain envelop listeners in an uplifting escape, perfect for closing out a fireside session.
Campfire songs have a unique power to unite friends, family, and strangers alike, creating lasting memories through melody and shared emotions. Whether you're seeking reflection, laughter, or heartfelt connection, these top campfire songs for guitar will undoubtedly enhance your next gathering around the fire. So pick up your guitar, gather close, and let the music ignite unforgettable moments!