THE PACKFIRE COMMUNITY: Eric Bunting
Eric Bunting is a professional photographer known for capturing the raw beauty of outdoor landscapes, adventure, and the natural world. Based in Philipsburg, Montana, he operates Revealing Earth, a photography business rooted in the heart of the Montana Rockies. Surrounded by vast wilderness, Bunting has positioned himself in an environment that fuels both his creative work and his lifestyle. Living in such a remote and scenic region allows him to spend extensive time outdoors—camping, hiking, and chasing light across some of the most striking mountain terrain in the West.
For those who live in the western and northwestern United States, there’s an ingrained “campfire mindset”—an understanding that while campfires are central to the outdoor experience, they come with real responsibility. Bunting is deeply aware of the ever-present wildfire risk, which can exist nearly year-round depending on conditions. To him, campfire safety is never optional; it’s something to be evaluated carefully every single time. This awareness plays a central role in how he approaches overnight trips and ultimately led him to adopt the PACKFIRE.
Following a winter with low snowfall, Bunting encountered especially dry conditions and early-season wildfires near his home. Preparing for a camping trip under these circumstances required heightened caution. Bringing the PACKFIRE along provided him with peace of mind, allowing him to safely enjoy a campfire without increasing risk to the surrounding environment.
He found the PACKFIRE easy to transport, packing it down efficiently and carrying it right to the river’s edge where he set up camp. The quick and simple setup meant he had a fire going within minutes. The fire burned clean and hot, producing minimal ash, and allowed him to safely let it burn out before heading back to camp after sunset.
Having used other portable fire pits in the past, Bunting notes that few compare in both functionality and portability. The PACKFIRE’s design encourages users to bring it into more remote and visually stunning locations—places that might otherwise be inaccessible with traditional fire setups.
For Bunting, a campfire—when done correctly and responsibly—transforms any outdoor experience. It adds warmth, atmosphere, and a sense of connection to the environment. With the PACKFIRE, he believes it’s possible to enjoy that experience fully without compromising the landscape, the adventure, or the safety of those around it.
