I recently was camping in the backcountry at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. I discovered that no fires that made sparks were permitted, I asked the Ranger about Propane cooking and a BBQ and was told it was ok. I had read this thread and saw a unit similar to the one shown by DesertDude for sale at Sportsman's Warehouse. The cost was a lot more but I needed it in a hurry. It was easy to set up and it put out a fair amount of heat, it was pretty easy on propane. It was used mostly for the effect of a campfire where none could be had, even the Ranger who came by to check out the campsite was impressed. I guess what I wanted to say is that this item is a good idea for any location that you cannot have a fire that produces sparks.