25 Best Campfire Guitar Songs (With Tabs + Videos)
The campfire singing tradition has been around for centuries now. It’s a wholesome activity that brings people closer and promotes creativity, especially among young children.
Performing campfire guitar songs is one way to brighten your next camping trip. If you don’t have any ideas on which songs to play, we got you!
Whether you plan on serenading a loved one or spending quality time with friends and family, here are some of the most soothing and feel-good songs you can perform during campfire gatherings. With no delay, let’s get our guitars and strike those strings!
“Wonderwall” by Oasis
The mellow acoustic rhythm in the original track inspired us to begin the list with Oasis’ Wonderwall. Apart from its brisk but calming tune, this song’s message is one thing we love about it.
This 90s hit by the famous English rock band depicts the struggle and hope from the monologue of a person addressing an imaginary friend.
The lyrics from the song that stuck with me were: “You’re gonna be the one that saves me, and after all, you’re my wonderwall.” Those lines could sound as sweet as telling someone, “I need you in my life.” We couldn’t agree more!
There’s also a controversial rumor surrounding the 25-year-old song, to which the lead vocalist of the rock band responded as fake. In 2002, Noel Gallagher denied the rumors that the song was for his ex-wife through a BBC Radio 2 interview.
| Genre | Alternative/Indie/Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | Wonderwall Tabs |
“Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show (Popularized by Darius Rucker)
If you’re a country music fan, you’ve probably heard about this 2004 hit by the Grammy-winning band Old Crow Medicine Show. The song tells of the journey and excitement of meeting a lover.
Meanwhile, Darius Rucker popularized this upbeat track in 2013. Rucker’s Wagon Wheel version became a huge success, and it won the Grammy Award for Best Country Solo Performance later in 2014.
But did you know that Bob Dylan was the song’s original composer? The American songwriter wrote the song in 1973 but didn’t officially release it.
Interestingly, playing the song on acoustic guitar is relatively easy, so you shouldn’t miss this one on your next campfire sesh!
| Genre | Folk/Country |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Wagon Wheel Tabs |
“Horse with No Name” by America
This 1970s hitmaker from rock band America is a country rock classic that takes us on a hot journey on a sandy desert.
Despite its evocative lyrics, the entirety of Horse with No Name is a metaphor for something that serves as one’s escape in this dreary life, to which harsh conditions are comparable to that of a desert.
The song features a cordial blend of acoustic and bass. Together with its elaborate storytelling, the piece is perfect for playing under a moonlit night, by the warmth of a blazing bonfire.
| Genre | Rock/Country Rock/Folk Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Horse with No Name Tabs |
“Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
An intriguing song about reminiscing precious moments with a loved one, to which Van Morrison referred to as the brown-eyed girl, the 1967 hit is an ageless song still popular nowadays!
I know you’re also curious about who the Irish artist drew inspiration from for this song. Speculations are that the brown-eyed girl in the song was a local from Derrygonnelly that the singer-songwriter went out with.
However, the singer didn’t confirm the rumors. He even considers the masterpiece as one of his least favorites among all his creations.
A song that gives us feelings of nostalgia and reminiscence of young love, Brown Eyed Girl is a campfire song you’ll enjoy performing with friends or loved ones.
| Genre | Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Acoustic/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | Brown Eyed Girl Tabs |
“Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash
Ring of Fire is American singer Johnny Cash’s iconic hit. The feel-good country song released in 1963 is notable for its phenomenal mariachi horns accompaniment, which served as its trademark. Listening to the intro, we can instantly tell it’s Ring of Fire!
With its groovy tune, Johnny Cash tells a story about falling in love with this hitmaker. He compared falling in love with falling deep into a ring of fire that only burns brighter once you get caught. Apart from its meaningful imagery, the song has an interesting story too.
Did you know that singer-songwriter June Carter-Cash, also Johnny’s wife, is one of the song’s co-writers? The two aren’t a thing during the song’s making—it’s not until five years later that the couple married and eventually had a son who also became a musician.
| Genre | Country/Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric/Acoustic Bass |
| Tabs | Ring of Fire Tabs |
“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Sweet Home Alabama is that widely-known country rock song that everyone knows by heart.
Judging from the lyrics, you’ll probably think it’s just a song about coming home to the humid-subtropical state—but there’s more to this 70s hit.
While the song is upbeat and funky, its intriguing lyrics sparked a controversy involving the band’s lead singer Ronnie Van Zant and Canadian-American singer Neil Young. Ronnie wrote some lines of the song as a response to the latter’s remarks about the South’s racist past in two of his songs.
Nonetheless, this classic is a lively song you can play effortlessly on the guitar. Check out the tabs below for reference.
| Genre | Country Rock/Blues Rock |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Electric Bass/Distortion |
| Tabs | Sweet Home Alabama Tabs |
“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan (Also Popularized by Guns N’ Roses)
Made even more popular by the 80s band Guns N’ Roses, Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door is a rock song with sentimental meaning.
The song conveys a pensive expression of overwhelming agony about a loved one’s death.
Meanwhile, Bob Dylan is the original singer-composer of the song. He wrote the music for a 1973 film.
Playing the song on acoustic guitar will enhance its emotional quality, so don’t forget to include this on your songlist.
| Genre | Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door Tabs |
“Take It Easy” by Eagles
The soothing harmony of banjos and acoustic guitar accompaniment of this 1972 single from the American rock band Eagles is why we’re so in love with it.
The song starts with playful lines about the narrator having woman problems, where it goes, “I’ve got seven women on my mind.”
Take It Easy depicts a road trip scenario, so it’s also good company for long rides.
| Genre | Pop/Country Rock/Folk |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | Take It Easy Tabs |
“Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan
In this 60s hit by none other than the award-winning American musician Bob Dylan, the lyrics tell about thought-provoking questions related to war and humanity. The songwriter was 21 years old when he released the song.
Then 21-year-old Bob Dylan talks about how people back in the day are so thoughtless about common social issues like violence.
One of the reasons why the 60s classic landed on our list is the fascinating wisdom and empathy it holds, not to mention the gentle playing of acoustic guitar and harmonica that makes the song even more endearing.
| Genre | Folk/Pop/Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Blowin’ in the Wind Tabs |
“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
The 2008 hit by American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz features a consonance of instruments like ukulele and bass, altogether making a pleasant harmony.
Aside from its heartwarming tune, the carefree vibe that the song delivers is one thing that makes it a perfect campfire song.
Some aspects of the song touch the romantic subject. For me, however, the song’s message is grounded on the remarkable Latin phrase carpe diem, which directly translates to “seize the day.”
The song tells us to stop worrying about other things and live in the moment, as our time is short to be worrying or not having fun.
| Genre | Pop/Reggae/Acoustic Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | I’m Yours Tabs |
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver
A song that describes longing in the most profound and soulful way, Leaving on a Jet Plane, is one that those away from their loved ones will surely relate to.
The 1960s classic by American singer-songwriter John Denver tells a touching story about leaving a beloved behind for his world tour. In his interview with BBC Radio, Dever said the song is very personal and close to his heart.
Leaving on a Jet Plane is one of Denver’s most celebrated hits. Ironically though, the singer died in a tragic plane crash in 1997.
| Genre | Folk/Country |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Acoustic Bass |
| Tabs | Leaving on a Jet Plane Tabs |
“Stand by Me” by Ben E. King
Don’t we all love listening to songs that overwhelm us with love?
Ben E. King’s Stand By Me is one song I can’t help but listen to on repeat. I’m sure serenading your lover with this song at a campfire is one of the most romantic things ever.
Interestingly, the song has over 400 renditions from famed artists like John Lennon and Muhammad Ali.
| Genre | Pop/R&B/Soul |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Stand by Me Tabs |
“Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley
Reading the title, you probably wonder if Three Little Birds is a children’s song. While it’s not a song for children, the lyrics of the reggae classic resonate with adults and children alike.
The reggae king Bob Marley composed this song in 1977. One of Marley’s well-known tracks, the song speaks about trusting that everything will be alright.
The song is also remarkable for its optimistic theme. Despite everything life throws at you, you can only rise, smile, and face these challenges fearlessly.
| Genre | Reggae |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Three Little Birds Tabs |
“Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day
A song from the 80s rock band popular for their hit songs 21 Guns and Wake Me Up When September Ends, Good Riddance is another song from the American rock band that you should include in your list. Here’s why:
Life will always be unpredictable, and death comes like an unexpected guest, but it’s not an excuse for us to cower in fear.
If you’re looking for an inspiring song to share that encourages you to live life boldly despite the hindrances you may encounter, this one’s the answer.
| Genre | Alternative/Indie |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Time of Your Life (Good Riddance) Tabs |
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
If you’re more on the somber side, you should try playing Pink Floyd’s haunting track about loneliness and refusal to accept reality. Pink Floyd released the song as the title track of their 1975 album.
Wish You Were Here is a song about their former frontman, Syd Barrett, who struggled with drug abuse.
| Genre | Progressive Rock/Pop |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Wish You Were Here Tabs |
“Yellow Submarine” by The Beatles
Yellow Submarine, a song by the famous English rock band The Beatles, narrates the story of a mariner who lived in the land of submarines. The Beatles released the song in 1966 as part of their seventh studio album, Revolver.
Many believe the song is a metaphor for a psychedelic drug, but the band members denied the allegations. According to Paul McCartney, who wrote the song with John Lennon, the track is nothing but a cheerful children’s song.
The unique storytelling style of the song is one reason why it’s a delightful campfire song.
| Genre | Alternative/Indie/Pop/Psychedelic Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | Yellow Submarine Tabs |
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles
The sad but touching story behind the successful 1968 single by the Beatles is one reason why it’s on our list.
A pop rock ballad that Paul Mccartney wrote as a dedication to John Lennon’s son, Julian, Hey Jude, is a song about not losing hope while dealing with life’s unexpected turns.
Around that time, John Lennon was in the heat of his divorce from his first wife, Cynthia.
Paul, who feels sorry for the couple’s son, made the song to console young Julian, who was only five years old during his parents’ split.
| Genre | Pop Rock/Folk |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | Hey Jude Tabs |
“Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty
American musical TomPetty released the pop rock song in 1989, featuring a gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment we’re obsessed with.
Apart from its pleasing tune, the message behind the lyrics is quite heartbreaking, so if you’re feeling sappy or going through a breakup, this is a song you can relate to.
In my perspective, the song is about a boy who just ended a romantic relationship. He thinks the breakup didn’t matter but eventually regrets ending things with his girl.
| Genre | Rock/Pop Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Bass/Distortion |
| Tabs | Free Fallin’ Tabs |
“American Pie” by Don McLean
Don McLean produced the song in 1971. The chart-topper is a wonderful masterpiece that tells different experiences revolving around politics, religion, and music.
All in all, the song’s context pertains to changes that the narrator witnessed around that time. Listening to the song brings back memories of youth, so it’s an excellent idea to play this around the campfire while reminiscing moments from the good old days.
| Genre | Folk Rock/Alternative/Indie |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | American Pie |
“House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals
American rock band, The Animals, released the song in the 1960s. Featuring Eric Burdon’s fascinating vocal range, the song is brimming with so much emotion, adding up to the depressing mood that the lyrics impart.
The captivating introductory guitar chords of the song are unforgettable. Thankfully, you can learn how to play it by referring to the beginner-friendly tabs on this table.
| Genre | Rock/Blues Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | House of the Rising Sun Tabs |
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
A song about frustration and heartbreak, Have You Ever Seen the Rain is a track from Creedence Clearwater Revival’s 1972 album. However, the band initially released the song as a single in 1971.
Tom Fogerty’s departure from the group in 1971 inspired the iconic hit that reached Billboard’s Hot 100 singles shortly after its release.
| Genre | Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | Have You Ever Seen the Rain? Tabs |
“Country Roads, Take Me Home” by John Denver
Country Roads, Take Me Home is a heartfelt ode to one’s hometown, scenic landscapes, and the vibrant views along the country roads. This 1971 John Denver song is one of those catchy country ballads we can’t get out of our heads.
A nostalgic song about reminiscing memories of homecoming and pleasant road trips, Country Roads, Take Me Home is a song that will sound satisfying on both acoustic and electric guitars. Check out the tabs below, and don’t forget to play the song on your next camping trip!
Ironically, neither John Denver nor the writers of this 70s hit aren’t from West Virginia, which the song mentions.
| Genre | Country |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | Country Roads, Take Me Home Tabs |
“The Weight” by The Band
This 1968 song from The Band is known for referencing Biblical characters.
Despite the Biblical allusion, the song’s message doesn’t bear much religious significance.
That said, The Weight tells the journey of a pilgrim who, during his travels, faces temptations, burdens, and unexpected encounters—thus, the title The Weight.
The track is one of the rock band’s most successful songs of all time.
| Genre | Rock/Classic Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Electric Bass |
| Tabs | The Weight Tabs |
“No Woman, No Cry” by Bob Marley
When I first read the song’s title, I thought, “The song is probably about how a man’s life is better without a woman.”, but I was wrong. Curious, I listened to the song, and what a wholesome experience it was!
Looking closer at the lyrics, we can conclude that this reggae hit is more than just its perplexing title. The comforting lines of the song tell about a woman and how she should not cry as everything will be alright.
The song also references a housing location in Jamaica where the Reggae King grew up.
| Genre | Reggae |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | No Woman, No Cry tabs |
“You’ve Got a Friend” by James Taylor
Closing our campfire song recommendations list is James Taylor’s 1971 rendition of Carole King’s You’ve Got a Friend.
The song features a soft, melodic playing of the acoustic guitar accompaniment. In addition to the promising guitar sounds, the soft rattles of the cabasa and the tapping sound from the congo altogether make this masterpiece pleasant to the ears.
Apart from its promising instrumentals, James Taylor’s warm baritone and the song’s meaningful lyrics are so satisfying and heartfelt that I can’t stop listening to them. Even to this day, listening to the reassuring lines makes me feel overly sentimental. Having a supportive friend that you can always count on is indeed lovely.
| Genre | Rock/Soft Rock/Pop |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | You’ve Got a Friend Tabs |
