Campfire
Install your own group chat system with @mentions, DMs, and mobile support. One-time purchase, no monthly fees. Includes full source code for customization.
Technical Profile & Specs
verified 2026-11-07
- Cost
- $0 / forever (Open Source)
- License
- Open Source
- Hosting Model
- Self-host (your server)
- Platforms
- webself-hosteddocker to self-host
- Installation
- Clone https://github.com/basecamp/once-campfire or deploy with Docker Compose
- Operational Setup
- Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
- Where Your Data Lives
- All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
- The Catch / Trade-off
- Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Campsite.
Replaces 4 paid apps
up to $60/mo ($720/yr) in subscriptions
Campfire FAQ
Common questions
Is Campfire free and open source?+
Campfire is an open-source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on self-host. Install your own group chat system with @mentions, DMs, and mobile support. One-time purchase, no monthly fees. Includes full source code for customization.
What paid software does Campfire replace?+
Campfire serves as a free replacement for 4 paid SaaS applications: Campsite, Chanty, Slack, Zoho Cliq, saving up to $60/month ($720/year) in subscription bills.
How do you install and set up Campfire?+
Installation: Clone https://github.com/basecamp/once-campfire or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup notes: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
What is the catch or trade-off with Campfire?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Campsite.