TL;DR
- Campfire requires existing user invitations despite global app availability
- Flare feature enables real-time raid coordination with local players
- Access the app through Pokemon Go’s interface if you have the Campfire icon
- Build your friend list strategically to increase invitation opportunities
- Use direct messaging to coordinate beyond basic in-game communication

Niantic’s Campfire represents a revolutionary social platform designed specifically for augmented reality gaming communities. This innovative application serves as a centralized hub that connects players across multiple Niantic titles, with Pokemon Go being the primary integration point.
For dedicated Pokemon trainers seeking to maximize their gaming experience, Campfire provides essential tools that extend far beyond the limitations of the base Pokemon Go application. The platform bridges critical communication gaps that have long frustrated the player community.
Unlike traditional social apps, Campfire maintains the location-based gameplay philosophy while adding sophisticated coordination features. This creates a unique hybrid experience that enhances real-world interactions through digital tools.
Campfire introduces several game-changing features that transform how Pokemon Go players interact and coordinate. The direct messaging system enables private conversations with friends, overcoming the complete absence of in-game chat functionality.
The groundbreaking “flare” feature allows trainers to signal their intent to participate in nearby raids. This visual alert system notifies other Campfire users in your vicinity, dramatically increasing raid participation success rates. Strategic flare usage can mean the difference between solo attempts and coordinated group assaults on powerful raid bosses.

Beyond raid coordination, Campfire enhances friendship mechanics by providing additional interaction methods. These sustained engagements accelerate friendship level progression, leading to more powerful attack bonuses during gym battles and trades.
How do you get a Campfire invite in Pokemon Go?
Despite Niantic’s official global rollout announcement, Campfire maintains an exclusive invitation-based access model. The application may be downloadable from official app stores, but functional access remains restricted to invited users only.
When attempting to log into Campfire, players encounter multiple authentication options including email, Google accounts, and Facebook integration. However, after completing the login process, a critical barrier appears: the invitation requirement notification.
The current access workflow involves identifying Pokemon Go players who already possess Campfire privileges. These established users display a distinctive Campfire icon positioned on the right side of their game interface. Tapping this icon grants them direct app access and, importantly, the ability to extend invitations to friends on their Pokemon Go friend list.
Strategic friend list management becomes crucial for gaining Campfire access. Prioritize adding active local players and participants from successful raid groups, as these individuals are more likely to have invitation capabilities.
Once you secure Campfire access through invitation, implement these professional strategies to maximize your social gaming experience. Time your flare activations 10-15 minutes before raid hatch times to maximize local player visibility and coordination.
Avoid the common mistake of activating flares too late or in areas with minimal player density. Instead, focus on high-traffic locations like popular parks, shopping centers, or university campuses during peak activity hours.
Develop a consistent communication rhythm with your Campfire contacts. Regular check-ins and raid planning sessions build stronger community bonds and increase future coordination success rates.
For advanced optimization, coordinate flare usage across multiple nearby gyms to create raid circuits. This approach enables efficient multi-raid sessions that maximize reward acquisition within limited time windows.
Campfire’s global expansion coincides with Niantic’s strategic shift toward local gameplay emphasis. The platform serves as a bridge for players adjusting to remote raid pass changes, providing alternative coordination methods despite increased costs and participation limits.
Action Checklist
- Identify active Pokemon Go friends with Campfire icon access
- Request invitation through in-game friend messaging system
- Download Campfire app and authenticate using preferred method
- Practice flare activation 15 minutes before raid starts
- Build local contact network through coordinated raid participation
No reproduction without permission:Game Guides Online » What is Campfire, the new Pokemon Go app? Master Niantic's Campfire app: Get invites, use flares, and enhance your Pokemon Go social experience
