Napoleon Riverside 42: a log fire for your patio wall
The Napoleon Riverside 42 is an outdoor gas fireplace built into a patio wall. Its viewing opening is about 42 inches wide and 33 inches tall. The fire has a traditional log look, with a simple frame that leaves the view open. It is built to stay outdoors, but the interior should be protected from standing water and debris when not in use.
Order it for natural gas or propane. It sits outside, so it needs no vent pipe at all. It puts out up to 60,000 BTU, enough to warm a patio on a cool night. It comes with an external control panel and a finishing flange, the rim around the opening. On the page you pick the log set: oak, birch, or split oak. Optional back panels change the look behind the fire. You can also choose a stainless steel weather cover, and more on the page. Napoleon backs it with its President’s Limited Lifetime Warranty. Want a smaller fire? See the Napoleon Riverside 36 gas fireplace. The Napoleon Riverside 42 ships free from My Cozy Outdoors with No Sales Tax (except WY) and the full manufacturer warranty.
FAQ
Can the Riverside 42 get wet or stay outside year-round?
Yes — the RSS42NE is engineered as a true outdoor gas fireplace, built to live outdoors in the weather. Napoleon still recommends protecting the interior from standing water and debris in the off-season, per the manual’s care guidance.
Does the Riverside 42 need a chimney or venting?
No venting system is required — as an outdoor-only appliance it exhausts directly to open air. That also means it must never be installed indoors or in an enclosed room.
How much heat does the Riverside 42 put out on a patio?
Up to 60,000 BTU through its 42.19 x 33.06 in opening — substantial radiant warmth that extends patio evenings well into the shoulder seasons.
Can you burn wood in the Riverside 42?
No — it is a dedicated gas appliance. Wood, charcoal, or any solid fuel would damage the burner system and void the warranty; the fire comes from the gas burner and its media only.
Can you roast marshmallows over the Riverside 42?
It isn’t designed as a cooking appliance — drips and sugar can foul the burner and media. For s’mores nights, a fire pit designed for the job is the better tool; think of the Riverside as ambiance and warmth.
What framing does the Riverside 42 need outdoors?
A minimum opening of 49 in wide x 41.50 in high x 19.56 in deep in your outdoor structure — a far simpler build than a full masonry outdoor fireplace, which is most of its cost advantage.
What warranty covers the Riverside 42?
Napoleon’s President’s Limited Lifetime Warranty — unusual for an outdoor unit — and buying from us as an authorized dealer keeps that factory coverage fully intact.