Use the top-down method, then keep the remaining fuel off the ground, covered above and ventilated at the sides.
The top-down method
Put larger logs on the bottom, smaller ones across them, six to eight kindling sticks on top and one firelighter inside the kindling. Light the firelighter and let the fire burn downward.
Give it air early
Leave air controls open until the fire and flue are warm, normally ten to fifteen minutes.
The four storage rules
Off the ground. Open sides. A roof that sheds rain. Sun and wind where possible.
What not to do
Do not wrap the whole stack to the ground with a tarpaulin; it traps moisture. Cover the top while leaving airflow.