Back in the 70's, firecraft was the first and most important skill that the "National Leadership School " taught, as a small campfire was the primary way that breakfast and supper were cooked. Regardless of whether it was pouring rain or snowing heavily, we always managed to get a fire going. The trick was finding dry tinder, and at least partially dry kindling. If you know where to camp, and then where to look for tinder and kindling, a modest fire is always doable (that is in my experience). It's still the most important thing that I took away from my NOLS experience.
The only time we were allowed to use our Optimus 111 stoves was when we were above tree-line.
And forget (back then) trying to use stove fuel, to start a campfire at any time... bad, bad puppy!